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Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

May 12th, 2010

 

Chairman Cohrs called to order at 4:10pm.  All Board members were in attendance.  No agenda was distributed.

 

Secretary’s Report:

The minutes of the 4/14/10 Meeting were approved – [Moved by Pat, seconded by Susanne.]

 

Treasurer’s Report:

Rich distributed the latest Cash Flow Projection, with actual numbers through April, 2010.  There was discussion about the CD due to mature in early June.  It is now earning 2.5%, and the best new alternatives are a 5 year term for only 2.25%, or a 1 year term earning 1.25%.  This compares to our Money Market account which earns about 1%.  Since the MM rate was almost equivalent to a 1 year CD, it was decided to rollover the CD into our MM account and wait to see what our needs dictate.  [This was agreed by consensus.]  It was also decided that if the Board did not meet by the time of next CD’s maturity (7/22), we would adopt the same strategy.  The Treasurer’s report was approved.  [Moved by Susanne; seconded by Mo].

 

Old Business:

Re:  BOARDWALK REPAIRS:  It was reported that the repairs have been completed, and that the anticipated sandblasting is soon to be done; Mo contacted our contractor to determine the additional cost to sandblast the canopy, and indicated that the added cost would be $300.  That amount was within the previous authorization, and Mo was re-authorized to have it accomplished.  Mo also agreed to follow-up and have any boards replaced that the sandblasting reveals; Eddy will do the painting.

 

RE:  GATE REPAIRS – The mesh is now removed, and there are “warning” signs on both sides of the gate.  It is deemed “fixed”.

 

RE:  2010-2011 Budget & Capital Projects – Denis and Fred went to the scheduled meeting, and had a short time in front of the Commissioners.  In general, there were positive comments, and although the Commissioners indicated that they anticipated less revenue due to less value on the property; they generally felt that our desire to “improve the neighborhood” was laudable.

 

RE:  The injury in the park – Again, there was no new information available.

 

New Business:

1.  Denis received notification today that the drinking fountain is leaking water – Fred has a plumber coming out tomorrow.

 

2.  Fred contacted the county about possible trash pick-up them.  Fred says that, since the county doesn’t have a park nearby (Sawgrass is the closest), they couldn’t help us.  They suggested that we hire day labor.

 

3.  Rich reported that our water bill shows decreasing consumption (related to the park area), and there was speculation as to why.  There was also concern expressed over the health of the trees.  Per Susanne, Omni Irrigation knows about all this, and will service (and will bill us) when called.  Susanne will give their number to Denis, and he will follow-up.  Per Mo, much of this work is already a part of BeMac’s contract.  It was agreed that we should review the tasks in detail, to be sure we know who’s doing what, and how all the equipment, switches, levers, etc. work.  Mo is taking the lead on this.  After they confirm what they’re doing, we can ask specific questions about particular aspects of the work:   Examples are fertilizing requirements and watering responsibilities.  But, per Susanne, Omni is really a sub-contractor of BeMac.  Mo will follow up with BeMac.

 

4.  There was follow-up regarding the County’s desire that we ask for “new” contracts every year for our long-time service providers.  It is the general consensus that this would invite price increases.  As a result, Mo got bids from competitors (based on BeMac’s scope of work) of $5,310 and $6,130.  These amounts compare to $5,700 from BeMac.  [There is also the issue of who picks up the trash.]  All of this remains under review, pending the receipt of more information.

 

5.  There was a report regarding a possible switch of our legal notice publication to Gulf Coast Business Review.  The consensus of the Board was to stick with St. Pete Times.

 

6.  It was reported that some trees need trimming, and that the homeowners’ association involved wouldn’t take ownership of them.  About 6 trees are involved, and Susanne agreed to contact Phil’s tree service (who did previous trimming at a good price per tree).

 

Committee Reports:

 

1.  Landscape – The Board is considering a “special” budget to obtain some new plantings, if BeMac isn’t going to be involved.

 

2.  Street Lighting – No problems reported.

 

3.  Friends of the Park – A member of the neighborhood was suggested as a prospect to take on this responsibility.  The Board is taking this idea under consideration.

 

There were No Public Comments.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 4:58pm.  [Moved by Mo, seconded by Susanne].  The Next Meeting was scheduled for July 14th at 4:00pm.

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

April 14th, 2010

 

Chairman Cohrs called to order at 4:08pm.  All Board members were in attendance, except Susanne.  An agenda was distributed.

 

Secretary’s Report:

The minutes of the 3/17/10 Meeting were approved – [Moved by Fred, seconded by Mo.]

 

Treasurer’s Report:

Rich distributed the latest Cash Flow Projection, with actual numbers through March, 2010.  The deposit to Eddie (for work on the boardwalk - about $2.5K) was noted.  It was also noted that utility costs were higher, probably based on more sunlight due to the institution daylight savings time.  A page on our bank funds was included in the Treasurer’s packet, and it was noted that one CD was due to renew in April, and two more CDs were due to renew in June.  There was some discussion over options, and a possible rate improvement with the now-separate CDs.  There was a motion to transfer the about-to-renew (April) CD into our Synovus Bank money market account with further to occur at our next meeting.  This motion was approved.  [Moved by Denis; seconded by Fred.]

 

Rich reported that Denis had sent a letter to the County and had filed our annual report with the state of Florida.  The Treasurer’s report was approved.  [Moved by Pat; seconded by Mo.].

 

Old Business:  [This was taken “out of order”.]

RE:  Boardwalk repairs - Several Board members had walked Eddie’s repairs.  They reported that no screws are now above the board levels.  Eddie was been paid in full for these repairs.  It was agreed that the authorized sandblasting should now be done.  Denis had tried to find an alternative company (for the sandblasting), but could not find anyone who was interested in doing the project (regardless of price).  Bayside Sandblasting had submitted a bid, which had been previously approved, but did not include sandblasting the canopy.  Mo agreed to re-contact them to see if they would include that in their price.  Mo agreed to coordinate with Eddy so the staining would quickly follow the sandblasting.

 

RE:  GATE REPAIRS – There was lots of discussion on how to “fix” the gate so no swinging can happen, but no effective solutions were presented.  Denis agreed to re-contact the company who repaired the gate to ask for an adjustment to the bill since the wire didn’t work as expected; plus, he will ask for a breakdown of the bill’s specifics.  [Denis has already prepared a letter notifying them of the problem – the newly-installed wire grate became a hazard because of how it was installed.]

 

RE:  2010-2011 Budget & Capital Projects - Some initial costs are being gathered for the bike path project, but we probably don’t yet have enough data to reasonably request (and justify) a millage increase.  Denis reported his visit to a neighborhood homeowners association (Vizcaya) annual meeting, and when he brought up the bike path idea, it was very favorably received.  Denis has met with an engineering firm, made an additional request from Fred Bullard, and will go to the County courthouse to try to get copies of the initial plans for the neighborhood.  Fred’s present recollection is that there is plenty of room (in terms of the County’s easement) to do a “standard” 8’ wide bike path.  Denis “drove” the neighborhood with an engineering firm (there is some encroachment by a few homeowners and some light poles would have to be moved; but very little site grading required) and the first quoted price was pretty high.  There will be some initial costs connected with further research – plan copies, etc.  A motion was approved to authorize such costs, up to $3K.  [Fred moves; Rich seconds]  Also mentioned at the Vizcaya meeting was a dog park.  Denis said that he will indicate to the County (during the budget process) that we have some major capital projects in mind, and that we will be having greater money needs in the next year or two.

 

RE:  The injury in the park – There was no new information available.

 

New Business:

1.  Mo asked if we can arrange for trash pick-up (in the mangroves as well as the public areas), at least once per month.  Someone wondered if this could be the County’s responsibility?  Fred agreed to call the head of the County’s park service to see who could (or would) do the clean-up, and whether there would be a cost to us.

 

2.  There was a question about how to address the County’s desire that we ask for “new” contracts every year for our long-time service providers.  It is the general consensus that this would invite price increases.  With BeMac, for example, who does our landscaping (at $5,700 per month), under the present contract, we have to let them know 30 days prior to expiration that we’re renewing.  It was suggested that we take their “scope of work” and (at least) ask what the cost of that scope of work might be from an alternative company (or companies) – Mo agreed to accomplish this, just to see if BeMac is ‘in the ballpark’ in terms of price.  A second example is the maintenance of the fountain – we have had difficulty with this in terms of even finding someone else to do the work.  The present contract costs $80 every three months, and this was deemed “too minimal” to worry about.  A third example was water management services for the ponds, presently provided by American Ecosystems.  Their charge is $85 per month, and this was also deemed “minimal”.  Florida Power is our last “contract”, and it was noted that we already hired a consultant and got this contract reduced.  There was a question as to whether or not water provided by Pinellas County is a “contract”.

 

Committee Reports:

1.  Landscape – There was no new report.  No report.

2.  Street Lighting – There was no new report.  No report.

3.  Friends of the Park – Pat reported that she had tried to reach Chris Merritt to see if Chris had any names which we could use to institute the “friends” group.

 

There were No Public Comments.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:30pm.

The Next Meeting was scheduled for May 12th at 4:00pm (which is the day after the County’s Budget meeting)

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

March 17th, 2010

Chairman Cohrs called the meeting to order at 4:05pm.  All Board members were in attendance except Susanne, who was in Tallahassee.  An agenda was distributed.

 

Secretary’s Report:

There was a correction noted in the February 17, 2010 minutes:  the 990 tax form had been manually filed, as opposed to having been electronically filed.  After this correction was made, Pat moved that the minutes be approved.  Mo seconded the motion, and the minutes were unanimously approved.

 

Treasurer’s Report:

Rich distributed the latest Cash Flow Projection, showing actual figures through February and projected figures through year-end.  A few recently-paid bills were noted.  Rich indicated that the annual report was due to be filed with the State of Florida, and he suggested that Denis become the Registered Agent.  Denis agreed.  The repair bill for the fencing gate (plus the addition of some grating) was noted at $580.  There was next a motion to approve the bill for the lighting repairs in the median.  [Moved by Fred; seconded by Pat, and approved.]  The cost to service the water fountains was noted at $240.  It was reported that Denis and Rich had met with Barry Lupiani (a Budget Liaison Officer with the County).  The County had sent out guidelines indicating that they would permit no increase in the newly-reduced millage rate [.562].  They further indicated that we should plan on an approximate 12% decrease in revenue based on lowered property values.  They advised that the new budget should be within those guidelines.  In other words, for the upcoming year, there would be approximately $135K revenues from tax collections.  The Budget proposal was then distributed, in the form which had been emailed to Mr. Lupiani the previous Friday.  A cover letter and an organizational chart had been included, and Denis stated that he would email copies of that letter to the Board.  Rich then distributed a second sheet showing a 5 year cash-flow projection which assumed no millage rate increase for the five year period.  This projection would exhaust all our reserves within the five year period.  Fred noted that June 30th is the date on which the County’s tax assessor will actually publish adjusted property values, so no final figures for the purpose of determining actual revenues based on the millage rate will be available until then.  The Treasurer’s Report was approved.  [Mo moved and Pat seconded.]

 

New Business:

1.  Susanne had wanted clarification that approval had been previously given to fertilize the ten trees around the pond at $40 each.  This was confirmed to have been approved, and Bob agreed to report that to Susanne.

 

2.  There was a discussion of possible Capital Projects which the Board might seek to promote.  A Bike and Walking Path around the entire neighborhood was proposed.  Concrete was suggested instead of asphalt, for durability, although concrete would cost 25-35% more when constructed.  Cost estimates ranged between $300 & 400K to complete.  Denis reported that he had asked Fred Bullard to search his old records in an attempt to find the original engineering plans for Feather Sound Drive, thereby (possibly) saving the cost of new plans.  It was asked whether grant money might be available to help subsidize the cost, and also whether or not the Pinellas Trail “authority” might have any money or expertise that could be valuable in researching this project.  There was discussion about how to best “poll” the residents about their interest in this idea.  Denis agreed to put together a survey document, and distribute it to the Board for their review.  Fred Petty indicated that their might be a statutory alternative which permits a non-ad valorum tax (which would enable the District’s taxpayers to pay a flat amount for a year or two).  It was noted that the average home in the FS neighborhood has less than $100 per year earmarked for projects in the neighborhood.  A second Capital Project was a racketball court.  This would be very low maintenance and would not require a big “footprint.  Denis estimated that this would cost approximately $50K.  A location near the basketball court seemed most likely.  A third Capital Project was a Dog Park.  In addition, there was brief discussion about the area around the “lake” (i.e. the “borrow pit”).  It was suggested that a canoe launch be provided, and someone indicated that the County had expressed an interest in this already.  The last idea was to try to find a neighborhood planner to advise us on neighborhood improvements.  There will be more input on Capital Projects at future meetings.

 

Old Business:

1.  Regarding:  Sand blasting/Boardwalk repairs – It could not be confirmed whether this work was “in progress”.  It was deferred for confirmation.

 

2.  Fred reported on the recent water fountain repairs in detail.  Four companies had been contacted, but none in the county fountains which Fred found actually use cooled water.  It would cost about $10K to replace (if and when we need to do that) both fountains without cold water.  If cold water was provided, there would be $4K in additional cost.  Fred reported that both fountains were working now, but that he had turned off the electricity, so the water is not being cooled.  It was suggested that $10K be ear-marked in our reserves for eventual replacement purposes.

 

3.  Regarding the injury to a child in the recreation area, Denis reported that he’s heard nothing further from the child’s parents’ law firm, or from the insurance company.  The gate repairs are complete, as previously noted.  Possible text for a sign to be placed on the gate to discourage the behavior which is suspected of causing the gate to break in the first place was discussed.

 

Committee Reports:

1.  Landscape – There was no new report.

2.  Street Lighting – There was no new report.

3.  Friends of the Park – There was no new report.

 

There were No Public Comments.  [A tour of the community, especially the park, took place after the meeting.]

 

The meeting was adjourned at 5:18pm. [Mo moved, and Bob seconded.]

The Next Meeting was scheduled for April 14th at 4:00pm.

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

February 17th, 2010

 

Chairman Cohrs called the meeting to order at 4:06pm.  All Board members were in attendance except Fred Petty, who arrived later in the meeting.  This was the first meeting held at the Feather Sound Country Club.  Andy Crowe, the Club’s General Manager was also in attendance as a guest.  An agenda was distributed.

 

Secretary’s Report:

Mo moved to approve the minutes of the January 2010 meeting as written; Susanne seconded, and the minutes were approved.

 

Treasurer’s Report:

Rich reported that the District’s Tax Return Form 990 had been filed in a timely fashion.  This action was officially approved (Susanne moved; Pat seconded) Rich had previously distributed (via email) the Auditor’s report of Financial Statements, for the Board’s reference only.  Rich distributed his usual Cash Flow Report, showing actual figures through January 2010 and projected numbers through Y-E 9/2010.  The Treasurer’s report was approved (Susanne moved; Pat seconded).

 

New Business:

1.  There had been an injury in the Recreation Area, and the entry gate needed repairs.  Denis reported first – he indicated that an email had been received by him after our last meeting, and that a 3-4 year old girl had been injured when the entry gate “fell on her” – the email indicated that the resulting injury was “somewhat serious”.  Apparently the child had been taken to the hospital and then released (Denis thought she might have stayed in the hospital one night).  Denis further reported that, due to concern over the child’s well-being, he had left a phone message with the parents trying to find out about the girl’s status.  No return call was received by Denis.  Soon thereafter, Denis reported the incident to our insurance company, and he also spoke with the County’s risk management department.  The insurance company was scheduled to view the area today (the day of this meeting).  Denis indicated that he took some photos shortly after the incident (these photos apparently showed the entry gate lashed up against fence; hinges still broken).  It was reported that the old hinges had been removed, and new ”special” hinges have been ordered as replacements.  It has also been recommended that wire mesh be inserted in the slots in the gate so people can no longer stand on the gate and swing on it.  [There was speculation that this type of conduct (by person or persons unknown) is the likely cause of the gate’s failure.]  Denis finally reported that the Board has received a initial letter from the attorney for the parents, and that he was providing a written response.  There was additional discussion about the recent history regarding the status of the gate (such as, when the hinge (or hinges) might have been broken; whether or not there had been a repair using rope, and if so, when that had occurred).  Susanne reported that the fence company (USA) originally had installed 2 hinges, but when the gate had previously broken, they had re-installed 4 hinges.  The broken (but removed) hinges have been retained, and the new hinges were scheduled to be installed this week.  It was the consensus of the Board that there was no reason (at this point) to report the incident to the insurance carrier of our D&O policy.

 

2.  The recent fish kill – It was reported that residents were pretty much taking care of their own ponds, but then the “community” pond near the entrance to Feather Sound on Ulmerton Road, and its connected streams throughout the neighborhood ended up with dead fish.  Sunshine Landscapers will be contacted to clean up, and it was anticipated that this would be done at minimal cost.

 

3.  Denis Introduced Andy Crowe, the General Manager for FSCC (and our host for this meeting).  Denis indicated that the Club had some beautification plans in process, and Andy reported on some of the details:  There had been discussion regarding turf grass reduction, and contact with Southwest Florida Water Management District led to contact with the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (which has a sea grass recovery project).  They (the combined organizations – and maybe the City of Largo) are trying to clean up any discharge from water treatment facilities in the bay.  An additional part of this project is the contemplated removal of Brazilian pepper trees (and other “invasive” plant species) along the north side of Feather Sound Drive (immediately to the west of the Audubon Complex).  This is not yet “permitted”, but it is estimated that the completion time will be sometime this fall.  The pepper trees will be removed, and a “tidal” environment will be created, resulting in salt water flowing in, and thereby preventing their reoccurrence.  Andy agreed to act as liaison with Tampa Bay Estuary people to initiate any potential coordinating efforts involving the Taxing District.  There are also plans to start to replace cedar trees with oak trees on the areas surrounding the golf course.  [In this regard, Susanne suggested that “live” oaks be planted rather than other less-hardy oak varieties.]  Andy indicated that the Club wished to “mirror” the kind of landscaping which BeMac is now doing just outside the Club entrance.  Finally, Andy expressed the Club’s desire to see the Ulmerton Road entry sign updated and re-done, including any appropriate re-landscaping and new construction to the sign’s foundation.  The Club would also like this new signage to mention the Club, as well as identify the neighborhood.  There was general agreement by the Board as to the need for updated signage, but no conclusion was reached as to how the costs might be allocated.  This topic will be re-considered in the near future.

 

4.  There was general discussion regarding the need to start preparing our upcoming Budget.  In general, the County is cutting about 15% across the board.  They have suggested that we submit a budget at the current millage rate, with an estimated 12% decrease in tax value.  A submission to a County budget liaison is due by March 12th, and this then is passed on the County administrator.  There was discussion about possible near-term and long-term projects.  Suggestions included a dog park; a hiking/biking trail; a tennis court; a nature walk; better (and consistent) signage at both ends of the neighborhood (on Ulmerton Road); and re—landscaping of the median at first right just after the main entrance median (re-landscape/trees).  These ideas, and others to be added later, were intended to enhance the value of the neighborhood as a whole.

 

5.  Fred then reported that the person who had been repairing the water fountains at the park recommended that they should be removed and replaced.  They could be replaced with non-cooling units.  Fred will continue to investigate alternatives – including outright replacement; removing the cooling equipment but keeping the present units; and repairs, and will provide cost estimates for each alternative.

 

Old Business:

1.  Regarding:  Sand blasting/Boardwalk repairs – Eddy does have the check to purchase the boards for the damaged wood replacement.  This is a three phase project (approx. $25K) – sandblasting; replace damaged boards; re-staining.  We had set up separate financial approval levels for these projects because of their “separateness” in timing and content.  A Motion to increase the “final” price to $6,500 was approved [Susanne moved; Pat seconded].  Denis agreed to verify the information on the Bayside bid, and then will move forward with them, if all information is correct.

 

Committee Reports:

1.  Landscape – Mo reported that she talked to BeMac about trimming certain palm trees – the particular homeowner’s association had refused to do it.  Denis agreed to send them a letter indicating that although we were undertaking the trimming on this occasion, the District wouldn’t take future responsibility to do it when next needed.

 

2.  Street Lighting – Mo had contacted the median lights people, and although they had given her a “two week” time frame, they, in fact, had made necessary repairs within two days.

 

3.  Friends of the Park – None

 

There were No Public Comments.

 

Denis indicated that prior to the next meeting, the Board would “tour the community” for 15 minutes.  The next meeting was scheduled for March 17th, again at Feather Sound Country Club.  We will now generally plan to meet on the “second” Wednesday of each Month”.

 

The meeting was adjourned 6:01pm [Moved by Susanne, seconded by Fred.].

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

January 13th, 2010

 

At the appointed meeting time, returning Board members Hebert, Moriarty, Pettit, Hicks and Petty were present.  New appointee Barnum was also present.  Biff Baker, retiring Board member, was in attendance as a guest.  The confirmed identity of Biff Baker’s replacement was unknown at this time.

 

Fred Petty (as Vice-Chair) called the meeting to order at 4:05pm.

 

The Board’s “Proclamation” to Biff Baker, which had been written by Rich Pettit and signed by each Board member, was read aloud and presented to Biff.

 

Prior to consideration of any Agenda items, the Board took up the issue of naming a new Chairman to replace Biff Baker.  In succession, the names of Fred Petty, Mo Barnum, Susan Hebert and Pat Moriarty were offered for nomination, but each declined to serve as Chairman.  The consensus of the Board was that Rich Pettit and Bob Hicks should continue in their respective positions as Treasurer and Secretary.  It was then confirmed that Feather Sound resident Denis Cohrs had been named by Commissioner Morroni as Biff’s replacement.  Cohrs arrived at the meeting at that point, and a discussion ensued regarding the duties of the Chairman, and whether or not the position should rotate each year.  Mo then nominated Denis, Rich seconded the Motion, and the motion carried unanimously.   Fred was nominated as Vice-Chair (moved by Susanne; seconded by Mo) and this Motion was approved unanimously.  Rich and Bob were re-appointed as Treasurer and Secretary respectively.

 

An agenda, prepared by Rich, was then distributed.

 

New “conflict of interest” forms were distributed and signed.  Biff reminded the Board that some playground equipment had been stored (without charge, as the normal “rent” for such equipment was as nominal as $10 per month) at his place of business.  The Board decided to leave the equipment there (at least on a short-term basis).  In the same context, Rich re-stated his position at Synovus Bank and noted that FSCSD funds are on deposit at that bank.  This had not been deemed a “conflict” under the Board’s COI policy, and the Board reaffirmed (by consensus) this conclusion.

 

New contact information forms were distributed and filled out and returned to Rich.  He agreed to circulate a final draft of the data for possible editing.

 

Secretary’s Report

The Minutes from the 11/18/09 Meeting were approved.  Approval moved by Fred and seconded by Susanne.

 

Treasurer’s Report

 Rich distributed his usual Cash Flow report with Actual figures through 12/09, and projected figures through September 2010 (Y-E).  Total “reserves” are projected to be approx. $1/2 million.  It was noted that Biff needed to be removed as a signer on both bank accounts (which can be done without signing new signature cards).  It was felt that there was no need to add Denis as an additional signatory.  Discussion ensued regarding some specific entry details on the Cash Flow page, mostly in response to new-member Cohrs’ questions.  Rich updated the Board on the annual audit (due 3/15/10), and the annual report.  Rich indicated that draft copies would soon be distributed electronically to the Board for review.  Rich noted that the Annual filing with the state of Florida, due by May 1st, will be filed electronically. A Motion was approved to accept the Treasurer’s Report [Moved by Susanne; seconded by Pat]

 

New Business:  Eddy’s proposal on the Boardwalk repairs had been submitted to Biff (via email) only this afternoon and its subsequent distribution to the Board (also via email) had not been completed until just prior to the meeting.  In view of past decisions by the Board on boardwalk repairs, $9,800 was approved for board replacement, and the Board also provisionally approved the sandblasting portion of the proposal (if the final figure is less than $5,000) – Biff agreed to follow-up with Eddy on the sandblasting price.  It was noted that Speillir Enterprises – who installed the original boardwalk – had been originally contacted by Biff to do “repairs”, but they had never responded to his request.  [Rich moved and Susanne seconded; Motion approved].

 

New business:  Rich introduced the “Future Projects – current and long-term planning” topic, and there was input from all Board members.  For example, should we further propose to reduce the millage rate?  Should be propose an expansion of the recreation area, especially involving the newly-donated land which is part of retention pond?  Should we initiate and develop another “long-term” project similar to the Recreation Area?  Should we (in some way) poll the residents to try to determine their ideas and concerns?Should we establish a sub-committee of the Board to deal with Long-Term Planning projects?  It was finally proposed that we add some specific time to the next Board meeting to decide how to proceed on this issue.  Rich noted that he would write an article for the FS News, and that the article would include our tribute to Biff, confirm the new officers, and show the new Facebook group link.

 

 

Old Business:  Susanne reported that the tree trimming project is done.  A question was raised about trimming 6-8 palm trees – Mo agreed to talk to the appropriate homeowner’s association to see if they’ll agree to trim them.  As a result of this question, there was some discussion about including palm trees in future tree trimming projects.  This topic will be “held” for future discussion.  Susanne indicated that the tree trimmer suggested some nutrition for 10 oak trees, to be done in March.  Motion was approved to allow Susanne to handle this up to $1,000 – [Denis moved; Fred seconded.]

 

Biff provided an update on the Recreation area boardwalk – he reported on his conversation with Eddy today, and indicated that although wet weather had held up the project, he planned to proceed this week.  He requested an advance (about $2,500) to purchase some additional materials.  Biff will instruct Eddy to contact Rich to get this “advance”.  A motion to increase the approved amount to $6K as approved.  [Susanne moved; Pat seconded.]  Biff graciously agreed to continue to informally liaison with Eddy on this project.

 

Biff reported that the gate (at the Recreation Area) is broken again.  Speculation suggested that kids who are too big are swinging on it.  The hinges and the magnetic latch need to be replaced.  USA Fence is the contact company, and Biff will locate their number.  The Board gave Biff the authority to fix the gate, up to $500.

 

The trash can key and two bulletin board kiosk keys were given to the Secretary for safekeeping.

 

Biff transferred possession of various FSCSD papers, architectural plans and other documents to Denis for safekeeping.  They will be held in Denis’ office.

 

Biff then reported on the water fountains:  the dog part is inoperable.  Also, the basketball court fountain isn’t cooling.  At Denis’ request, Fred will follow up on this.

 

Mo reported that the fountains (not the drinking variety) at the FS entrance were not working.  She agreed to call the maintenance company and discuss options – repair or replace (given their age).

 

Biff reported that 2 or 3 street lights nearby the country club are “out”.  Mo agreed to follow up on this.

 

Committee Reports:

 

Landscape Committee – As previously noted, the tree pruning project is done.  It was also reported by Mo that certain bushes are sticking out over the sidewalks, and trees are hanging down.  It was uncertain whether these were on the Church’s property or not.  Additional information will be obtained by Mo.

 

Apparently the basketball net needs to be replaced.  A Feather Sound resident contacted the County, whose representative then notified Rich.  In the past, it seems that regular players have hung their own.  Pat suggested that we try to keep track of regular basketball people so that these “regulars” can be contacted when there is a need for help.  Denis indicated that he would replace the net, and we would review how to handle this in the future.  Rich will let the resident know that a new net is forthcoming.

 

Street Light Committee –Dealt with under Old Business.

 

Friends of the Park Committee – Rich indicated that we probably need recreation area policies, and a process to deal with issues which periodically arise.  This will be part of Rich’s procedures Manual.  An outline will be sent to Denis (to “catch him up”), and the Board will review this outline at the end of the next meeting.

 

Public Comments – None.

 

Next Meeting Date – February 17, 2010, 4:00pm.  The new location was initially proposed to be at Denis’ office, but the Country Club was suggested as a possibility if it could be obtained without charge.  Denis agreed to investigate.  [The choice of the Country Club was later confirmed.]

 

The meeting was adjourned at 6:10pm.

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

November 18th, 2009

 

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:08pm.  All Board members were present except Fred Petty.

 

Secretary’s Report –

 

The Minutes from the 09/09/09 Meeting were approved.  Approval moved by Susanne; seconded by Pat.

 

Treasurer’s Report –

 

Rich distributed his usual Cash Flow report through September 2009 Y-E.  Total “reserves” are approx. ľ million.  He also provided a FY 2010 projection showing October 2009 actual numbers.  This reflected a reduced amount received from the County - $150K vs. $240K.  Utilities were noted to be a little lower for October ($2K reduction in prior bills for Utility Savers discoveries.)  Rich then provided a report of our funds in the banks – it was noted that each bank’s total is slightly over the FDIC $250K limit, but projected payments will bring them both below the level by the time of our next meeting.  Therefore, no specific action to reduce the balances was deemed necessary.  There was brief discussion on the cost for our year-end audit.  Rich confirmed the $2,500 fee, which is with our previous service-provider (and, coincidentally, a Feather Sound resident).  The Board concurred that this was reasonable, and Rich was authorized to return the engagement letter.  Motion approved to again select Jim Attkission as our auditor.  [Moved by Rich, seconded by Susanne.]  Rich then passed out the County’s follow-up to the last Audit by them– included was a new “purchasing policy” draft for our review.  In addition, Rich reported that the County Audit Department has recommended more documentation of policy and procedures.  In response to this recommendation, Rich will coordinate the collection of existing documentation into a manual and draft other documentation where needed.  A Motion was made to approve the “Purchasing Policy” [Moved by Susanne; seconded by Pat.]  A Motion was approved to accept the Treasurer’s Report.  Moved by Susanne; seconded by Pat].  [It was noted that once the “new” 2010 Board was in place, all bank account signature cards should be updated.]

 

New Business:  Eddy’s proposal on the Boardwalk repairs had been submitted to Biff (via email) only this afternoon and its subsequent distribution to the Board (also via email) had not been completed until just prior to the meeting.  In view of past decisions by the Board on boardwalk repairs, $9,800 was approved for board replacement, and the Board also provisionally approved the sandblasting portion of the proposal (if the final figure is less than $5,000) – Biff agreed to follow-up with Eddy on the sandblasting price.  It was noted that Speillir Enterprises – who installed the original boardwalk – was contacted by Biff to do “repairs”, but they never responded to his request.  [Rich moved and Susanne seconded the approved Motion.].

 

Old Business:  There was none.

 

Committee Reports:

 

Landscape Committee - Susanne presented a new report on tree pruning – 3 bids had been sought and received.  Susanne had counted all the trees and submitted the same proposal to each contractor, in order to get an “apples to apples” comparison as to price.  O’Neil’s price was in excess of $12K.  The other two vendors, Phillip and Mark Michaels both came in under $6K.  Susanne has had previous experience with Phillip, and recommended them (they were the middle bid, but within $100 of the low bidder, with whom there was not previous experience.)  Susanne agreed to move forward with the services (she’ll ask for copy of insurance policy) with Phillip – [A Motion was approved - Moved by Susanne; seconded by Rich.]  There are 119 trees, and the cost is $50 per tree, depending on what is required for each tree.  [Note:  Susanne departed the meeting after her report.]

 

Street Light Committee – Biff reported that he had tagged one last night and will make an online report tonight.

 

Friends of the Park Committee – Biff reported that there was a constantly “tripping” GFI outlet which has now been replaced.  Given that repair, the water cooler repairman can now go back to fix dog fountains.  Also, the receipt of the current safety inspection noted, and Biff noted that all items that could be easily fixed would be.  Finally, there was an update on the trash cans and lids – apparently we had never gotten the “keys” to open up the containers to get to the trash receptacles inside – we now have these, so disposal should proceed in an orderly manner.

 

Public Comments – None

 

Final business:  Biff Baker informed the Board that he has “not sought reappointment” for 2010.  He has served nobly since 2002, and his long and dedicated service was noted.  Biff’s departure, since he is a resident of the Association, means that we cannot continue to meet regularly at the Feather Cove Association clubhouse.  After the January meeting, which Biff will attend, we will need to locate a new meeting place.  In addition, Alicia McCauley announced that she will not serve for a second year.  She was also thanked for her time of service.

 

Next Meeting Date – January 13, 2010, Feather Cove Association clubhouse, at 4:00pm.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 5:30pm.

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

September 9th, 2009

 

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:03pm.  All Board members were present, plus guest Bill Davis, of Utility Savers.  The normal Agenda order was modified so our guest would not have to wait.

 

Bill Davis provided the Board with a written report.  Discussion ensued; questions were asked and answered.  In addition to ˝ of the refund amount, Mr. Davis is entitled to ˝ of the identified savings for the next 60 months.  Mr. Davis indicated that he would accept a lump sum fee (as opposed to 60 consecutive monthly billings), and he offered a 25% discount for this option.  Rich made a motion to accept this “lump sum payment” proposal, pending verification of credits and changes, and Susanne seconded.  The motion passed.

 

Secretary’s Report

 

There was brief discussion concerning a portion of the June Minutes [6/3/09 meeting].  The Board agreed that the June Minutes as published accurately reflected the discussion of that meeting, and that no factual errors were contained in those Minutes.  Rich’s Motion and Susanne’s 2nd, the June Minutes were approved without change.

 

Treasurer’s Report

 

Rich distributed a Cash Flow projection over 5 years – there was discussion about labeling a portion of our reserves as a “landscape reserve” (thinking of it in terms of a disaster contingency).  No conclusion was reached.  Some math errors were noted in Cash Flow, and Rich agreed to review and make corrections.  In addition, a packet of materials was distributed, including a letter from Robert LaSala’s office at the County and forecasted computations based on the new millage rate.  This forecast provided data over the next 6 years, and is essentially the same data (from the County) which Rich includes in his Cash Flow projection.  There was brief discussion.  Rich also reported on the status of our bank funds, and there were questions asked and answered.  Finally Rich provided copies of the Monthly Cash Flow reports for the current fiscal year (which ends in a month), and the next (FY2010).  It was noted that the FY2010 report reflected the new reduced millage rate.  These reports were reviewed by the Board.   [The Treasurer’s Report was approved – Susanne moves; Fred seconds.]

 

New Business:  A copy of the text for the Annual Report to Residents was presented by Rich.  The Board suggested some minor revisions, and this revised version was approved for distribution without motion.

 

 

Old Business:  The report and discussion regarding Utility Savers was placed first on the Agenda to save our Guest’s time.  Please see above.

 

Committee Reports:

 

Landscape Committee – Susanne reported that she had place a call regarding lawn clippings being blown into the lake.  This problem is now fixed.  Biff report on his follow-up with Eddie Hartwell regarding the caps and powder coating for the recreation area posts.  The caps are completed, but the coating is not yet done; it should be done by the end of September.  The Board discussed the need to visit the site and mark those boards and rails which were candidates for replacing.  Susanne volunteered to coordinate this, with Biff and Pat also participating.  Once done, Eddie can provide us with a “firm” estimate, and we can move forward with the necessary repairs.  It was also reported (by a resident) that the dog part of the drinking fountains were not working.  These repairs are still to accomplish.  There was some discussion about the advisability of find a maintenance-type person who could be put “on retainer” to check and repair these kinds of minor (and recurring) problems.  This is under consideration.  A resident also report that there were spider webs in the trees.  A several hour discussion ensued regarding arachnophobia, the possibly imminent apocalypse, residents with too much time on their hands, and early Halloween decorations.  Finally, there was a question regarding the need/desirability of some tree trimming, and Susanne agreed to follow-up.

 

Street Light Committee – No report

 

Friends of the Park Committee – None! 

 

Public Comments – None!

 

Some upcoming county meetings regarding the Airco Land Use issues were mentioned.  All were directed to the County’s website:  www.pinellascounty.org – and the reference “Airco Property”.

 

Next Meeting Date – November 11, 2009, 4:00pm. 

 

The meeting was adjourned at 5:44pm.


Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

June 3rd, 2009

 

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:05pm.  All Board members were present, plus guests Mike Schlensker and Eddie Hartwell.  The normal Agenda order was modified so our guests did not have to wait.

 

1st Guest:  Mike Schlensker of Feather Sound Alliance.  Mike discussed a platted but unpaved section at the end of Heron Place, called Cambridge Avenue (or the Heron Place extension).  This matter is connected to the 123 acres just west of the canal which is to be eventually developed by Airco and the County.  Mike’s Alliance wanted the county to agree to a “vacation” of their rights in the property.  Five of the 6 “community organizations” which received a letter from the county asking for objections to that vacation had sent “no objection” letters.  [Feather Sound News was the 6th organization, and “abstained” due to the owner of the News not being a Feather Sound resident.]  Mike indicated that approximately 100’ x 60’ would be deeded to the homeowners (the Owners) to the south.  The County would retain an underground easement (The County apparently is aware of an underground culvert, and possibly electric lines).  Additional discussion of the Airco/County plans revealed that it was estimated that an additional 3,000 cars/day would travel on Ulmerton Road when the Airco/County plans were ultimately finished.  [It was agreed by consensus that the Board send a “no objection” letter back to the County, and Rich agreed to write it – Approved unanimously.]

 

2nd Guest:  Eddie Hartwell [Mr. Hartwell has been contracted by the Board on previous occasions in connection with the recreation area.]  He was present to discuss two repair-renovation projects.  First project:  The Board is considering attaching metal post “lids” to prevent water damage to the top of the posts.  There are 64 posts on the site – fabrication, powder coating & installation of the lids would cost approximately $2,240.  It would take about 7 days to get the post covers fabricated and powder coated.  [After discussion of advantages of proceeding with the project - Fred moves, Susanne seconds – approved.]  Second project – In connection with the boardwalk, the Board is considering removal/replacement of stain from walkways and rails plus replacement of damaged boards.  Discussion occurred on how to best remove the old stain and still be environmentally-friendly.  Eddie confirmed that the present stain is water-based.  One idea is to sand-blast the boards and then put on new stain (two coats recommended – Eddie would use siding stain, which is thicker and doesn’t penetrate much).  Per Eddie, some replacement of boards will be probable.  [It was noted that such replacement will be difficult due to the way the boardwalk was originally engineered.]  A second idea was to put new boards over the top of the handrails and floorboards which were already there.  This would eliminate all replacement costs, since the new surfaces would cover the old.

 

Costs were discussed.  For the first idea, the minimal estimate is approximately $24K, and additional minor work might increase that cost by an additional $4K.  [It was noted that the boardwalk is about 24 years old, so certainly “good value” has been received by the community.]  These costs broke down as follows:  about $7,800 to accomplish the sand-blasting (3 days to sand-blast); unknown cost for replacement of boards (since only a detailed inspection will determine how many boards need replacement); then it would take about 5 days to stain.  It was noted that no toxins would result from the sand-blasting process.  Eddie indicated that about 7 days lead time were needed once it was determined how many boards needed replacement.  Eddie estimated that the sand-blasting/replacement/re-stain process would result in approximately 7-10 years of additional life for the boardwalk.  [There would be even more added life if an additional re-staining took place down the road.]  The cost for the second idea (to put all new boards on the floor boards and handrails) is approximately $45K.  There was discussion and follow-up questions about both ideas.  The Board decided not to proceed with the $45K project.  Eddie was asked to submit bids on the different aspects (sand-blasting, board replacement, and staining) of the first idea, since these tasks could be separated as to cost and time-frame.  Eddie (and at least one Board member) will visit the boardwalk and determine exactly how many boards need to be replaced.  Once cost estimates are submitted for each aspect of the project, the Board will consider each part (probably via an email meeting) and make approvals for each part.  There will also be an attempt to contact original builders of walkway.

 

Secretary’s report –

 

The previous meeting’s minutes were approved.  [Susanne moves; Pat seconds]

 

Treasurer’s Report

 

Rich distributed a Cash Flow chart, showing actual figures through April and May 2009.  Rich noted that $60K had been received from the County in April, as expected.  Rich also provided an estimated cash flow report for FY 2010, showing a reduction of our request of money from the County from $60K to $50K.  The impact of this reduction was a small [-16K] reduction in our reserves.  A longer-range cash flow projection was then distributed, comparing figures for FYs 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014.  Originally we had proposed to the County a millage rate reduction from approximately .89+mills to .75mills.  At the presentation to the County Commissioners, Commissioner Morroni indicated that he preferred a reduction that was double the amount proposed.  There was discussion about whether or not to re-consider our proposed reduction, but no motion was forthcoming.  [Susanne moved and Pat seconded approval of the Treasurer’s report. – Approved.]

 

Old Business –

 

Biff reported additional contact with the owner of Utility Savers.  He indicated that the count of 183 light poles seemed correct.  He was working on getting in touch with Progress Energy, and also indicated that some savings may be available with our water bill.  A complete report is expected soon.

 

Committees –

 

FRIENDS OF THE PARK:

 

There appears to be regular use of the park, but no organization is yet in place to really spear-head this “group”.

 

LANDSCAPING:

 

It was reported that the pet fountain still not working, even though the leak had been fixed.  This is a minor pending project.

 

STREET LIGHTING:

 

No report again.

Public Comments - There were none.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:51pm, and the next meeting was scheduled for 9/9/09.


Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

April 8th, 2009

 

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:08pm.  All Board members were present, except Alicia McCauley, who arrived after the meeting commenced.

 

Secretary’s report –

 

Although Bob had modified the Minutes of the January meeting, and had added a note which attempted to explain the re-appointment confusion, there had been difficulty in verifying the receipt of the draft minutes (for both the January and February meetings) by all members of the Board.  Since a quorum of Board members had received both sets, and only minor typographical revisions had been noted, both sets were approved as revised, and Bob was instructed to send out final versions to all.  [For January’s Minutes, approval moved by Fred, seconded by Susanne; for February Minutes, approval moved by Susanne, seconded by Pat.]

 

Treasurer’s Report –

 

Rich distributed a copy of the annual report to the state.  This was filed electronically, and paid for with a new debit card from Regions Bank (which we were required to get when we recently opened the accounts there).  Rich also distributed copies of reports on our bank funds, and made a brief explanation.  Rich next distributed a Cash Flow chart, showing actual figures (through 3/09) and projected figures through FYE 9/30/09.  A brief explanation followed, concerning mostly minor entries, including an oddly small water bill for fountain use (possible explanations included recent water restrictions and a possibly broken or mis-timed pump).  Rich also provided an estimated cash flow report for FY 2010.

 

We did request (as we had previously discussed) for a reduction of funds from the county – from $60k per quarter down to $50k per quarter; a budget draft showed the impact of this reduction of county funds.  We will not be increasing our reserves, but we still will barely deplete what we already have in reserve.  This result will be only minimally impacted by the proposed decrease in millage rate.

 

Rich then distributed a budget proposal, which will be presented to the County on May 12th, and which confirmed the above discussions.  [Approval of this budget proposal was moved by Bob and seconded by Susanne.]  Rich distributed a draft of the annual report to Feather Sound property owners.  This was briefly reviewed and discussed.  We decided to emphasize the reduction of the millage rate.  It was also decided to delay the mailing of the report until after the proposed budget is ratified by the County Commissioners in May.  [Fred moved and Susanne seconded approval of treasurer’s report.]

 

Old Business –

 

The revised contract from Utility Savers was brought up again.  The revised agreement and authorization letter were reviewed and discussed.  All changes which Board members had previously suggested were incorporated, and the contract was signed by Utility Savers and submitted to the Board for approval.  [Rich moved approval and Pat seconded.]

 

Committees –

 

FRIENDS OF THE PARK:

 

It was reported that the playground gate had been accidentally broken during the clean-up of the park by a group of Feather Sound Community Church youth volunteers.  New hinges have been ordered.

 

The Board also received copies of the playground inspection audit.  A bill for about $300 came with it (this bill had been previously approved).  There was a discussion of various items on the last page of report, which contained only a single “class 1” (the most egregious) category violation.  There was a 10 page written report which was designed to explain the distributed report, but copies had not been made (saving trees!), so it was passed among the Board.  Fred agreed to follow-up with auditor to determine what, exactly, needs attention.  It was agreed that there would be further follow-up at our next meeting, regarding which items have been solved, or compromised, or deemed inconsequential enough to ignore.

 

As further follow up on FSCC’s effort to clean up the park, they had been reimbursed $159 for supplies, and had purchased a garden hose, which will be retained for future used by the Board.  The Board speculated that this two day clean-up project might become an annual event, for any of several youth groups in the area.

 

LANDSCAPING:

 

Susanne agreed to make some phone calls regarding a deteriorating condition of the boardwalk, and possibly needed repairs.  This boardwalk has been in place since the mid-1980’s, about 25 years in all.  We hope to get 3 companies/people to view the boardwalk and suggest what is needed.

 

STREET LIGHTING:

 

No Report.

 

Public Comments - There were none. The meeting was adjourned at 5:40pm. The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, 2009.  The following meeting was tentatively set for August.


Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

February 25th, 2009

 

Special Note to these Minutes:  Due to the Board re-appointment confusion which is more fully described in a “Special Note” in the January, 2009 Minutes, immediately after the meeting was called to Order, the Board considered how it should correct January’s Minutes.  This meeting also was conducted “out of order from the agenda” due to the presence of a guest.

 

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:04pm.  All Board members were present, plus Mo Barnum.  The Board discussed how to verify decisions made in the January meeting, and how to correct any errors.  It was unanimously decided to ratify all Board actions taken at the January meeting (all votes had been unanimous).  A new election was held for Vice-President.  Fred Petty was approved [Moved by Susanne; seconded by Pat.]

 

Secretary’s report –

[In the interest of saving the Guest’s time, the Board departed from the Agenda.]

Bob had agreed to modify the Minutes of the January meeting, explaining the re-appointment confusion, and then distribute the Minutes in final form.

 

Guest Bill Davis, from Utility Savers, next made a presentation to the Board.  The presentation and discussion last approximately 40 minutes.  Mr. Davis introduced his Utility Savers business.  A copy of his contract had previously been sent to Board members via email.  Questions from the Board included the types of utility “errors” that he had found; whether or not his contract could accommodate a governmental entity such as ours, and how long he had been in business.  Mr. Davis has been in this business since 1993, basically works on his own, although he as a “trainee” on staff, and seemed willing to make some changes to the contract form to more appropriately address the issues with which our organization is confronted.  He agreed to waive the normal start-up fee of $250.  He acknowledged that his previous clients had not included a governmental agency such as ours, he seemed confident that he could find utility savings for us, and he made full explanation of how those savings were calculated and monitored (on a monthly basis).  After he departed, there was additional discussion among Board members about the advisability of engaging his services, and particular contract provisions which the Board felt should be changed.  Rich agreed to re-contact Mr. Davis, review the contractual provisions, and ask for a revised proposal to be submitted.  The Board would then review that new proposal and vote on it.  Further action was tabled until the next meeting.

 

[Again, in the interest of saving Mo Barnum’s time, the Board departed from the Agenda, and accepted files and books of records involving her past work on the Board.]

Treasurer’s Report

 

Rich distributed a Cash Flow chart, showing actual figures (through 1/09) and projected figures through FYE 9/30/09.  A brief explanation followed, as there was not much new news.  We are continuing to build funds in bank accounts and with the County.  $60K from the County, which was received in February, will require us to look for a 3rd bank so all funds are fully insured under new FDIC rules.

 

Rich reported on his bank inquiries for safeguarding our CDs.  Intervest Bank had been contacted, but rejected.  Regions Bank was finally accepted and accounts have been opened.  Rich produced a hand-out showing the funds in each of our two banks [Synovus and Regions] and in each account.

 

Rich reported that our income tax return had been prepared and filed, and that confirmation of its timely receipt by IRS had been received.  Rich also reported that our Audit had been completed and copies were handed out.  It was a “clean audit” with a “good” letter; there were no reported problems.  Rich will file one copy with the County, per their requirement.  The fee was $2,500, which Rich indicated was “extremely reasonable”.  Report to our residents will next be prepared – a preliminary version will be emailed to the Board; it can be voted on at our next meeting.  Rich intends to file our Annual report with the state of Florida, updating information on new Officers.

 

Rich reported that at 6:00pm today, he and Biff will meet with a County Budget representative.  We have to present our budget request on May 12th to the County.  Even after last year’s 10% reduction, the County wants all departments to cut their budgets by 20% this year.  Rich suggested that we reduce the mileage rate (from .9 to perhaps .75) and a offer to reduce our monetary request from the County (from $240K to $200K).  Rich and Biff will report the results of this meeting to the Board at our next scheduled meeting.

 

The Treasurer’s Report was approved  [Susanne Moves; Pat seconds.]

 

 

New Business [Noted that New Business was discussed prior to Old Business at this meeting.]

 

(a) Election of Fred as Vice-President to replace Mo – reported above.

 

(b) A 2009 copy of the Board’s Conflict of Interest Policy was distributed and reviewed.  All Board members signed it, and Bob agreed again to retain all originals.

 

(c) Fred reported regarding the families who lived in the recently fire-damaged Feather Sound apartment building..  The Community Church was working with families to help.  Also, an appeal letter which Rich had posted on our website was mentioned.

 

Old Business –

 

Committees –

 

As previously reported above, Mo Barnum gave a short review of matters which she had been handling, and released her records to the Board.  Included were such items as pond upkeep; fountain upkeep; and Florida Progress info.  Mo has been a tireless intermediary with service providers and utilities.  The Board made special note of her long period of contribution.  Thanks, Mo!

 

Landscaping:  Susanne reported on a landscape issue, and indicated that our trees were coming out as hoped.

 

Street Lighting:  Biff reported about some lights that were still out.  This was part of the “hand-off” from Mo.  Hew also reported that a new pump motor for one of fountains had been ordered by Mo – not sure if this pump was in place and operating.

 

Friends of the Park:  Biff reported that the Safety Inspector was going to the park this week for his semi-annual safety inspection.  A report will be provided to the Board.  We pay when he visits (no contract).  There is still a perceived need for a couple of new trash cans.  Susanne will email Chris to get contact information.

 

The “Feather Sound Alliance”, a community organization which had another article in the Feather Sound News was again brought up.  No one on the Board had any information on it.

 

Public Comments - There were none.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 5:56pm.

 

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, 2009.


Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

January 7th, 2009

Special Note to these Minutes:  After the January 7, 2009 meeting was held, the Board discovered that there had been a mix-up in the re-appointments of certain Board members.  Newly-elected Commissioner Bostock had (in fact) appointed new Board member Alicia McCauley.  Retiring Commissioner Stewart, whose position on the Board Ms. Bostock now held, had previously been appointing Mo Barnum, who, thus, had not been re-appointed.  Departing Commissioner Duncan had been appointing Fred Petty, and the replacement Commissioner Brickfield had re-appointed Fred for another year.  Since Mr. Petty had been absent from the January meeting, and although Ms. Barnum had not by-then received her appointment letter (which sometimes arrived late) the Board had erroneously assumed that Mr. Petty had left the Board and that Ms. Barnum was in the process of being re-appointed.  As a result of this mix-up, Mo Barnum was improperly re-elected as Vice-President at this meeting, and she did not have proper authority to move, second and vote on Motions presented during the meeting.   It was decided at the February, 2009 meeting (for which separate Minutes will be prepared), that a new Vice-President would be elected, and that, since all Motions from the January meeting had been passed unanimously, the Board would ratify all its decisions from the January meeting.

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:10pm. The Board welcomed new member Alicia McCauley, who was appointed by newly-elected Commissioner Nancy Bostock.  Departing member Fred Petty’s years of service on the Board were duly noted with appreciation.

 

Secretary’s report –

Although there had been some recent difficulty with the electronic receipt of Minutes, all members reported receiving the draft minutes, and the Minutes were approved [Moved by Mo, seconded by Susanne].

 

Treasurer’s Report

Rich distributed a Cash Flow chart, showing actual figures (through 12/08) and projected figures through FYE 9/30/09.  A brief explanation followed, which introduced our new Board member to this form (and others normally provided during the Treasurer’s report). Rich reported that our next budget discussion with the County would probably include a reduction in revenue – he guessed this might be as much as 10%.  This was not viewed as a cause for alarm, since, per FYE figures, we expect to continue to slowly build reserves. Rich reported that our accountant, Jim Atkinson, has nearly completed work on our Annual report, audit and tax return.  Rich has rec’d a draft copy.   Final copies will be forwarded to the Board by Rich when completed.

 

Rich reported that, in January, a $50K CD was rolled over (we have several CDs, organized into what he described as a CD “ladder”) – The overall goal (as discussed in the last two meetings) is to make sure that our bank deposits fall under the new FDIC insurance limits.  When the next CD soon matures (also $50K), it was proposed that we purchase a CD at another bank.  Rich will choose a bank based on CD rates and (to some extent) convenience.  A Motion was made, and then withdrawn, regarding specific actions which Rich would be authorized to take to fulfill the goal.  After some additional discussion, a Motion was presented which authorized Rich to act as expeditiously as possible, and in whatever way he felt appropriate, to achieve the desired goal:  namely, that all funds under our control would be fully insured under the new FDIC insurance limits.  [Moved by Bob, seconded by Mo – Approved.]

 

Rich then discussed the possibility of a further utility bill analysis.  A Feather Sound resident had recommended to Rich a company called Utility Savers www.utilitysavers.com.  Rich was going to inquire further, and will ask that a copy of their contract be sent to him for his review.  In addition to this issue, Mo indicated she would re-contact the utility contact person and see if we can get the poles vs. lights discrepancy resolved.  [The present billing shows a different number of lights and poles.]

 

The Treasurer’s report was approved [Moved by Susanne; seconded by Mo.]

 

New Business [Noted that New Business was discussed prior to Old Business at this meeting.]

Officers were re-elected to the positions held the previous year.  [Moved by Pat, seconded by Susanne.]  I appeared that all members had received their official notification of their new appointment for 2010.

 

There was discussion regarding inquiries by a person who was advertising a “fitness boot camp” which utilized the recreation area.  It was concluded that, as per past policy, the park can’t be reserved, and users can’t limit its use by others, but no further involvement by the Board was deemed appropriate.  In a related issue, the person offering the “fitness boot camp” had also placed signs throughout the Feather Sound area.  The proper placement of such signs (and any procedures necessary to obtain permission for their placement) falls within the authority of the County, to which this person was already referred.  Biff agreed to re-contact this individual and re-iterate these policies.

 

There was brief discussion about a “community organization” called the Feather Sound Alliance, which was recently featured in an article in the Feather Sound News.  None of the Board members had specific knowledge of the organizer of this group.

 

Old Business –

Regarding recycling by the County, Biff had agreed to follow-up with Fred, but in view of Fred’s departure from the Board, Bill had followed up directly with the County.  They indicated that no such service was contemplated prior to 2010.  No further action was suggested.

 

Committees –

 

Landscaping:  Biff reported that inside the playground, south of the climbing rock, one of the “T” bubbler arms has been removed or destroyed, and that water now is spraying out of that hose.  Action to correct will be taken.

 

Street Lighting:  Mo’s normal report on the utility bill discrepancy was already discussed above.  It was also noted that a couple of “falling” poles needed to be reported.  Mo agreed to follow-up appropriately.

 

Friends of the Park:  There was no report – Biff indicated that we would try to get Chris to come to a meeting.  It was noted that new mulch had been installed.

 

Public Comments - There were none.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:40pm.

 The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, 2009.


Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

November 5th, 2008


After an unavoidable delay, the meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:30pm, Wednesday, November 5, 2008. Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Maureen Barnum, Pat Moriarty and Bob Hicks.

Secretary’s report –

The Minutes of the previous meeting (September 10, 2008) were approved. [Moved by Mo; seconded by Rich.] It was noted that emails of the draft minutes vs. final minutes had not been received consistently by all Board members, and copies would be re-sent.

Treasurer’s Report –

Rich reported that a “courtesy notice” had been sent from St. Petersburg regarding upcoming hearings (12/18) on area land use.

Rich reported that our accountant, Jim Atkinson, whom the Board had authorized to provide independent auditing services again this year, had sent an engagement letter.

Rich reported that D & O liability insurance renewal statements had been received, and that a new option had been offered, which provided for a 3 year renewal (as opposed to the normal annual renewal). There was a nominal “pre-payment” under this option, but each year’s premium was paid on an annual basis, and this option would save an annual renewal application process and guarantee the annual premium amount for the next three years. Since this renewal covered the Board as a whole, rather than naming (and covering) the specific individual members, the Board authorized this three year renewal.

Rich reported that the insurance renewal for property insurance had been received, in the amount of $1,062. This was close to last year’s premium. [Rich had followed-up on questions from the last meeting regarding the availability of hurricane/wind insurance coverage for damage due to plants, playground, landscaping. No carrier is presently providing this kind of coverage.]

Rich provided an updated Cash Flow report (actual through the F/Y end (Sept.) and projected figures through September 2009. He noted minimal financial activity in October, 2008. Projection showed a slight increase in Y/E balance.

Finally, at the last meeting a suggestion was made regarding changes in our Certificates of Deposit. Since that meeting, Federal changes in the available insurance coverage had reduced any exposure significantly. In addition, there had been some rule changes at Synovus bank which impacted the proposed changes. The maturities for the CDs occur next January, February and April. Therefore, the Board decided to delay any action until its January meeting. Rich expressed confidence that more helpful information should be available to us by that time to allow us to consider the best plan to protect these assets.

The Treasurer’s report was approved [Moved by Pat; seconded by Mo]

Old Business –

Committees –

Landscaping – Mo presented a bill from B-Mac for mulch, totaling $3,850 (entranceway, median) plus another area for $1,155 (playground). Mo agreed to follow-up to make sure we were getting the right mulch for the playground area (this area required specially-engineered mulch, which is not the same as regular landscape mulch). The Board approved the bill to the extent of the median mulch, but decided to delay approval on the playground type mulch until the follow-up was completed. The Board continued to delay on an order of more trash cans.

Street Lighting – Due to confusion over a $12K billing in June, Rich had undertaken a thorough review of the lighting fixtures and poles. He prepared and distributed a “Trend statement”. There was an apparent discrepancy between 79 poles, but 100 fixtures. Fred (who had made an ill- advised decision to skip this meeting) was promptly assigned to do a complete neighborhood “pole poll”. Biff also reported a couple of power pole lights out.

Friends of the Park – Biff reported that he had received only one non-committal email from Chris Merritt and agreed to call her and follow-up. Some paint-related vandalism was noted in the gazebo near the playground. There was discussion of how to engage the energies of local volunteers by utilizing the possibility of community service credits at the local schools.

New Business -

Recyling – Biff agreed to follow-up with Fred.

The status of official notification of new appointments for 2010 was briefly discussed. Biff agreed to follow-up, and it was noted that two commissioners were just newly elected and might not be fully aware of any role in reappointments.

Public Comments -
There were none.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:37pm. The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, 1/7/09.


Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

Sept 10, 2008

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:10pm, Wednesday, September 10, 2008, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse. Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Pat Moriarty, Fred Petty and Bob Hicks.

Secretary’s report –
The Minutes of the previous meeting (June 11, 2008) which were recorded by Biff Baker in Bob Hicks’ absence) were corrected and approved. [Moved by Susanne & seconded by Rich.]

Treasurer’s Report –
Rich provided an updated Cash Flow report (actual through F-Y 8/08, and projected through September, the final month of the current F-Y). Rich reported that we had received the County’s quarterly installment in August. He also included a projection for FY 2009. This showed less money being received from the County, and projected higher utility bills based on reported projected rate increases from Florida Power. As the report projected, next year will be a “break even” year. $60K expenditures were noted for park improvements.

Rich further reported that the annual “Report to Residents” was mailed out over the summer, as promised in last meeting’s minutes. Rich proposed that Jim Atkinson again be hired to provide independent audit services. Indications are that there will be some increase in expenses due to increased FASB accounting profession rules. Mr. Atkinson has provided good quality service in the past, plus he is a Feather Sound resident.

There was discussion about the size of our reserve, and the possibility of a hurricane fund, perhaps funded through insurance. Rich is going to follow-up.

There was discussion regarding the location of the present reserves, and the pros and cons of re-structuring those reserves into deposits of $100K or less, so that the present banking turmoil is less likely to affect those funds. With Synovus bank (which is where those reserves are presently held), its unique structure (35 banks with separate charters), allows their bank(s) to divide the reserves into “packets” of $100K while retaining servicing of all the accounts within one bank. Additional discussion involved possible penalties to cash in early, but these seemed trivial. [Susanne moved & Fred seconded a motion to divide up the CDs to fall so each was below the present $100K insurance limit.] The motion was approved.

The Treasurer’s report was approved [Moved by Pat; seconded by Susanne.]

Old Business: There was none at this meeting.

Committee reports:
Landscape Committee: Biff and Mo reported on their meeting with Pete Yauch, from Pinellas County. They showed him the area SW of existing parking lot – 20 foot strip within utilization agreement with County – which needs some landscaping and removal of the Brazilian pepper trees. They asked if the County could pay for a sidewalk, but later heard that new sidewalks were part of the County’s budget cuts. This sidewalk could be “put in line” for eventual work, but that request could take years. However, as an alternative, the County might be willing to amend the utilization Agreement to allow us access from the lake back to a shell pathway (or perhaps a boardwalk, as opposed to a sidewalk). Then, we could landscape as we wish. The first step would be to attempt to amend the Utilization Agree. (a survey would be required – which might be our only expense if we ended up not doing any landscaping), then we could talk with a landscape architect to get a proposed plan. This project was designated for follow-up.

Street Light Committee: There was no report from the street light committee. Some minor reduction in Florida Progress bill noted, but not significant. A few street lights were noted to be “out”.

As a follow-up to Friends of the Park, Biff reported that he had heard back from Chris last week. She’s going to “get back on it”. A safety inspection from Scott Burton was supposedly routed to us. A loose bolt on one piece of equipment was noted; plus one ride had a piece which had fallen off. Biff agreed to follow up with her via email. There was also a clogged drain due to debris, which Biff cleaned out. It was felt that we needed more trash cans and two more will be ordered. It was noted that there is a need to update the bulletin board. This was designated for follow-up. There was also some discussion about a new campaign for more pavers. This was tabled forward until the end of time.

New Business:
There was none at this meeting.

Public Comments: There were no public comments which required discussion.


The next meeting date is November 5th, and this will be the last meeting of 2008.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:22pm.

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

June 11, 2008

 

Call to order 4:05 p.m.

 

In attendance: Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Susanne Hebert, Rich Pettit, Fred Petty. Absent Bob Hicks and Pat Moriarty

 

Secretary’s Report – motion to approve minutes of April 30, 2008 meeting by Mo, seconded by Susanne, motion approved

 

Treasurer’s Report – Rich reported:

 Budget presentation was made to Pinellas County May 8, 2008 by Rich and Biff; report consisted of summary of recent activities by FSCSD and future plans; Commissioner Morroni questioned the Board’s reserve funds; response that was given explained our recent reduction in millage rate, uncertainty of future tax receipts due to further city annexation and Amendment 1impact, and further possible plans to improve recreational area.

 

Cash flow report presented showing actual and projected funds; a check was received from the county for April’s remittance; Rich verified that forthcoming remittances would revert back to electronic funds transfers; projected FY ’08 reserve of $427,787.

 

Progress Energy bill for street light reflects improvements on Lake Point Drive, Mo is to check on the specific number of “installed” and “removed” lights for accuracy. Executive Center Drive lights still on FSCSD account.

 

Draft of Annual Report to Residents was presented, Rich asked for any comments or corrections, final draft should go to printing company by 6/18 and mailing to residents by mid-July.

 

Fred made a motion to approve Treasurer’s report, seconded by Susanne, motion approved.

 

Landscape Committee – Mo suggested pursuing landscaping and improvement of area along lake south of recreational area; Mo and Biff met with Pete Yauch of Pinellas County and he was checking on possibility of extended side walks in that area. Picnic table in NW shelter has been damaged on top, either stained or burned, but probably OK for now. Mo talked to BeMac and requested raking of mulch in play ground area, new oak planted on playground area along fence.

 

Street Light Committee – no report

 

Friends of the Park Committee – met in May and trying to organize volunteers for simple maintenance, updating bulleting board, etc. Chris Merritt to update after summer. The FS Community Church event in April had a good turn out and the rec. area was left in good order after the event.

 

Next meeting date September 10, 2008 at Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Meeting adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

Submitted by Biff Baker (in Bob Hicks’ absence) 9/10/08

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

April 9th 2008 

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:10pm on Wednesday, April 9, 2008, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Pat Moriarty, Fred Petty, Susanne Hebert and Bob Hicks.

 

Secretary’s report –

 

The Minutes of the previous meeting (February 25, 2008) were approved as previously corrected.  [Moved by Susanne & seconded by Pat.]

 

Treasurer’s Report –

 

Rich provided an updated Cash Flow report (actual through F-Y 3/31/08, and projected through Y-E 2008).  Bench sponsorship from Feather Sound Community Church noted.  Also noted that the usual April check from the County [for $66,500] didn’t (apparently) get deposited electronically, but rather was sent with a paper check (and sent, unfortunately, to the wrong address – to a long-past chairman at his home address).  Rich will appropriately investigate to make sure that duplicate payments have not been made.

 

A neighborhood volunteer (“Joyce”) had been involved in ordering the personalized plaques for benches, but the Board could not confirm whether or not the one for FSC church had actually been completed.  Apparently the original “order” was improperly transmitted (without Board involvement), and this confusion is still being resolved – there may be possible fees connected with re-stocking or shipping based on the error.

 

Rich indicated that he stilled needed to prepare and mail the annual “Report to Residents”.  He estimated that the date for completion will be within 30 days.

 

The Treasurer’s report was approved.   [Moved by Fred & seconded by Susanne.]

Old Business:

 

Eddie Hartwell arrived at the meeting and the agenda was suspended so the Board could discuss the recently-completed work.  Mr. Hartwell provided information regarding staining the decking and walkways.  He submitted an invoice for $5,850.00 for work completed.  Mr. Hartwell then discussed two proposals to either: (a) stain the tops of the posts (two coats); OR (b) stain the tops of the posts (also two coats) and then seal them with polyurethane (which provides complete waterproofing).  His estimates were $350 (choice “a”) or $350 plus an additional $1500 (choice ”b”).  Staining alone provides some sealing quality, but staining and sealing with polyurethane would prevent anything from being absorbed into the wood.  There was discussion on these two options with the goal of achieving a maintenance-free condition at a reasonable cost.  The Board approved a motion for choice “a” (stain tops only; two coats - $350) – Fred moved, Susanne seconded.

 

 

The Committee reports:  Completed after New and then Old Business.

 

Landscape Committee:  No report from Susanne.

 

Street Light Committee:  Mo reported via email to Biff – a timer had been tripped and re-set by Mo.  Some lights near Whisperwood have been “out”, but now are back on.  Per Mo, Progress Energy has been putting in new poles and lights since last Monday.  Plus, account changeover is still in progress.

 

Friends of the Park Committee:  Pavers done, and will be picked up and installed in the next week.  Biff had talked to Chris Merritt, and reported that an organizational meeting was planned for 5/9 at the Church.  She plans to publicize this meeting in the neighborhood and in the Feather Sound News and see who shows up.  The goal is to try to get a core group of volunteers to deal with routine periodic maintenance – shade structures, tightening bolts, bulletin board updates, clean up, etc.  Chris’s hope is that this meeting will try to “open up” the Park to the community at large. 

 

New Business:

 

[When Eddie Hartwell left, the Board returned to “new business”]

 

1.  There continues to be a standing water problem after rain this past week-end (located outside the maintenance gate of the playground – mulch has covered an existing drain.)  BE-MAC provided a proposal (approx. $9K) and Bosgraaf (approx. $22K) did as well.  The proposals were sought by Susanne on an “apples to apples” basis, so the work shown would be completely comparable.  The standing water has created a problem with mosquitoes, and rendered the playing field unsatisfactory (it’s not level any more).  Neither proposal, however, covered a re-leveling of the field.  Further discussion involved whether or not to plant grass (the field now is mostly weeds), or re-shape the field so water drains toward the mitigation area.  The Board concluded that it needed additional cost information to complete the swale area, plus leveling holes on the field, and perhaps adding some sod where appropriate.  Additional information would be requested by Susanne from both bidders.  [However, since the Board was close to approving the higher Bosgraaf bid, and in the interest of completing the work in a timely fashion, the Board discussed a plan to have Bosgraaf review their quote (in the hopes of a reduction), and perhaps propose that they add in the “addendum” items for the same (or reduced) price.]  A Motion has made by Susanne to contact Bosgraaf and propose they re-shape the swale area of the field, provide some leveling, add bahia sod (not Bermuda grass), and do all this work for the amount of the present bid (or less).  Motion was seconded by Fred and Approved.] [The Board wished to note in its Minutes that it was acting contrary to the County Auditor’s “recommendation” to always get three bids.  The Board chose to act this way due to the fact that both companies which had submitted bids were known to the Board, and both had been involved with this work since last year.]

 

2.  Susanne suggested that we re-plant a tree (which was removed due to the work on the playground), plus add some hedge to hide the anti-ram fence.  The Board agreed to replace the tree, but hold off on the hedge.

 

3.  Chris Merritt had reminded the Board that it should consider having a contract for Safety Inspection of Playground equipment with the safety inspector who “signed off” on the playground when it was completed.  Biff did not have pricing information.  The Board discussed using him informally – perhaps once every two months.  He’s visited once to complete the “safety certification” since last April.  [Motion to contract with him for one year on this basis once the pricing is verified – moved by Susanne; seconded by Pat and approved.]

 

4.  It was reported that there will by a party sponsored by Feather Sound Community Church on 4/20/08.  With the Board’s permission, they plan to bring in a port-o-let (which will be put in the parking lot).  They know they have to clean up, and know that they do not have exclusive use that day.

 

Public Comments:  There were no public comments which required discussion.

 

The next meetings are scheduled for 6/11/08 and 9/10/08.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:32pm.

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

February 25th 2008
The meeting was called to order by Mo Barnum at 4:07pm, Monday, February 25, 2008, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Pat Moriarty, Fred Petty (late arrival) and Bob Hicks.

 

Secretary’s report –

 

The Minutes of the previous meeting (January 16, 2008) were approved as previously corrected.  [Moved by Rich & seconded by Pat.]

 

Treasurer’s Report –

 

Rich provided an updated Cash Flow report (actual through F-Y 1/31/08, and projected through Y-E 2008).

 

Rich noted a recent direct deposit from the County.

 

Drainage improvements were noted as paid – but standing water had been seen (perhaps in another area), so follow-up was deemed warranted:  Mo agreed to notify Susanne to check for any standing water south of the basketball court.

 

The estimated balance of funds with the County had been revised upward, and Rich reported that a new donation had been received from Feather Sound Community Church for $1,550.  It was agreed that a name plate commemorating their gift would be prepared and placed on one of the 6’ benches.

 

Rich reported that the annual financial audit had been done and that the tax returns had been completed.  Copies of Y-E financial statements were distributed (ending 9/30/07).  Board members were advised to review new Notes D, E and F on this year’s statements.

 

Rich also reported that he had “rolled over” four certificates of deposit prior to the federal reserve’s most-recent rate drop.

 

Rich discussed the new proposed Budget (which had been emailed to Board members prior to this meeting).  The County had adopted a county-wide policy to reduce budgets by 10% due to Amendment #1 (which reduced appraisal base – which, for clarification, was not the same as the millage reduction which the Board had volunteered to undertake last year), and although this District doesn’t technically have to follow that policy, Rich indicated that is seemed prudent to do so, especially since our available funds appeared adequate (with no major projects scheduled for the year) and our reserves were anticipated to continue to increase.  A Motion was made to approve the budget as presented by Rich – [Moved by Mo & seconded by Pat – approved.]

 

Rich then reported that last year’s County “audit” of this Board’s activities had cost $34,000, and that some or all of this cost might be allocated to us!  This news was transmitted to Rich at a meeting Rich had attended with a County auditor, and was not greeted with particular enthusiasm by the Board.

 

The Treasurer’s report was approved.   [Moved by Fred & seconded by Pat.]

 

Old Business:

 

1.  Recreational area improvements update – Fred reported that he had gotten a call from the fence man, acknowledging his receipt of the check.  Work was to commence soon.

 

Committee reports:

 

Landscape Committee:  [No official report – Suzanne absent.]

 

It was noted by several Board members that a lawn area near Whisperwood had been dug up by truck tires and remained an “eye sore”.  Apparently this area is now under the control of the City of St. Petersburg.

 

Street Light Committee:

 

Fred reported that two street lights had been “out” near his residence, and were quickly fixed (within two days) after his call to Florida Progress.

 

Mo reported on two issues:  (1)  New poles should be in no later than 3/8.  (2) Rebate funds had not been received from money paid, starting in October and up to the present, and Mo agreed to follow-up.  According to the most recent bills, which were brought by Rich and examined, no consolidation of billing had happened either.  Again, Mo agreed to follow up with Florida Progress.

 

Friends of the Park Committee:

 

It was reported that pavers have been engraved, but not yet installed.  Installation is to occur within the next ten days.  A suggestion was made to update the information in the kiosk at the playground area.  It was hoped that Chris Merritt remained interested in being involved with this Committee and Pat agreed to follow-up directly with her.  It was noted that two more rungs on the boardwalk were out, and that Brazilian pepper trees were growing over onto the Board walk.

 

New Business:

 

Mo proposed that we try to clean up the area around the borrow pit, so as to enhance the view of that water from the park area.  Questions were raised about what we can legally do, and where our property lines are.  This issue was referred to Susanne, our resident tree/plant expert, for follow-up.

 

Public Comments:  There were no public comments which required discussion.]

 

The next meetings are scheduled for 4/9/08 and 6/11/08.

 

Mo adjourned the meeting at 5:08pm.

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

January 16th, 2008

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:07pm, Wednesday, January 16, 2008, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Pat Moriarty, Mo Barnum and Bob Hicks.  [Guest Mr. Eddie Hartwell of Hartwell Fence South was expected to arrive shortly after the meeting’s commencement.]

 

Secretary’s report –

 

The Minutes of the previous meeting (November 14, 2007) were approved as previously corrected.  [Moved by Mo & seconded by Suzanne.]

 

Treasurer’s Report –

 

Rich provided an updated Cash Flow report (actual through F-Y 12/31/07, and projected through Y-E 2008).

 

[Discussion of this report was interrupted by Mr. Hartwell’s arrival.  In the interest of saving his time, discussion commenced on the recreation area fencing.]

 

Mr. Hartwell brought a sample post (about 60 pounds heavy) – 6’ long and 6”x6” square natural wood as previously discussed.  The pole would be placed 3’ into the ground, and was sloped at the top to prevent “sitters” plus aid in water drainage.  Biff reported that 1” black rope had been found at a reasonable price, and would be used between the wooden posts.  The post was approved, and Mr. Hartwell indicated that we would begin installation in about two weeks, installing in stages so new posts replaced old posts without any loss in security.  He estimated that installation would take about 10 days once begun.

 

The Board then returned to the Treasurer’s Report - Various questions on specific entries were raised and discussed.  The Treasurer’s report was approved.   [Moved by Mo & seconded by Pat.]

 

Old Business:

 

1.  Recreational area improvements update –

(a) The rope/fence update had already been received from Eddie Hartwell.  (b) It was suggested that another trash container be added to the recreational area.  (c) In regard to the drainage issue and the standing water area, we are still waiting for the work on this to be completed. (d) We are waiting for already-approved work on the hedge and irrigation system to be completed until the drainage issues have been solved, so this work also remains uncompleted. (e) In regard to a water fountain which had been working, Biff reported that he had fixed it by re-setting the compressor button. (f)

Pat reported that the long-awaited pavers being engraved now, and will be installed soon.

 

Committee reports:

 

Landscape Committee:  It was noted by several Board members that a lawn area near Whisperwood had been dug up by truck tires and remained an “eye sore”.  Apparently this area is now under the control of the City or St. Petersburg.

 

Street Light Committee:  Mo contacted Florida Progress again regarding the removal of light poles from our accounts and they indicated that they would be finished by 3/1/08.

 

There was discussion of the “Friends of the Park” group [hereinafter FOP].  Chris Merritt (who had agreed to head up this group, with participation by Susanne and Pat) indicated that she was waiting for us to develop a set of guidelines for this group.  The Board discussed possible responsibilities for FOP.  Biff proposed that FOP take responsibility to do a regular trash “clean-up” of the recreational area.  Also, that a policy be instituted and posted on “usage” - along the lines of “leave it as you found it”.  Also, that a set of County park rules be posted.  As of now, the park is open at sun-up & closed as dusk.  Part of the area’s safety certification was periodic inspection of equipment, checking for breakage, tightening of bolts, etc.  This might be another area of responsibility for FOP.  In addition, FOP could accept reservations for the pavilions.  A question was raised concerning “inflatables”, and the Board felt that there should be a rule against such use.  Also, the possible periodic inspection of the boardwalk might be included in FOP’s duties.  The Board suggested that FOP start with the County’s printed park rules, review them for applicability, and then suggest possible additions and revisions based on this recreational area’s specific equipment and facilities.  Once finalized, these rules would be posted at the recreational area.

 

New Business:

 

[Note that the Election of Officers occurred at the commencement of this meeting.]  Election of Officers for 2008 were held and last year’s slate of Officers was approved unanimously:  President - Biff; Vice-President - Mo; Secretary - RBH; Treasurer - Rich.  [Moved by Susanne & seconded by Pat.]

 

Public Comments:  There were no public comments which required discussion.

 

There was a discussion about the next several meetings, and the Board felt that it was not necessary over the next few months to meeting every month.  To confom with the availability of Board members, the next two meetings were scheduled for Monday (note different day of the week) February 25th and Wednesday, April 9th.  Based on the urgency of topics to be discussed, the next meeting was targeted fro June, to be followed by a July and August meeting “recess”.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:22pm

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

November 14th, 2007

 

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker at 4:08pm, Wednesday, November 14, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Fred Petty, Susanne Hebert, Pat Moriarty, Mo Barnum and Bob Hicks, plus returning guest Mr. Eddie Hartwell of Hartwell Fence South.

 

The guest opened the meeting:

 

Mr. Hartwell presented details of his revised proposal for fencing in the recreation area:  6x6” wood square posts (natural color) – 3’ out of the ground and 3’ in the ground (concrete imbedded) with slanted tops to the posts (to prevent sitting and water gathering); nylon marine-quality ľ” diameter rope; two gates (with turnbuckle to enable simple locking); no scratch or cut hazards with rope hardware; removal of old fence; $8,700 written proposal.  Discussion followed regarding black as an alternative color for the rope and the differences between 1” diameter rope vs. ľ” diameter.  Mr. Hartwell agreed to fax us a revised proposal with the above possible revisions, plus additional detail breaking out labor and materials.  The Board considered approving this proposal, including up to a new total (of $10K) to account for the larger rope, a possible color change of the rope, and the elimination of sales tax (which had been erroneously included in the original bid submitted at this meeting).  [Moved by Fred, seconded by Susanne.]  After the guest left, there was additional discussion concerning the advisability of getting an additional bid (although Fred had previously received two other bids which, however, had contained somewhat different specifications).  This seemed an opportune time for the Board to adopt a policy regarding the necessity of more than one bid for goods and services.  The Board decided to set $10K as the threshold floor which would require more than one bid.  Policy passed unanimously.

 

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (October 24, 2007) were approved as corrected by Pat and Biff.  [Moved by Susanne & seconded by Pat.]

 

Treasurer’s Report –

Rich noted that our insurance policy for Directors and Officers liability is due soon, but a bill had not yet been received.  Rich passed out “final” Pinellas County Operational audit report.  There was some discussion of our previous discontent with the process and the substance.  Rich provided an updated Cash Flow report (actual through F-Y 10/30/07, and projected through Y-E 2008).  There was brief discussion on a variety of the listed revenue and expense items.

 

[The Treasurer’s report was approved – moved by Susanne; seconded by Mo.]

 

New Business:  None noted.

Old Business:

In regard to proposed a new lighting proposal for poles and lights (which was discussed at the last meeting), Mo continues to follow up.  A request to Florida Progress is still in process.

 

In regard to complaints about airplane noise, it was noted that an explanation was included in the latest edition of the Feather Sound News.

 

1.  Recreational area improvements update –

There was follow-up by Susanne & Biff regarding the drainage issue and the standing water area.  We are waiting for already-approved work on the hedge and irrigation system to be completed until the drainage issues have been solved.  Susanne noted that a water fountain hadn’t been working, and it is necessary to verify the serial & model numbers to allow it to be replaced under warranty.  Pat agreed to send the latest paver list to Sumner Tile and Granite for engraving.

 

Committee reports:

Landscape Committee:  All issues noted above.

 

Street Light Committee:  Mo had followed up with this, but is still waiting for a map to determine which light poles should be removed from our accounts.

 

Public Comments:  There were no public comments which required discussion.

The next meeting, scheduled for 4:00pm, Wednesday, December 12, 2007 was cancelled due to lack of activity.  The first meeting for 2008 was scheduled for Wednesday, January 16, 2008, again at 4:00pm.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:18pm

 

Respectfully submitted by Robert B. Hicks

 

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

September 7th, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 4:01pm, Wednesday, September 12, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Pat Moriarty, Mo Barnum and Bob Hicks, plus guests Ken Burke, Clerk of the Circuit Court for Pinellas County; and two members of the County’s audit team - Robert Ovesen, CGAP, Senior Internal Auditor & Robert Melton, Chief Deputy Director, Internal Audit Division.

The guests opened the meeting –

Mr. Burke made opening remarks regarding the Draft Audit Report, and stated that this was a “favorable” report. He indicated that the recommendations given were more like “suggestions” which the Board must evaluate, to see if they “make sense” to the Board.

Mr. Ovesen then read each of the five “recommendations” within the Draft Report, and briefly summarized what was written in the Report. He indicated that the Draft report had been “substantially changed” from the initial Draft which the Board had received. In regard to Recomm. #1, Mr. Ovesen re-iterated the importance of renewing all contracts (including the thirty day contracts) so as to “make sure” that we were getting the best price. In regard to Recomm. #4, Mr. Ovesen stated that the receipt of itemized invoices was especially relevant to insuring that the performance of all vendors was appropriately monitored. In regard to Recomm. #5, Mr. Ovesen indicated that some specific information about any “Phase II” of the recreational area project should be included so as to justify the need for continuing the “high” reserves which were presently in place. [Mr. Melton joined in the discussion in a couple of instances.]

[NOTE: The initial Draft of the Report had contained a recommendation regarding grant documentation. Since that absent documentation had been subsequently produced for the audit team, this topic had been deleted from this “revised” Draft. recommendation had been was removed when the adequate documentation was produced for the audit team. This constituted the only substantive difference between the initial Draft and this “revised” version.]

Rich then discussed a variety of changes which had occurred over the last several years which he felt constituted improvements on behalf of the District.]

After the guests departed, it was noted that the written response to the “initial” Draft Report had not been submitted to the Audit Team, at their request, pending the delivery of information in connection with the original Recomm. #6 regarding grants. Since most of the Board’s responsive comments were contained in that written response, a limited oral response had been provided to the guests during their visit. The Board discussed how to deal with the Draft Audit in general, and specifically in related to contracts for maintenance of the grounds. Rich agreed to revise our response and forward it to Biff and Bob for a final review prior to forwarding it to the Audit Team. The Board is under the impression that a final Audit Report will then be issued.

[NOTE: This portion of the meeting ended at 4:53pm.]

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (June 6, 2007) were approved as corrected. (Moved by Susanne & seconded by Rich).

Treasurer’s report –

1. Rich reported that his work place office of Synovus Bank would be moving from downtown to the Carillon area, and that, therefore, the District’s safe deposit box and bank accounts would be transferred from present downtown St. Petersburg location to this new branch office.

2. Rich provided an updated Cash flow report (actual through August) and projections (through September 2007). Note that our fiscal year ends on 9/30. He will prepare a budget projection for fiscal year 2008 for presentation at the next Board meeting.

[The Treasurer’s report was approved – moved by Fred; seconded by Mo.]

3. Rich indicated that we should request a new engagement letter for the upcoming year’s financial audit. The firm which did the previous audit has given good value, and is recommended again. [Fred moves & Susanne seconds that we request an engagement letter from this same firm. Unanimously Approved.]

New Business:

Biff presented the idea of a “Friends of the Park” group, a volunteer entity which Chris Merritt had previously suggested to the Board. This group would have a volunteer “point person” who would do some routine monitoring tasks in connection with the park facility. [e.g. tightening bolts, taking reservations for the shelters, etc.] It was felt that the entity’s work on behalf of the recreational facility could be “self-policing”, although it was recommended that a Board member serve as liaison for this group [Susanne and Pat volunteered to act in this capacity.] Biff agreed to inform Chris that the Board was behind the concept, and the group’s activities will be periodically reported to the Board.

Old Business:

1. Recreational area improvements update –

The previous Minutes reported several (eight were listed) “punch list” items still to be done. For a variety of reasons, all those items remain incomplete. Further follow-up has been requested.

Three “New items” involving the area were noted: (1) Some new fencing needs to be installed to prevent cars from driving where they shouldn’t be. (2) There is some standing water in an area of the park, and an estimate has been obtained (about $5K) to tear out concrete and dig a gravity drain. There is some problem with some pavers because of this problem. Further investigation is warranted. (3) There is some standing water at the south end of the playground, preventing rain water from getting to the drain/grate. This is also being investigated.

There was discussion regarding engraved pavers, and the desire to insure that all “donors in kind” are properly recognized. Rich and Pat are working with Chris on this. In connection with pavers, about 1500 pounds of pavers were moved (and 24 pallets disposed of), by Biff’s company (St. Pete. Moving and Storage), which was paid $125. The Board noted that this “cost” was substantially below market price, and it was NOT considered a conflict of interest by the Board.

Committee reports:

Landscape Committee: There was a discrepancy in the committee report between the pond maintenance company asking for a $10 per month increase, and the report’s text showing that the fountain company asked for it. Since checks are only written based on submitted invoices, no error has occurred. Mo agreed to follow-up.

Susanne reported that she and Chris Merritt walked through the park with B-Mac, and noted the need for some additional landscaping services (a couple of new trees and some trimming). This work was being held up, however, until the fence problem is resolved.

Street Light Committee: An additional report was made on the replacement of certain street lights. It now turns out that only 14-16 lights are needed, not 18 as originally stated, partly because the lights can be re-configured as to location. This new information is from Florida Progress [The Board approved this change, but recommended that the homeowner’s association be notified, through their president, of the lighting changes. Moved by Rich; seconded by Mo.] The new stated cost for the lights is $400.80 per month for the 16 lights.

Public Comments: There were no public comments which required discussion.

The next meeting was scheduled for 4:00pm, Wednesday, October 24, 2007, and at the same location. The last two meetings for the year were tentatively scheduled for 11/14 and 12/12, again at 4:00pm.

Biff adjourned the meeting at 6:19 pm.

Submission of final version - by Bob Hicks – 9/23/07

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

June 6th, 2007

 

The meeting was called to order at 4:04pm, Wednesday, June 6, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Pat Moriarty, Mo Barnum and Bob Hicks, plus guest Chris Merritt.

 

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (May 9, 2007) were approved with two CORRECTIONS:  Detail about the items for which Chris Merritt was reimbursed was added; and the last sentence of the first paragraph of the Treasurer’s report was deleted. (Approval of Minutes with these corrections moved by Susanne & seconded by Mo).

 

Treasurer’s report

 

1. Rich provided an updated Cash flow report and projections, through May 2007.  $600 in income for brick paver donations was noted (this program ends June 15th).  Some items within the scope of the recreational area improvements project are still to be completed; so some invoices are still expected.

 

2.  Rich reported that he received a “Notice to Owner” from RP Electric Services, Inc., which is probably a sub-contractor of our General Contractor, Bosgraaf.  The Notice will be turned over to our General Contractor for action, if necessary.

 

3.  Rich reported that our Budget for the up coming year would be presented to the County tomorrow.  The Board reviewed the Budget as presented by Rich.

 

4.  Rich distributed a “Draft Report” prepared by the County’s Audit team, and the Board discussed the report, and the alternative responses.  Biff, Rich and Bob agreed to meet in July to fashion a response.  Although the Audit team indicated that there was a short time frame for our response, the Board felt that more time was needed, and Biff agreed to inform the Audit team that a response would be forthcoming prior to September.

 

The Treasurer’s report was approved – moved by Susanne; seconded by Mo

 

Old Business:

1.  Recreational area improvements update –

Chris Merritt reported:  Some “punch list” items remain – (1) 8-10 roof panels on north shelter are not installed as the panels have not arrived yet; (2) The south shelter also is not completed; (3) Some cupolas also not done, and Chris continues to negotiate with the project manager of the GC on this.  (4) The kiosk is completely done.  [Rich moves and Susanne seconds that the Kiosk portion of the pending billing be paid ($4,638), to show good faith - Approved.]  Bosgraaf, who is installing the buildings, has billed us, and has been paid for the percentage of what they have completed.  (5) Fencing – the anti-ram system needs to be cleaned up (and touched up); this bill is not paid yet.  (6) A portion of the playground fencing came in (but not to specifications), so it has been sent back.  It is expected to be another two weeks before the replacement fencing even ships.  (7) When the “kid timbers” were installed, they were not placed in a “level” enough fashion, and, therefore, a “repair” is necessary (pull mulch away and level “kid timbers”, and replace mulch).  This is estimated to be about an $8-10K cost.  Chris will ask the GC, Bosgraaf, to do this, and even with these unforeseen additional costs, we can remain within the project budget.  [Moved by Susanne, seconded by Fred.  Up to $10K.  Approved.]  (8) A final item involves the safety standard for the benches.  Our safety consultant has informed us that no part of a bench can be within 6 feet of the fence.  [It’s a potential climbing hazard.]  Six of the seven benches do not comply with this standard, but they are concreted in place now.  [Moving them will probably cost about as much as the installation, and collective recollection was that the installation was approximately $800 per bench.]  Since there is a question with the safety consultant, however, between “recommendations” and “suggestions”, Chris will follow-up and get more information from the safety consultant before the Board makes a decision.

 

New Business:

1.  Biff reported the receipt of an email from the Deputy Sheriff regarding his proposed visit to the neighborhood.  It was decided that he would wait for the recreational area to be “done”.  The Board discussed ordering port-o-lets for that event, but concluded they were unnecessary, given the length of the event and the proximity of participants to their homes.  The Deputy is thinking of late July 21st, 10am-1pm.  Biff will respond positively to this idea.

 

Committee reports:

Landscape Committee:  A bill has been received for the fountain for $100 – apparently ants were in the timer.  It was cleaned out, and then stopped again, and the timer was replaced.  All is working well now.  The submitted bill was approved for payment.

 

Street Light Committee:  Bids were received for changing out the lights near the tennis courts - $450 per month for rental costs (electricity & equipment) – 18 poles and 18 lights - $588.68 (installation).  This bill was submitted but not approved – Rich will do some research to insure that these are lights for which the Board is responsible, as opposed to lights which fall within the responsibility of that homeowner’s association.

 

Public Comments:  There were no public comments which required discussion.

 

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, September 12, 2007 (second Wednesday of the month when possible), and at the same location.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 6:07pm.

Submission of final version - by Bob Hicks – 7/23/07

 

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

May 9th, 2007

 

The meeting was called to order at 4:15pm, Wednesday, May 9, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Pat Moriarty and Bob Hicks, and guest Chris Merritt.  Board members Mo Barnum and Fred Petty were absent.

 

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (April 4, 2007) were approved without change (moved by Susanne & seconded by Pat).

 

Minutes for the Emergency Board meeting, which occurred electronically, and which approved the District’s 2008 FY Budget have not yet been completed.  The Secretary will undertake that task and forward draft Minutes to the Board.

 

Treasurer’s report

 

1.  Rich reported on the Budget Presentation which was made yesterday to the Board of County Commissioners.  Board members Rich & Fred attended.  The District’s Budget (as approved per the emergency Board meeting) was presented.  Previous presenters at the meeting had to defend questions concerning the level of their budgets, and even the very existence of their organizations.  Our presentation, which incorporated a 10% reduction in the millage rate, and included other reductions in expenses, was greeted more favorably.  If that reduction were approved, the District’s reserves held by the County would still increase next year by approximately $65K (to about $175K in total). 

 

2.  The reduced millage rate was then approved by the Board – moved by Rich & seconded by Susanne.  As a result, The Feather Sound Taxing District’s millage rate for 2008 will be .9 instead of 1.0 as in previous years.  It was estimated that this approved reduction would result in a reduction of funds (for the District’s use), of approximately $36K for the upcoming fiscal year.

 

3.  There was further discussion about the purpose of our reserves (additional recreation area improvements and disaster relief), and whether our reserves were adequate.  Questions about the availability (and advisability) of insurance to cover losses were also discussed.  Further research is necessary.

 

4.  A copy of the budget (previously sent to us via email) was distributed.

 

5.  Rich then reported on the “Field Audit Exit Meeting” with the County Auditors – 6 formal recommendations were made, based on a previous meeting’s questions.  Written recommendations, in the form of a report, are still to come from them (this might not arrive for a couple of months).

 

6.  Rich distributed an outline for a “Policies and Procedures Manual”, a topic which resulted from the Field Audit.

 

7.  Rich presented a Cash Flow report for the 2007 fiscal year, showing new actual numbers through April, 2007 and modified projected numbers through September, 2007.

 

8.  Requests for reimbursement to non-Board member Chris Merritt [to Tom’s Sod for 1600 sq. ft. of Bahia; for visqueen, tape, sunscreen, nametags and pouches] ($829.14);  Board member Pat Moriarty ($130.98), Board member Susanne Hebert ($48.73) and various other “build day” participants [all in connection with expenses directly related to the recreation area improvements build day activity] were approved (moved by Susanne & seconded by Pat).

 

9.  Rich requested funds for additional postage $82. – approved as with other reimbursements.

 

10.  The Treasurer’s Report was unanimously approved (moved by Susanne & seconded by Pat).

 

New Business:

 

The proposal to request reduction in MSTU millage rate – moved and approved during the Treasurer’s Report.  This rate change will take effect with the next property tax assessment.

 

Old Business:

 

1.  Recreational area improvements update –

 

Pavers/Bricks – Rich reported that various people (and companies) made “in-kind” donations for the “build out” and letters will be sent out to acknowledge those contributions.  The list will be reviewed, and a final list proposed.  A June 15th deadline for this set of pavers was established.

 

Regarding PBS&J – There is a minor dispute over their recent billing which included time charged to correct mistakes made by their employees.  Biff will send a letter, making payment less the disputed amount.

 

Rich showed the article in the last issue of the Feather Sound News about the build-out and grand opening.

 

Chris Merritt reported – Roofs for the pavilions are going on, but later than expected.  The stone work is also taking longer than expected.  The anti-ram system is having installation problems due to the water table being higher than 5 foot holes which must be dug.  The permanent fence still will hopefully be concluded by the end of May.  A revised, updated budget for the playground project was distributed.  A final walk through & inspection will conclude the final “punch list” by the end of May.  An extensive safety audit came out, and the report needs to be thoroughly reviewed.  [In that regard, the safety inspector said the facility was the “Safest new playground [he’d] ever inspected”].  Once all this is done, a Certificate of compliance will be issued.  There was discussion of the planned future phase of a “Friends of the Park” committee, which would liaison with the Board’s playground representative.  Various practical issues, such as the “reservations” policy for the pavilions, grill usage, trash for reservation usage, the use of inflatables (such as helium balloons), the number of permissible events in a day, the hours of use, audio levels, and other topics were mentioned as areas of responsibility for the “friends” group.  Chris indicated that the County has its own policies about such topics.  Finally, a shovel brought by one of the volunteers was lost, and will need to be replaced (approx. $20), and we have some “lost and found” items from the build day (these will b noted on the District’s website).

 

Committee reports:

 

Landscape Committee:  No report.

Street Light Committee:  No report.

 

Public Comments:  There were no public comments which required discussion.

 

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, June 6, 2007 (second Wednesday of the month when possible), and at the same location.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:58pm.

 

Submission of final version - by Bob Hicks – 5/29/07

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

April 4th, 2007

 

The meeting was called to order at 4:02pm, Wednesday, April 4, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Pat Moriarty and Bob Hicks, and guest Chris Merritt.

 

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (March 7, 2007) were approved without change (moved by Fred & seconded by Mo).

 

Treasurer’s report

 

Biff and Rich had met with County Auditors since our last meeting, and the auditors had various questions:  (1) Regarding our street lighting policy, they wanted to know how we document light outages and how we respond to questions and comments by residents.  They also had questions about financial controls over lighting cost issues.  These questions and concerns were answered.  (2) The auditors wanted copies of insurance policies for this year and last year (our certificate of proof of insurance was provided to them).  (3) The auditors inquired about the grant application process and the extent of our documentation – copies were provided.  (4) They inquired about how we handled the process of evaluating and accepting “bids” for work, and they indicated that they wanted more documentation in the Board’s minutes regarding the mechanism of any such bid process.  They specifically wanted additional information regarding bids for the playground equipment (which we will provide).  (5) They indicated that they had received a copy of our proposed Conflict of Interest Policy and thought it was comprehensive.

 

Rich distributed a “final” draft of Conflict of Interest Policy – discussion ensued – This Final Draft was approved (moved by Susanne & seconded by Mo), and all present signed the signature page.  The Board agree to review the past year’s vendor list each January (immediately after re-appointment of Board members), and re-sign the approved signature page of the policy.

 

Rich presented copies of the final printed version of the letter (discussed at the last Board meeting), and required to be sent to Feather Sound property owners.

 

Rich presented a Cash Flow report for the 2007 fiscal year, showing new actual numbers through March, 2007 and modified projected numbers through September, 2007.

 

Requests for reimbursement to non-Board member Chris Merritt ($145.21); Board member Biff Baker ($20.64) and Board member Fred Petty ($16.61) for made and approved (moved by Rich & seconded by Biff).

 

The Treasurer’s Report was unanimously approved (moved by Fred & seconded by Pat).

 

Old Business:

 

1.  Recreational area improvements update –

 

Susanne reported that we were “on schedule” for most things.  The “Build-out” week-end planning [April 20-22] continues on schedule as well.  It was announced that there would be a delay in the completion of some of the stone work.  The variance for the fence was approved today [Biff and Fred attended the County variance hearing to accomplish this.]

 

Chris reported that signs in the neighborhood resulted in a couple of vocal complaints, and some sign removal (and recovery) by neighbors.  Generally, however, the response has been very positive and continues to result in volunteers for construction and the grand opening celebration.

 

Rich also noted that there will be an article in an upcoming issue of the Feather Sound News about the build-out and grand opening.

 

Chris presented an updated budget for the improvements, and we currently have approximately $23,000 in unassigned funds.  Against this, we will have about $3,100 in non-budgeted items which will be necessary.  Chris was authorized to hire a security guard over night on Saturday evening, for the protection of the park area prior to the installation of the “safety surface”.  There was additional discussion regarding various matters connected with the build-out planning and implementation.  Many of the local businesses are contributing food and drink items.  Therefore, based on the sufficiency of volunteers committed to date (133 positions needed; 106 now filled), the Board felt it could “officially” approve the planned Build-Out (moved by Biff & seconded by Susanne).  Also, it was suggested that we print t-shirts to be given to the week-end’s volunteers.

 

Committee reports:

 

Landscape Committee:  The vendor involved in the fountain maintenance requested a $10 per month increase in fees, which was approved.

 

Street Light Committee:  No report based on non-response from Florida Progress.

 

New Business:  No other topics

 

There were no public comments which required discussion.

 

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, May 9, 2007 (second Wednesday of the month when possible), and at the same location.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:33pm.

 

Submitted by Bob Hicks – 4/15/07

 

On April 25, 2007, in accordance with our By-Laws, Biff Baker called an Emergency Meeting of the Board.  All business conducted in connection with this Emergency Meeting was handled electronically.

 

Nature of Business for the Meeting:  The FY 2008 budget for the District had to be presented to the Pinellas County Commission at their May8, 2007 meeting.  This meeting was going to occur the day before the next-scheduled Board meeting.  The budget had been discussed at the April meeting of the Board, but not officially approved.

 

Biff requested that a Board member move for approval of the budget.  Fred Petty did so, and Susanne Hebert provided a second.  Five affirmative votes were received from Board members (one Board member did not vote).

 

The Motion was deemed approved by a 6-0 vote, and Biff Baker adjourned the meeting on April 29, 2007.

 

Submitted by Bob Hicks – 5/15/07

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

March 7th, 2007

 

The meeting was called to order at 4:01pm, Wednesday, March 7, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Pat Moriarty and Bob Hicks, and guest Chris Merritt.

 

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (February 14, 2007) were approved without change (moved by Susanne & seconded by Rich).

 

Treasurer’s report – Rich presented a draft of a proposed letter, required to be sent to Feather Sound property owners.  The text was supplemented by a comparative “Statement of Activity and Fund Balances” for FYs ending September 30, 2004/05/06.  There was discussion, and the letter will be mailed in early April.  There was also a brief review of bills recently paid & invoices presented, (most related to the Recreational area improvements) and several invoices were approved for payment (moved by Biff & seconded by Susanne).  Rich presented a Cash Flow report for the 2007 fiscal year, showing new actual numbers for February, 2007 and modified projected numbers through September, 2007.  Finally, Rich presented budgets for FYs 2008 & 2009.  Some changes in format were included.  The request for FY 2008 would be $226K, and for 2009 $281K.  Board members were advised to review the materials for discussion and approval at the next Board meeting.  The Treasurer’s Report was unanimously approved (moved by Susanne & seconded by Biff).

 

Old Business:

1.  Recreational area improvements update – During the meeting, Chris Merritt received a distressing phone call from Pyramid Engineering, regarding a particular aspect (the last-minute & possibly-required presence of bathrooms) of the recent denial of our construction permits for the recreational area.  Apparently, an extensive list of items will need to be quickly addressed before permits will be approved.  Biff tried to make telephone contact with Commissioner Morroni, but failing that, contacted a representative of the County’s Building Department.  A summary of that telephone conversation was given to the Board, and a discussion occurred.  Biff agreed to take the lead in following up on this matter.

 

Committee reports:

Landscape Committee:  Susanne reported that one oak tree might have to be removed in connection with the playground fencing in the recreational area.

 

Street Light Committee:  Biff reported that a couple of non-working lights were reported for repair.

 

Place Space Committee:  Guest Chris Merritt presented a “Build Matrix” showing the planned schedule for the “build-out” week-end, April 20-22, 2007.  Chris also showed samples of stakes which will be placed around the neighborhood.  Each stake (there will be 100 pairs scattered around, mostly at stop signs) will contain information and photos about the Recreational Area improvements and the “build-out” week-end.  Chris also presented information about volunteer needs which still exist.

 

Fred made a presentation regarding fencing options.  He located a fence which seemed advantageous at John S. Taylor Park.  Fred also made some inquiries concerning installation.  This issue was tabled, pending the results of our other permitting issues, as described above.

 

New Business:

In connection with the Treasurer’s Report, and a meeting that Rich had with County officials concerning the County’s annual of FSCSD activities, there was a discussion about the need for a “conflicts of interest” policy.  Some sample policies were distributed, and it was moved and approved that this Board adopt an official “conflict of interest” policy (moved by Rich, seconded by Fred).  Rich agreed to draft, and present for approval, this new written policy.

 

There were no public comments which required discussion.

 

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, April 4, 2007 (second Wednesday of the month when possible), and at the same location.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:43pm.

 

Submitted by Bob Hicks – 3/21/07

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

February 14th, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 4:04pm, Wednesday, February; 14, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

All Board members were present:  Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Pat Moriarty and Bob Hicks.  Guests were Ms. Chris Merritt & Mr. Gene McDevitt.

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (January 10, 2007) were approved without change (moved by Susanne & seconded by Mo) 

Treasurer’s report – (1) Rich reported that he will be filing the state-mandated Annual Report with the state of Florida.  (2) He also applied for, and received, a state sales tax Certification of Exemption (this should save approximately $7,000 per year, and expires in 2011).  The extensive new work in the Recreation area prompted this application.  (3) Although the Board has previously approved the playground expenditures, the invoice, due to its large size, was presented for approval.  However, since a few items were ordered but not yet received, a revised (complete) invoice has been requested.  The in-hand invoice (less payment for items not yet received) in the amount of $96,739.87 was approved (moved by Mo & seconded by Susanne).  (4) Rich reported that the tax return and annual report have been filed and completed (respectively).  (5) Rich presented a Cash Flow report for the 2007 fiscal year, showing new actual numbers for January, 2007 and modified projected numbers through September, 2007.  There was brief discussion of various items in January & February, 2007.  Rich indicated that he will present a budget proposal for next year at the next Board meeting.  (6) Rich also reported that the county’s audit of the District’s financial records has still not been completed.  (7) Other minor expense & income-related matters (a computer software upgrade and checks received for benches in the recreational area) were briefly discussed.  The report was approved (moved by Susanne & seconded by Pat).

Old Business:  Biff briefly reviewed the Community Meeting which occurred on January 16, 2007.  All but one Board member were able to attend.  Regarding the expansion work in the recreational area, guest Chris Merritt & Biff updated the Board on activities since the previous meeting.  The trenching & installation of electrical & plumbing should commence during the third week of March.  The shelters are scheduled to arrive around the same time.  Susanne provided information on the pavers and cultured stone & requested approval of the vendor.  It was suggested that references be contacted & an additional vendor known to a Board member will be contacted prior to approval.

Committee reports –

Landscape Committee:  The Brazilian pepper trees have been removed, and a bill was presented for payment.  Mo also reported that the entrance fountain has been operating in an inconsistent fashion, and repairs will be accomplished soon.

Street Light Committee:  A Board contact was made by a resident who lives in an area where the older lights are located.  There was a question over whether the road was on county or private property.  The resident agreed to make further inquiry.  Biff also noted that several street lights are out, and will be reported.

Place Space Committee:  All information presented in “Old Business”.

New Business:  None.

Public Comments:  Mr. Gene McDevitt (guest) raised the issue of the safety of walkers, joggers, runners (and even bicyclists) who use the street instead of the sidewalk, and who do not necessarily obey all the traffic rules.  Mr. McDevitt also asked if there would be restrictions on dogs in the recreation area.  [Water fountains will be “dog-friendly” and no restrictions are contemplated at this time.]  Mr. McDevitt requested that the Board contact the County Sheriff’s Office to discuss ways to improve the overall safety conditions (improved education as an example).  Although this topic is not specifically under the purview of this Board, his concern was generally shared, and various suggestions were made to Mr. McDevitt to address the issue he raised.

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, March 7, 2007 (not the second Wednesday of the month as usual), and at the same location.

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:25pm.

Submitted by Bob Hicks – 2/22/07

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

January 10th, 2007

 

The meeting was called to order at 4:03pm, Wednesday, January 10, 2007, at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Present were Board members Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Susanne Hebert, new Board members Pat Moriarty and Bob Hicks, and guest Chris Merritt.  Board member Fred Petty was absent.

 

Since the previous Secretary, Alice Rogers, had concluded her term, Election of Officers occurred first so a new Secretary could be appointed for the purpose of taking Minutes.  Biff was re-elected Chairman (nominated by Mo & seconded by Susanne); Mo was re-elected Vice-Chair (nominated by Biff & seconded by Susanne); Bob was elected Secretary (nominated by Biff & seconded by Mo); and Rich was re-elected Treasurer (nominated by Mo & seconded by Susanne).  All elections were unanimous.

 

Secretary’s report – The Minutes of the previous meeting (November 8, 2006) which had been taken by Biff (in Alice Rogers’ absence) were approved without change (moved by Susanne & seconded by Mo).

 

Treasurer’s report – Rich presented a Cash Flow report for the 2207 fiscal year, showing actual numbers for October thru December, 2006 and projected numbers for 2007, through September.  There was discussion on the County grant, the playground pavers and benches program, and the county’s audit of the District’s financial records.  With one correction of a Receipts entry, the report was approved (moved by Mo & seconded by Susanne).

 

Committee reports – Landscape Committee:  Mo presented a proposal to remove and dispose of Brazilian pepper trees in the recreational area.  The cost was $4,780.  This proposal was approved after discussion regarding follow-up required by the landscaping company to prevent the disposed trees from returning (Moved by Biff & seconded by Susanne).  Mo also reported that the entrance fountain had been repaired, and that a bill had been submitted.  Street Light Committee:  Although no one has specific responsibility to monitor street lights that are “out”, Mo encouraged residents to help in that regard.  Place Space Committee:  Susanne and guest Chris Merritt presented an updated budget plus other visual materials regarding the project, and discussion included – separate permits needed for plumbing and electrical work; newly-planted trees being monitored for health; the nuances of “anti-ram” fencing; updated time frames for the delivery of the picnic structure and other materials; security of those materials prior to build-out; & strategy for presentation of these materials at the upcoming community meeting.  Chris Merritt was commended for the continuing extra time and effort she has contributed to the project.

 

There were no public comments which required discussion.

 

It was noted that the Community Meeting, which involved the upcoming “Penny for Pinellas” election, plus a brief presentation of the Play Space project would occur on Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at Feather Sound Country Club.  The Club was donated the space for the meeting, and signs had been place in the neighborhood announcing the meeting.  [Special thanks to the Pinellas County Communications Department for those signs.]  All Board members were encouraged to attend.

 

The next meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, February 14, 2007 (second Wednesday of the month when possible), and at the same location.

 

Biff adjourned the meeting at 5:40pm.

 

Submitted by Bob Hicks – 1/28/07

 

 

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

November 8th, 2006

 

Meeting was called to order at 4:05PM

 

In Attendance: Mo Barnum, Susanne Hebert, Rich Pettit, Fred Petty, Biff Baker; Guests Chris Merritt and Armanda Lampley

 

Secretary’s Report - Minutes from October 4, 2006 were approved on motion by Fred, seconded by Susanne

 

Treasurer’s Report - Rich presented a current cash flow statement and projection. We have received our first grant reimbursement from the county for work in the Recreational Area. After a preliminary meeting between Rich and Biff and county officials, Pinellas County has been given our records and documents to conduct an “operational audit”. The Annual Financial Audit of the District by Atkins & Assoc. has been agreed upon by a letter of engagement, but cannot commence until the necessary documents are returned by the county. Treasurer’s report was approved on motion by Mo, seconded by Susanne.

 

Community Informational Meeting to be held on Dec. 5, 2006 at 6:30PM at the Feather Sound County Club was discussed by the Board with Armanda Lampley of the County Connection Center. She has prepared an agenda which the Board was in agreement with. The County’s Communications Department will be responsible for publicizing the meeting along with Armanda.

 

The improvements for the Earl Maize Recreational Area were discussed. PBS&J has made corrections and resubmitted the final plans. Biff and Chris met with contractor Gerald Bosgraf at the Recreational Area to discuss his services for construction and oversight and we are awaiting his fee proposal. A bid from Be-Mac was accepted for landscaping and irrigation. Site signs and graphics Boards will be prepared by PBS&J for placement in the Recreational area and for use at the Community meeting. The Board agreed that we would pursue sponsorships for tables and benches in the Recreational area and sponsors for brick pavers on one of the new walk ways; it was also agreed that sponsorships could be taken in trade for in-kind donations of products or services.

 

The Landscape Committee report included bids obtained by Mo for painting, sealing and repairing the board walk and a bid was accepted for MJ’s Dock Swabers  to perform the work commencing in November.

 

The next Board meeting will be held January 10, 2007 at 4:00PM at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Meeting Adjourned at 5:55PM

 

Submitted by Biff Baker -  November 10, 2007

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

October 4th, 2006

 

Biff called the meeting to order at 4:05.

 

Those present were: Suzanne Hebert, Herb Thompson, Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Fred Petty, and Alice Rogers. Guest: Armanda Lampley, SE Center Manager for Pinellas County Connection Centers.

 

Armanda was here to ask if there were any particular needs in our community and to offer informational services.  She attends community meetings and answers problems or seeks solutions to a community’s needs.

 

We talked at length about the possibility of having a Feather Sound community meeting.  Biff has already received the approval of the St. Anthony’s Wellness Center to grant us a meeting room in their facility.  We tentatively decided on December 6th from 6:00-7:30 if the room is available on that date.

 

A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Rich to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

 

Rich presented the treasurer’s report showing the actuals through September, the end of our fiscal year.  Two payments were made to Sports Court, the company we hired to refurbish the basketball court in the park.  Rich also presented the projected cashflow for 2007. Jim Attkisson as agreed to complete our audit for 2006. Our general liability policy renews this month. A motion was made by Alice and a second by Suzanne to approve the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

 

Suzanne received the bid from Jonathan Jones to refurbish the signs in the Earl Maize Recreational Park at a cost of $4,920.  Biff made a motion and Alice a second to accept this bid.  The board approved the motion.

 

Suzanne suggested we get the additional trees planted in the park by November or December to begin their growth.  She volunteered to hand pick the trees.

 

The boardwalk in the park needs to be sealed again and several boards replaced.  We will wait to receive a written bid and proceed with this repair.

 

The next meeting will be on Wednesday, November 8th at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Respectfully submitted by,

 Alice Rogers,Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

September 6th, 2006

 

Meeting called to Order at 4:10 p.m. by Biff

 

Attendance: Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Herb Thompson

 

Secretaries Report - Motion by Mo, seconded by Herb to approve the minutes of the August 14, 2006 meeting; motion approved.

 

Treasurer’s Report – Rich presented two cash flow projections for the balance of FY ’06 and FY ’07. Rich moved that Jim Atkinson & Associates be retained to perform the annual financial audit, seconded by Biff, motion approved. Rich will request a letter of engagement from Atkinson and will get financial information to them in October. Motion by Herb, seconded by Mo to approve the Treasurer’s report, motion approved.

 

Committee Reports:

 

A)    Landscape Committee – Mo said she has contacted Luminaries to repair one landscape accent light; she also recently spoke with a county environmentalist who has inspected the lakes in Feather Sound and that person indicated that the lakes are in good condition for this time of year; Pinellas County has an “Adopt-A-Pond” program that provides aquatic plants that can be planted in the ponds by volunteers that should help maintain water quality, Mo to forward the info the homeowner’s association that was concerned about the grass and algae in the pond at the main Feather Sound entrance.

Biff will contact Pinellas County about over grown plants around the community that are partially hanging over the side walks in many areas.

B)    Street Light Committee – no report

C)    Recreational Area – Biff reported that PBS&J has indicated that Pinellas County has approved the site plans for the recreational area improvements, with minor conditions (which will be reviewed by PBS&J). We then should have final blue prints to present to our contractor; a contactor needs to be selected and Biff and Chris Merritt have checked some references on a contractor (Bosgraf) that was recommended by Carl Segro of Landscape Structures.

There is an existing faucet in the recreational area so Chris has contacted Sport Court to have them commence with the basketball court resurfacing.

 

Next Meeting will be held on October 4, 2006 at the Feather Cove Club House

 Meeting Adjourned at 5:15p.m.

Submitted by Biff Baker

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

August 14th, 2006

 

Biff called the meeting to order at 4:05.

 

Those present were: Mo Barnum, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, Biff Baker and Alice Rogers.

 

A motion was made by Mo and a second by Suzanne to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

 

Rich’s treasurer’s report shows the actual for July 2006.  July shows the normal expenditures.  Interest rates are going up so we are seeing an increase in interest income.  The budgeted park improvement monies have been rolled forward to the next month.

 

Luminary Lights replaced the burned out bulbs and/or receptacles along the front median.  This bill has been paid.

 

A motion was made by Alice and a second by Suzanne to accept the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

 

Mo will ask Be-Mac to trim some of the areas in the park.  She will also talk with them regarding grass clippings and fertilizer in the lake at the front.  This may be causing a problem further down the lake.

 

Letters were mailed to the ten residents on Feather Cove Lane regarding the placing of streetlights on their street.  Three houses do not want the lights if they are on their side of the street.  No response from the other seven.  Biff will speak to the homeowner’s association as to whether we should pursue this matter.

 

We have paid PBSJ for permits needed to move forward with the park expansion.  The next steps for the park are the new trees that will be planted and the concrete pads for some structures.

 

A sign needs to be placed in the park acknowledging the grant from the county.  Biff will call several companies to get a price for the specialized sign.

 

Suzanne acquired two bids for landscaping the park.

 

Mo made a motion and Suzanne a second to hire Sport Court to refurbish the basketball court area.  The board approved the motion.  Signs will be placed around the court to notify people of the dates when the court cannot be used.

 

The next meeting will be on Wednesday, September 6th at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,
Alice Rogers, Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

July 10th, 2006

Biff called the meeting to order at 4:08.

Those present were: Mo Barnum, Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, and Alice Rogers. Guest:  Chris Merritt

A motion was made by Mo and a second by Suzanne to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the cash flow chart showing the actual for May and June 2006.  We received our quarterly receipts from the county in June.  Landscape maintenance and utilities continue to be our main monthly expense.  Approximately $10,000 was disbursed for items regarding our continuation for beginning the park improvements. Some of the paid bills will be sent to the county as we pay them.  These will be deducted from our grant monies with the county. A motion was made by Alice and a second by Mo to accept the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

Mo called the lighting company to replace a floodlight in one of the median strips.  It should be replaced by now.

Be-Mac fertilized the grass in the park.  It looks much better.

Mo got a bid for 2 lights that could be added to one side of the street on Feather Cove Lane.  The cost would be $306.86.  Biff and Rich will send letters to homeowners on this street to make sure they want the additional lighting.

When blueprints and the building contractor have been approved, ordering can begin for playground equipment.  The trees are to be planted in August and hopefully the community build will be in November.

Sport Court should be able to begin refurbishing the basketball court at any time.

The next meeting will be on Monday, August 14th at 4:00pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,
Alice Rogers, Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

    

May 8th, 2006

Biff called the meeting to order at 4:06 pm.

Those present were:  Mo Barnum, Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, Fred Petty, and Alice Rogers.  Guest:  Chris Merritt

A motion was made by Fred and a second by Rich to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

Rich discussed the cash flow YTD actual and the projection for 2006/7.  Our actual balance at the end of April 2006 is $404,495.  Monies are in this balance to fund the improvements in the park. Rich presented our budget to the county commissioners on April 20th.  He also thanked them for the grant to help with the funding for the park improvements. The annual report has been mailed. A motion was made by Alice and a second by Herb to approve the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

One of the luminaries is out in the median at the front entrance.  Mo called to ask the lighting company to replace it and check all of the other ground lights.

Biff received a letter regarding the streetlights on Feather Cove Lane.  They were approved.  Mo will talk with Florida Progress as to where they should be placed and how many.

Chris presented the projected budget for the Earl Maize Recreation Area.  This included renovations and improvements.  The costs are budgeted in phases.

Herb made a motion to approve this budget and Fred a second.  The board approved the motion.  Chris will proceed with the next phase to get the contracts approved.

Fred had a discussion with the county concerning the drainage ditch on the south side of Feather Sound Drive from the church to beyond Bay Meadows apartments.  Some residents would like it covered because it’s an eyesore and needs to be cleaned.

The next meeting will be on Monday, July10th at 4:00pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,
Alice Rogers, Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

    

April 10, 2006

Bill called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m.

Those present were:  Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Fred Petty, Susanne Hebert and Rich Pettit.

Guests:  Laurie Potier-Brown, Chris Merritt, Debbie Tucker

Lori Potier –Brown presented the board with a rendering and a cost estimate sheet on the park additions.  The cost estimate sheet included itemized “Hardscape Materials,” “Landscape Materials,” and “Civil Site” expenses. In reviewing these items with Laurie it was brought up that installation costs were not included so the board asked Laurie to go back and review with others in her office to obtain an estimate on any installation costs as we would need these in order to determine what items we could include and/or exclude. Also, in reviewing the rendering, it was decided by the board, not to extend the playground area into the open area of the ball field. Laurie’s drawing had extended part of the playground approximately 20’ into this space.

The board also requested Laurie to replace the 8-10’ oak trees with larger specimens so that some shade might be more immediate.

A motion was made and a second to approve the minutes of the March meeting. The board did approve these minutes.

Rich presented the Treasurer’s Report. Cash flow projections for a two year period were presented and included an estimated $450,000 in expenditures for improvements to the Earl Maize Recreation Area. Funds for this project will come from a $231,000 grant from Pinellas County and current cash reserves. Cash balances after this project are estimated to be approximately $350,000 at the end of the FSCSD fiscal year 2007.  The report was approved. (Herb motioned and Biff 2nd the motion for the approval.)

On April 20th, 2006, Rich will attend a budget meeting with the county commission.  The Annual Report to Feather Sound Home Owners for fiscal years ending September 30, 2005, 2004 and 2003 will be mailed by mid May.

Biff mentioned that he has still had no response from the county regarding the property on Feather Cove Lane.

The next meeting will be Monday, May 8th at 4 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by,
Susanne Hebert for Alice Rogers, Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

 

     March 13, 2006

Biff called the meeting to order at 4:05 pm.

 

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Fred Petty, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit and Alice Rogers.

 

Guest:  Chris Merritt

 

A motion was made by Herb and Fred a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

 

Last month’s minutes were brought up to actual due to the addendum approved by the board.

 

Rich presented the cash flow charts through September 2007.  It was noted that the utility expense is up about $1,000 per month.  Park improvements have been moved out one month to March 2006.  Grants and sponsorships are projected beginning October 2006.

 

Rich has completed the letter and the finances for the fiscal years ending September 30, 2005, 2004, and 2003.  This will be sent to all of the Feather Sound homeowners.

 

A motion was made by Alice and a second by Mo to approve the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

 

The board applied for and received approval for a Pinellas County recreational grant in the amount of $231,000.  This will be used to help fund the playground area, picnic shelter and other improvements in 2006 and 2007. 

 

We would like to thank Commissioner Chairman John Morroni, the board members, the county staff, Chris Merritt and Deborah Tucker for helping to make this possible.

 

Biff will tell the Feather Cove Homeowners Association that he is still working for an answer regarding the streetlights to be placed on Feather Cove Lane.

 

Biff discussed the progress report from PBSJ.  It was reiterated   Phase 1 would be only the part regarding the north end of the park.  This was specified in the grant to the county.  Water fountains are being added to this phase.  Phase 2 on the south end of the park will be completed at a later time.

 

A motion was made by Biff and a second by Fred to approve the two phases as stated above.  The board approved the motion.

 

The next meeting will be on Monday, April 10th at 4:00pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

    

     February 13, 2006

Biff called the meeting to order at 4:10pm.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Suzanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Rich Pettit and Alice Rogers.

Guest: Chris Merritt

Fred made a motion and Suzanne a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

Rich and Biff met with the county office since our last meeting.

The office presented a “budget in process” to them showing our increase per quarter from $60,000 to $65,000.  Revenues are ahead of projection due, mostly, to the increase of property values.

We must have the 2007 budget to the county by March 10, 2006.  Rich has prepared this proposal to be sent to Jerry Herron, Director of Pinellas County Office of Management and Budget.  This is a projected proposal.  Rich also presented our cash flow YTD, actual and projected budget through September 2007.

We perused copies of the auditor’s report.  Attkisson and Associates issued a clean audit for us.

A motion was made by Fred and Suzanne a second to approve the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

Kathy Swain called Chris Merritt regarding our grant request for additional monies to help with the park expansion.  On February 21st the board will meet to decide where the grants will be given.

PBSJ will be meeting with the county on Thursday, February 16th.  The county will relate to them what else is needed for us to move forward with the park expansion.

The next meeting will be on Monday, March 13th at 4:00 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

Addendum to the minutes for February 2006:

Via e-mail:

Biff proposed in the form of a motion that the Board approve a “Boundary Survey” that is required by the county before construction can begin at the Earl Maize park, at a cost of $5,300 plus out-of-pocket expenses.  This would be paid to PBSJ for these services.

Mo made a second to the motion and the board approved this motion.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

     January 9, 2006

Biff called the meeting to order at 3:35pm.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, Fred Petty and Alice Rogers.

Guests were: Chris Merritt, Deborah Tucker, Laurie-Potier Brown of PBSJ, Carl Sagro of Landscape Structures, and Scott Burton of Safety Play.

Fred made a motion and Suzanne a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the cash flow report.  Our ending balance for December 2005 is $344,777.  Rich met with the accountant for audit who had some questions regarding insurance policies, the contract with PBSJ, and the community park project.  There is no word on the county audit.  The tax return is due February 15th, so the information for the annual report should be ready before the end of January.

Rick McCaulley of the St. Petersburg Development Service called Rich about the Pinellas Planning Council hearing on the zoning of P-1 parcel on January 18th.  The County Commissioners will discuss at a February 7th meeting and the St. Petersburg City Council will address this at a February 16th meeting.

Suzanne made a motion and Biff a second to approve the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

A letter was sent to Pinellas County asking that they approve the request from Feather Cove Lane for new lights.

Laurie presented a layout of the proposed addition to the park.  Phase One would have equipment for the 2-5 year olds.  A fence would encircle the whole proposed area so that when Phase Two, for the 5-12 year olds, is added the fence would be there.  She suggested possible bollards to replace the wooden poles along the street side.  The color scheme would be maroon, tan, green and black.  They will also draw a plan to possibly extend the boardwalk.

We will now wait for the cost of each phase and hopefully a grant from the county to help cover expenses.  If the costs meet our predictions there could possibly be a “community build-out” day the end of April.

Scott addressed several safety issues we need to address.  We will pay him to do a final audit and he will give us a NRPA certificate of compliance for the entire site.

Carl’s company will give us a maintenance manual as to what needs to be checked periodically to keep the park and equipment up to par.

Herb made a motion and Suzanne a second that we should use Landscape Structures as our vendor and to approve the designated site as the one we will use.  The board approved the motion.

Please see the additional sheet typed by Suzanne reporting on the meeting at the park on December 28, 2005.

The next meeting will be on Monday, February 13th at 4:00 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

December 12, 2005

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Mo Barnum, and Alice Rogers.

Guest:  Chris Merritt

Fred made a motion and Mo a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

The board received a thank you letter for submitting the grant to the county.  We will be contacted when the recommendations have been made.

Rich gave us a chart showing the cash flow YTD, actual and projected.  We have projected money for the park improvement to begin in December 2005.  A certificate of deposit was rolled over into the money market account to help with this project.

Alice made a motion and Suzanne a second to approve the treasurer’s report.  The board approved the motion.

Be-Mac has completed the mulching around the plants.

Several areas in the park need to be repaired.  We will take care of these when we begin the park improvements.

Biff is working with the county regarding the request for lights on Feather Cove Lane.

On December 28th at 4:00 there will be a planning meeting at the park site.  The safety consultant, PBSJ and any board member who can attend will be there.

The next meeting will be Monday, January 9th at 3:30 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

November 16, 2005

Biff called the meeting to order

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, and Alice Rogers.

Guests: Laurie Potier-Brown and James Sullivan of PBSJ, Chris Merritt, Mark Abbott, Karen Mastenbook, and Deborah Tucker.

Suzanne made a motion and Rich a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Mo received a quote from Be-Mac to mulch the medians. It was for approximately $4,000. Alice made a motion and Suzanne a second to approve this, but to make sure the mulch is of natural color. The board approved the motion.

Rich received a letter requesting streetlights on Feather Cove Lane. According to an attached letter, this street was dedicated to the county by Judge Howard River on October 24, 1989. Biff will call Charlie Norwood to verify that this is a county street. We will progress from there.

Rich presented an update of the expenditures since October.

Jim Attkisson and Associates have the records to prepare our audit for the same fee as last year. The cost is $2,000.

Rich had our D&O policy updated from 1 million to 2 million. He would also like to update the software used for the treasurer’s reports at a cost of approximately $200.00. Biff made a motion to approve this purchase and Suzanne a second. The Board approved the motion.

A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Alice to approve the treasurer’s report. The board approved the motion.

Pinellas County has our grant request for $221,158. Thanks to Chris and Deborah for getting this completed and to the county on time. We will know by January or February 2006 if we are approved.

A letter was received from Charlie Norwood letting us know the land grant had been approved.

Laurie, from PBSJ, discussed the phases of the park project. Possibly Phase 1 to begin the requirements for the playground area and Phase 2 around the basketball court area. There will be meetings on the site to finalize these plans.

The next meeting will by Monday, December 12th at 4:00 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

October 10, 2005

Biff called the meeting to order

Those present were: Mo Barnum, Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Herb Thompson, and Alice Rogers.

Guests: Chris Merritt and Deborah Tucker.

Mo made a motion and Suzanne a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the actual cash flow chart for the fiscal year of 2005. One of the $50,000 CD’s was placed into our money market account. The projected 2006 chart shows the possible disbursement of funds to be used for park improvements----approximately $350,000. Another approximation of $50,000 is to be used for lighting/landscaping. This makes for a total of $400,000 disbursement of funds. When other expenses are figured into the budget we should have a balance of approximately $120,000.

The books are due to be audited. A motion was made by Alice and a second by Mo to hire Jim Attkisson and Associates to conduct our 2005 audit.

A motion was made by Fred and a second by Suzanne to accepts the treasurer’s report. The board approved the motion.

The county has still not signed off on the land donated by Mr. Yepes. They did not want to sign off if there was a conservation easement issue. It was finally determined there was not and the October 18th meeting is supposed to have this on the agenda.

Chris presented the cost for the renovations and improvements for the Earl Maize Recreation area. We plan to apply for a county grant to help pay for these improvements. Herb made a motion and Suzanne a second to accept this proposal. The board approved the motion. Biff and Suzanne will continue to work with Chris and Debbie on this grant application.

Fred Petty had a conversation with Bob Herbert, Real Estate Director of the St. Petersburg International Airport with regard to establishing a bike path around the edge of the airport property. Fred Petty and Suzanne Hebert will set up a time to meet with Bob Herbert and discuss.

Mo brought up that she has called BeMac regarding the empty spots in the front beds. Also, we need to mulch. Mo is going to contact BeMac to find out the status of the planting beds and get a price on mulching.

The next meeting is Wednesday, November 16th at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

September 12, 2005

Mo called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Mo Barnum, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, Fred Petty and Alice Rogers.

Guests: Chris Merritt, Deborah Tucker, Earl Maize and Luis Ballina.

Alice made a motion and Suzanne a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting recorded by Rich. The board approved the motion.

Budget wise, our year- end is September 2005. Rich presented a chart showing our proposed cash flow from October 2005 through September 2006.

Biff and Rich discussed the possible disbursement of monies for the park improvements and any other expenses for 2006.

The Board of County Commissioners has not signed off on our land clearance donated by Mr. Yepes. The land was originally annexed to the city of St. Petersburg. There is a delay regarding park improvements until our part is signed over to us. Rich does not expect the city to change the zoning on the additional land.

Herb made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report and a second to the motion was made by Suzanne. The board approved the motion.

The board plans to study the disbursements for next year and discuss them at our next meeting. There is a possibility of using approximately $400,000 for park improvements.

Mo stated that if we expand the park, the insurance premiums would double.

Chris Merritt was given a copy of the Recreational Grant Program to possibly complete in hopes that we can receive additional monies from the county to help pay for part of the park project. Biff and Suzanne will represent the board on this committee.

The next meeting is Monday, October 10, 2005 at 4:00pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse. The November meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 16, 2005 at 4:00pm at the same location.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary

 

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

August 8, 2005

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, Suzanne Hebert and Mo Barnum.

Guests: Feather Sound residents Chris Merritt and Deborah Tucker. Frank Bowman, Pinellas County SE Connection Center Manager.

Suzanne made a motion and Mo a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the treasurer’s report. He reported that the cash flow projection had been revised to move some of the expected costs for the expansion and improvement of the recreation area into the next fiscal year ending September 2006. As expected the last installment of funds from Pinellas County was sent in the amount of $60,000 the first week in August.

A cash flow projection for next fiscal year was also presented using estimated expenses for the recreation area project. Assuming next year’s capital improvement disbursements are $310,000 the ending cash balance would be approximately $100,000 at September 30th 2006. Rich also stated that as the funds invested in CD’s matured they would be placed in the Money Market account to be available for recreation area purposes.

The Board further agreed to have Rich and Biff review the cash flow for 2006 and to recommend to the Board a level of funding which would be appropriate for recreation area expenditures. This funding level will then be given to PBS&J as a budget guide to plan for expansion of the recreation area.

Mo made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report and a second was made by Suzanne. The board approved the motion.

Biff reported that since our last meeting he had been contacted by PBS&J with some corrections to the cost of the consulting contract and had some questions regarding the exact amount of the payments and when they would be due. The Board has previously approved this contract and if Biff is able to get these questions answered to our satisfaction he will sign the contract pending acceptance of the recreation area expansion parcel by the Pinellas County Board of Commissioners. The vote of this acceptance was expected to be on the agenda for the meeting to be held Tuesday Sept 6th.

Frank Bowman gave a short presentation on the services provided by the county connection center and requested the Board’s help with communicating these services to Feather Sound residents. He also asked the Board’s thoughts on the formation of a master Feather Sound Neighborhood Association. Various issues pro and con were discussed but no consensus reached. If such an organization were to be formed it would have to be a community lead initiative and would not be within the charter of the FSCSD.

The next meeting dates as previously scheduled will be Monday, September 12th, and Monday October 10th 2005 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,
Rich Pettit
Treasurer

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

July 11, 2005

(These minutes are pending approval at the next meeting)

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Herb Thompson, and Alice Rogers.

Guests: Chris Merritt, Deborah Tucker, Earl Maize, and Louis Ballina of the Feather Sound Community. Laurie Potier-Brown and Amy B. Krebs from PBS&J.

Rich made a motion to approve the minutes from last month and a second was made by Mo. The board approved the motion.

Rich reported that $60,000 from the county has been added to our cash flow projection for 2005.

Alice made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report and a second was made by Mo. The board approved the motion.

Susan Huntington, a resident of Eagle’s Walk made a complaint regarding the coloring added to the pond at the entrance. The coloring is added to kill the algae. Apparently it is flowing into the lake behind their townhouses. Mo will speak to our pond maintenance company regarding this matter.

Mo made a motion and Alice a second to pay for removing a leaning tree on Feather Sound Drive. A resident was afraid it would fall into his swimming pool.

The board is working on the utilization of the recreational area. PBS&J worked on the original park design 10 years ago. Laurie and Amy presented a plan pointing out the 6 areas for added amenities: 1. Expansion of the North and South parking lots. 2. Addition of playground equipment. 3. Addition of two new picnic shelters. 4. Addition of two new water fountains. 5. Extension of existing boardwalk. 6. Landscape and irrigation for new amenities and along Feather Sound Drive.

These will be done in phases. Laurie and Amy presented a complete scope of work to be done including the tasks of permits, site design, etc. Alice made a motion and Rich a second to accept the proposal at an approximate cost of $40,078. The board approved the motion. We will be invoiced on a monthly basis as work is completed.

Biff made a motion and a second by Rich to contract Safety Play with Scott Burton to assist in the development of the playground area. The board approved with the exception of Mo.

Chris and Deborah are working on a Community Build for the playground area toward the end of January, 2006.

The next three meetings will be held on these dates: Monday, August 8, 2005; Monday September 12, 2005; Monday October 10, 2005 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

June 6, 2005

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Fred Petty, Suzanne Hebert, Rich Pettit and Alice Rogers.

Guests: Chris Merritt, Deborah Tucker, Sharon Swivler, Keith Vinski and Dianne Clemmons.

Several changes were made to last month’s minutes. Suzanne made a motion and Rich a second to approve the minutes with the changes. The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the cash flow chart. This showed the actual balance through May 2005 and a projected FY September ending of $276,578. Rich renews the Certificates of Deposit on a regular basis, therefore, earning interest income to add to our bank balance.

Suzanne made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report and a second was made by Alice. The board approved the motion.

Biff met with Mark Salzman from PBSJ regarding changes in the Earl Maize Recreation Area. He agreed that making these changes in phases is a good idea. PBSJ is working on a proposal, hoping to have it back to Biff by Friday. Mark offered to come talk with us and explain the recommendations.

Margaret Neal, in Vizcaya, called Biff to comment about a bright street light. He suggested she call Progress Energy. Perhaps they could lower the wattage.

The floor was opened for public comment. Keith Vinski was concerned that our recreation area was sometimes being used to promote business opportunities through volleyball teams. Legally this is public property. Chris will confer with Dennis Long, the MSTU attorney, and ask his opinion regarding this situation.

Chris presented an overall long-range plan for a playground area in the recreational park. Debbie and Chris would like to pursue the possibility of putting together a “Community Build” to help with the playground area. Biff made a motion for Debbie and Chris to go ahead with this proposal. Herb seconded the motion. The board approved the motion.

The next meeting is Monday, July 11, 2005 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

May 9, 2005

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Richard Pettit, Suzanne Hebert, Mo Barnum, and Alice Rogers.

Guests: Chris Merritt and Deborah Tucker.

Mo made a motion and Suzanne a second to approve the minutes of the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the treasurer’s report. The cash flow is the same as the previous meeting. This chart also includes a projection of $100,000 in our current year funding for recreation area projects, leaving a projected balance at the end of the fiscal year, September 2005, of approximately $290,000.

Biff and Richard presented the FYE 2006 budget to the county during a work session in April. Our budget was approved. They also responded to questions regarding the taxing district and annexation.

The annual report, thanks to Richard’s diligent effort, will be mailed to property residents of Feather Sound this week. The cost will be $1,151.98. $1,591.58

Micro mini grants were discussed with Mark Woodward regarding our recreation area.

Alice made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report and a second was made by Mo. The board approved the motion.

A motion was made by Biff and a second by Suzanne to approved the invoice for irrigation of the new plants in the park. The board approved the motion.

Plans to expand the park area are on hold. The deed for the land to expand the recreation area has not been recorded due to a change to remove drainage restrictions on the plot Mr. Yepes is retaining. The transfer of the land to Pinellas County is anticipated to occur soon.

Chris Merritt presented to the board a proposal for discussion regarding the expansion of the recreation area. She has done tremendous research to help this cause. A committee made up of Chris, Deborah Tucker, Herb Thompson and Suzanne Hebert will meet before our next meeting. They will explore what might be feasible for our community.

The next meeting is Monday, June 6, 2005 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

April 4, 2005

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Fred Petty, Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Alice Rogers and Suzanne Hebert.

A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Rich to approve the minutes of the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the treasurer’s report. The cash flow projection is basically the same. The projected cash balance at the end of the fiscal year, September 2005, is approximately $300,000. A draft of next year’s budget was presented for review and approval. The 2006 budget is due for submission to the county this month. The requested mil rate will remain the same, at 1 mil. The $240,000 funds requested are the same as last year.

The final draft for the annual report to residents was presented. This included a statement regarding the recently acquired property that will be used to expand the recreation area. Alice made a motion to approve the treasurer’s presentation and a second was made by Suzanne. The board approved the motion.

Mo received 2 bids for trimming the trees around Sandpiper and Feather Sound Drive. Fred made a motion and Suzanne a second to accept the bid made by David Coley Trees Unlimited at a cost of $750.00. The board approved the motion.

We received the invoice from BeMac for removing the overgrown oleanders that were blocking the view of the boardwalk. These were replaced by dwarf sized oleanders. They also trimmed and cleaned the area. The cost was $8,504.20.

Biff reviewed the county permit to use the land adjacent to the Earl Maize Recreation Area. At this point we are waiting for the deed to be recorded. Herb made a motion and Rich a second for the approval of Biff to sign the county permit. The board approved the motion.

Biff will ask Charlie Norwood if he could arrange a parks and recreation personnel, or someone from the permit department, to attend our next meeting.

The next meeting is Monday, May 9, 2005 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Alice Roger, Suzanne Hebert, and Mo Barnum.

A motion was made by Mo and a second by Suzanne to approve the minutes of the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the treasurer’s report. The Certificates of Deposit of $100,000 each matured the end of February and were renewed. The cash flow projection is the same as the last meeting and the projected cash balance for the end of the fiscal year, September 2005, is still approximately $300,000. He also presented a projected cash flow for up to September 2006.

A motion was made by Alice and a second by Suzanne to accept the treasurer’s report. The board approved.

Mo reported that the lights are in on Turnberry and in front of the church.

The oleanders have been cut back around the boardwalk. Be Mac has not removed the roots at this time. The area on both sides of the park needs to be cleaned of debris, especially where the pepper trees have been trimmed. Herb made a motion and Suzanne a second to ask Be Mac to clean this area. The board approved.

Two more trash receptacles have been added to the park.

Mo has discussed the fountain improvement with Architectural Fountains.

The donation agreement for additional land adjacent to the Earl Maize Recreation Area is at a standstill. The person in charge at the county level is on a disabled leave and it cannot go further until she returns.

Mo will get bids for trimming several palms and oaks in the area of Sandpiper and Feather Sound Drive.

Biff will contact several companies to get a price to resurface the basketball court where car tires have taken off the paint. The chains need to be replaced around the court to keep cars off the surface.

The next meeting is Monday, April4, 2005 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

 

February 7th 2005

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Fred Petty, Rich Pettit, Herb Thompson, Suzanne Hebert, and Alice Rogers.

Guests: Earl Maize and John Tucker.

A motion was made by Mo and a second by Suzanne to approve the minutes of the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich reported to us that the balance for maintenance on the boardwalk has been paid in the amount of $3,600. Additional amounts of $260 and $52 were paid in January to repair boards kicked out by vandals.

On February 2nd we received $60,000 from the county for tax collection as scheduled. The projected cash balance at the end of our fiscal year, September 2005, is approximately $300,000.

Our annual audit and tax return has been completed and the tax return filed by certified mail.

A copy of the annual report will be sent to the county as well as to the Feather Sound residents.

Fred made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report and a second by Mo. The board approved the motion.

The city of St. Petersburg finally received the correct globes for the streetlights they added. The lights we were paying for have been removed; therefore, these will be taken off our list of “paid for” lights.

The oleanders have been cut down in the park. Be Mac will remove the roots and plant new shrubbery.

Mo received 2 bids for monthly cleaning of the ponds at the front entrance. A motion was made by Alice to accept the $85 per month bid by American Eco Systems and a second by Fred. The board approved the motion. Rich made a motion to change the flow of the fountains in front with a cost not to exceed $2,000. Suzanne made a second to the motion and the board approved the motion.

The county is working on the donation agreement for the land owned by Carlos Yepes. They will amend the agreement and send it back to Carlos. Once it’s approved a team will come to survey the area, then permits should be pulled to make improvements to the area.

A motion was made by Fred and a second by Herb to keep the same officers from 2004 as follows: Biff Baker – Chairman Mo Barnum – Vice President Alice Rogers – Secretary Rich Pettit – Treasurer

Fred made a motion to have Be Mac add 2 more trash receptacles to the park at a cost of no more than $1,000. Alice made a second and the board approved the motion.

The next meeting is Monday, March 7, 2005 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

 

December 6th 2004

Those present were: Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Fred Petty, Rich Pettit, Herb Thompson, Alice Rogers, and Suzanne Hebert.

A motion was made by Fred and a second by Mo to approve the minutes from the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich reported the banking activities in regards to the roll over of our CD’s for another 3 months. The cash flow projection is the same as last month and the cash balance at the end of our fiscal year September, 2005 is approximately $300,000.

Rich wrote a check for the down payment for park improvements voted on at the last meeting.

Progress Energy has made no change on our account for the lights taken over by the city of St. Petersburg. Several poles still need to be removed. These were part of our original streetlights.

The audit has been completed and should be mailed to Rich next week.

A motion was made by Herb and a second by Mo to approve the treasurer’s report. The board approved the motion.

A motion was made by Fred and a second by Suzanne to permit the officers to use their discretion if any closing monies are involved in regards to the closing of the property from Carlos Yepes, in case this should happen before our next meeting.

Progress Energy has erected the light on the corner of Vizcaya, but it has not been turned on at this point.

Maintenance has begun on the boardwalk in the park. BeMac will be replacing the oleanders along the boardwalk with lower plants.

Herb continues to work on the possibility of the Rotary park. He has taken pictures of two areas at Ft. Desoto Park. The equipment looks very safe and durable.

We discussed a memorial for Roger Watts to be placed somewhere in the park. We will wait on the land agreement to decide what will be done.

Our next meeting is Monday, February 7, 2005 @ 4:00 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

 

November 8th 2004

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Suzanne Hebert, Rich Pettit, Herb Thompson, Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Fred Petty, and Alice Rogers.

Guests were: Doran Dwarzanowski and Carlos Yepes.

A motion was made by Rich and a second by Mo to approve the minutes from the last meeting. The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the treasurer’s report. The cash flow is the same as last month. The cash balance at the end of the fiscal year, September 2005, is approximately $300,000.

Progress Energy was contacted by the City of St. Petersburg regarding the changes in street lighting at the Feather Sound entrance. Three lights on Heron will be removed and six on Whisperwood will be changed over to the city’s account. There will be nine less fixtures on our FSCSD account; however, this decrease will be increased as much as 10% later to restore Progress Energy’s hurricane funds.

The liability policy for the directors and officers has been paid. The limits are $1,000,000.

The financial records have been given to Jim Attkisson & Associates to complete the audit and tax return preparation for fiscal year 2004. The report to Feather Sound residents will be prepared when the audit is done.

A motion was made by Fred and a second by Suzanne to approve the treasurer’s report. The board approved the motion.

Carlos Yepes discussed the possibility of donating property adjacent to the park to the county. He plans to send a donation agreement for us to approve this week. We will address this further after reading the agreement.

A motion was made by Fred and a second by Suzanne to allow Rich and Biff to look over the proposal. The board approved the motion.

Herb will relay to his Rotary Club that he will let them know by the first of the year regarding the extension of the park for a picnic area and several more parking spaces.

Mo has the applications for 2 additional streetlights….one light in front of the church and one on Turnberry. A courtesy notice will be sent to the neighbors on Turnberry regarding the installation of a light on their street.

Mo received bids to refurbish the boardwalk from Scott’s, who built the boardwalk, and from Deck Builders. A motion was made by Mo and a second by Herb not to exceed paying $10,000 for this job. The board approved the motion.

There are several trees uprooted in the park caused by the hurricanes. We will need a permit to take out these trees. Mo received a proposal from BeMac to take out the overgrown oleanders and replace them with smaller plants. They will also put fresh mulch around the plants on the medians. A motion was made by Alice and a second by Fred to approve this proposal. The board approved the motion.

The next meeting will be on Monday, December 6, 2004 @ 4:00 at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

 

October 18th 2004

Biff called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Suzanne Hebert, Herb Thompson, Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, and Alice Rogers.

A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Herb to approve the minutes from the last meeting.  The board approved the motion.

Rich presented the financial and banking activities.  Our cash flow projection is basically unchanged since last month.  There is a cash balance of $314,519 at the end of the fiscal year September 2004.  If we assume capital improvements of $100,000 in 2005 and add other ongoing expenses the projected cash balance is $300,000 in September 2005.

Rich has contacted the City of St. Petersburg regarding the need to notify Progress Energy of some changes in street lighting due to the annexation of streets at the Egret entrance to Feather Sound.

The annual general liability policy premium has been paid and the new policy has been received.

The engagement letter has been received from Jim Attkisson & Associates.  The signed agreement and other financial records will be given to the firm to complete the audit and tax return preparation for the fiscal year 2004.

A motion was made by Mo and a second by Alice to approve the treasurer’s report.  The board approved this motion.

Mo met with Bob McCabe of Progress Energy regarding a streetlight on Turnberry Court and one on the corner of the entrance to Vizcaya.  A few lights close to Sandpiper on Feather Sound Drive will possibly be added.  The papers need to be signed to begin the process.  A letter will be placed at the doors of the four homeowners on Turnberry to notify them about the streetlight being installed on their street.

Herb and Rich attended a meeting at St. Petersburg City Hall. The meeting did not get to the zoning of the area by Earl Maize Recreation Area.  Nothing is going to happen until after the first of the year.

Herb presented a proposed layout of the extension of the park showing an additional parking and picnic area.  He gave an approximate price of $6,700.

Biff and Rich will draft a letter to Carlos Yepes asking him to donate a small part of the adjacent property for the purpose of a parking and picnic area.

Mo will contact several companies to repair and seal the boards on the park boardwalk.  She will also talk to BeMac regarding the possible removal of the overgrown Oleanders in front of the boardwalk and get a bid on placing other plants in their place.

Suzanne, Biff, and Alice will help Mo on the lighting committee.

Suzanne, Mo, Herb, and Rich will be responsible for the green space committee.

The next meeting will be on Monday, November 8, 2004 @ 4:00pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

 

September 20th 2004

 

Biff called the meeting to order.

 

Those present were: Suzanne Hebert, Fred Petty, Herb Thompson, Biff Baker, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, and Alice Rogers.

 

A motion was made by Mo and a second by Rich to approve the minutes.

 

Rich reported the financial and banking activities.  Two Certificates of Deposit for $100,000 matured on September 3rd.  They were renewed for another three months.  We earned an interest of $700.00 at a rate of 1.40% for these certificates.  Rich said that short- term redemption of these funds should not be needed under our present cash flow projection.

 

The treasurer’s cash flow is projected to September 2005.  The projected cash balance at the end of September 2004 is approximately $300.000.  We expect receipts of $240,000 for the fiscal year 2005.  Assuming $100,000 of capital improvements in 2005 plus other ongoing expenses the projected balance in September 2005 is $304,000.

 

Progress Energy has changed its billing to an earlier date of the month.  Therefore we will have two utility bills to pay for August.  After that the bills will be only once a month.

 

Rich contacted the city of St. Petersburg regarding the fact that Progress Energy needs to be notified of the changes in street lighting charges due to the annexation of the roads at the Egret entrance by Bay Meadows.

 

The FSCSD general liability policy will be paid in October.  This is a policy limit of $1,000,000 per year at a cost of $653.00. 

 

The engagement letter has been sent to Jim Attkisson & Associates to complete the audit and tax return for the fiscal year 2004.

 

A motion was made by Alice and a second by Suzanne to approve the treasurer’s report.

 

Vizcaya wants to add a streetlight to their area.  They would pay for the installation and are asking us to pay the monthly utility as we do on the other streetlights in their complex.  Fred made a motion to accept this proposal and Rich made a second to the motion.

 

We discussed putting streetlights on Turnberry and a light added to a pole by Feather Sound Community Church.  Mo will contact Bob McCabe regarding the cost of adding these lights.

 

We discussed the possibility of having a survey done to know the boundaries that belong to the county before we can proceed with the expansion of the park area.  Herb presented a list of items and minor construction needed to make this addition a possibility.  He will work with an outside person to help determine the cost of this expansion.

 

We reviewed the policy for Officers and Board Member Duties.  This will be discussed at the next meeting.

 

Each board member received a letter of invitation to attend the Pinellas County Regional Passive Parks, Preserves and Conservation/Environmental Lands Workshop.  Herb Thompson will represent us at this workshop on October 7, 2004 at the County Extension Service office.

 

The next meeting will be on Monday, October 18, 2004 at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

 

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

 

August 16th 2004

Biff Baker called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Suzanne Hebert, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Biff Baker, Mo Barnum and Alice Rogers.

A motion was made by Mo and a second by Suzanne to approve the minutes.

Rich reported on the financial and banking activities. The county transferred funds to the FSCSD bank account as our budget requested…..

$50,000 in June and $45,000 in August.  Expenses reported were $1,802 for producing and delivering the annual report to residents, payment of $20,776 to Be-Mac for the completion of the landscaping of the two medians adjacent to Pelican Landing, and $10,927, in June, to Gatorscape as final settlement of the disputed matter.

Rich informed us that two certificates of deposit for $100,000 each matured on June 3rd and were automatically renewed for 3 more months.  The interest earned was $700.00.  He also presented the cash flow projection for 2004-2005.

It is time for our audit for the fiscal year 2004.  Biff mad a motion and Alice a second to retain Jim Attkisson & Associates to complete the audit.

A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Mo to approve the treasurer’s report.

We will plan to get in touch with Be-Mac as early as November to renew the landscaping contract.

Phase 2 of the street light replacement was discussed.  A motion was made by Herb and a second by Alice to accept the street light policy Rich proposed with modifications when necessary.  Biff will talk with the county and Rich will talk with the city of St. Petersburg regarding their plans for lighting on recently annexed streets.

Herb has contacted the county in regards to a small piece of land adjacent to the Earl Maize Recreation Area.  They stated that part of the property is still owned by the county.  Herb will try to arrange for someone from the county to speak with us at our next meeting.  If indeed it is county owned, Herb will go through his Rotary Club to Rotary Club International to ask for a grant to help pay for an addition to the park.  A motion was made by Herb and a second by Biff to investigate this possibility.

The next meeting will be on Monday, September 20, 2004, at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

May 18th 2004

Biff Baker called the meeting to order.

Those present were: Suzanne Hebert, Herb Thompson, Rich Pettit, Biff Baker, Fred Petty, Mo Barnum and Alice Rogers.

A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Rich to approve the minutes.

It was noted in the treasurer’s report that we lost the Gatorscape case.

Dawn O’Neill, our attorney, presented the case for FSCSD and former chairman, Jack Hebert.  Dawn is preparing a summary of the trial.  At this time we do not know the exact monies we will have to pay to settle this judgment.

Rich presented a bill from Gulf Stream Irrigation.  They had failed to send us a bill for several months.  Mo will contact them and ask whether they take care of just the park.

The cash flow projection now shows an estimated amount of $20,000 to possibly be paid to Gatorscape.  The payment of $100,000 for road maintenance has been moved forward to August due to the uncertainty of these roads being acquired by the county.  Our two Certificates of Deposit for $100,000 each will mature June 3rd.  These will automatically be renewed for 3 more months.  Redemption of these funds will not be needed with the current cash flow projection.  Our projected balance at the end of this fiscal year continues to be about $200,000.

The budget for the fiscal year of 2005 was presented to the county commissioners on May 4th.  It was accepted as presented.  Rich thanked the county for the effort they have made to help improve our community.

The annual report was mailed today, May 18th, to all property owners in Feather Sound.

A motion was made by Alice and a second by Fred to approve the treasurer’s report.

Fred called the county about the open ditches along Bay Meadows and Vizcaya.  The county said they would go 50-50 on the cost of putting pipes in the ditches.

Mo received a packet from Progress Energy regarding Phase 2 of the street lights.  This packet also designated where our lights are at this time.  Fred will go to the county office to ask whether we should be paying the light bills for private roads.

Rich has found two “Street Light Policies” on the Internet.  He will take the most appropriate phrases from the two in an effort to provide us with a more definite form that will be applicable to our community.

The sidewalk workmen uncovered some pipes along the wall behind Bordeaux.  They may belong to our irrigation system used to water the trees.  They are working to correct this problem.

The median improvement has begun on Feather Sound Drive.  The curbing is almost complete around one island.

The next meeting will by on Monday, August 16, 2004, at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

April 19th, 2004

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Suzanne Hebert, Mo Barnum, Rich Pettit, Biff Baker, Alice Rogers, and new member, Herb Thompson.

Guests:  Regina Venzske and Earl Maize.

The minutes were approved with a motion by Rich and a second by Suzanne.

Rich presented the Treasurers Report.  The projected balance at the end of the year 2004 should be approximately $200,000.  This includes $102,000 for road improvements and $50,000 for landscaping the medians between Pelican Landing and the Feather Sound Corporate Center.  These amounts are included for cash flow projection purposes only and are subject to the approval of the road improvement project as suggested by the county. 

The billings from Florida Progress have been adjusted now that all of the lighting has been completed.  The billing is just under $6,000 per month.

The rent for the FSCSD mail box at the Ups store in Feather Sound has been paid for the next year.  This includes an extra three months free rental.

The annual report to the State of Florida was filed in April.  This report included the names and titles of the current board.

A printing company is working on the graphics and a price quote for mailing our annual report to the residents.

There is nothing new to report on our case with Gatorscape.

Rich included a draft of the 2005 budget proposal for discussion.  The budget assumes a one-mill tax rate and a funding request of $240,000. Alice made a motion and Mo a second to accept the 2005 budget proposal.

Biff made a motion and a second by Alice to include the Townhouses of Feather Sound Association in our lighting district.  It was brought to our attention by Biff that these streets were part of the public road system in Feather Sound.

Suzanne reported that the Corporate Center did not want to participate in helping pay for the beautification of the median beside their property.  The phone calls to the management of Pelican Landing was not returned.  A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Mo to accept Be-Mac’s proposal to landscape these medians.  The FSCSD approved the $20,000 to be spent for this project.  This will include curbing, irrigation, and low maintenance plantings.

Mo, our street lighting expert, will begin investigating Phase 2 of the light replacement project.  These are the areas possibly needing more lights: Osprey, Turnberry Court, Feather Sound Drive in front of the church, parts of Whisperwood, and the corner of Feather Sound Drive and Vizcaya.  Mo, Suzanne, Herb, and Earl Maize, a former FSCSD Board Chairman, volunteered to serve on a committee to draft a streetlight policy.

Biff presented a letter and a draft from Charles Norwood, P.L.S. Director for Pinellas County Public Works.  This is a proposed amendment to the FSCSD charter drafted by county officials.  It would let the Public Works Department go to the owner of privately owned roads asking for them to be deeded over to the county.  If this is approved the county commissioners could then approve for these segments to be brought up to county standards.  A motion was made by Suzanne and a second by Mo to approve this amendment with an addendum not to exceed $102,000 for us to pay.

The next meeting will by on Tuesday, May 18, 2004, at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

February 16, 2004

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Rich Pettit, Biff Baker, Fred Petty, Mo Barnum, Alice Rogers and new member Suzanne Hebert.

Guests:  Ann Goodrich, Chris McDonnell, Janet Sutton, and Bob McCabe from Florida Progress.

The minutes were approved with a motion by Rich and a second by Maureen.

Rich presented the financial report and banking activities.  The projected balance at the end of this fiscal year will be approximately $200.000.  The projection, which includes $102,000 for road improvements and $50,000 for additional landscape and lighting improvements to the Egret entrance, are included for discussion purposes only.

The billings from Florida Progress appear to still be incorrect.  The charges seem to include only 37 new poles and the remainder of the poles are under the previous billing rate.

The audit and tax return for FYE 2003 has been completed by Jim Attkisson and Associates.  The final reports are now available and the tax return was signed and mailed to the IRS.

Our annual report to residents has been drafted and approved by the board.  Thank you, Rich, for completing this project.  Biff made a motion and Alice a second to spend up to $2,000 for a company to handle all printing, postage and mailing to distribute this report.

Again, the offer to settle the FSCSD vs. Gatorscape case has been extended in writing to Gatorscape.

The trees have been moved off Feather Sound Drive and relocated to the Earl Maize recreation area.

Bob McCabe, from Florida Progress, reported they would be changing several lights that are too far from the street.  These lights were placed where tall poles were located.  He will canvas the neighborhood and review where additional lights should be placed.

Chris McDonnell asked the board to consider paying for the electricity for the streetlights for Townhomes at Feather Sound Association, Inc.  The roads in this area may be private roads.  Biff will draft a letter to the county attorney to ask her opinion in regards to lights on private roads in Feather Sound.

Maureen reported on the upgrading of the 2 medians between Pelican Landing and the Corporate Center.  The cost to add plants and curbing would be approximately $20,491.  This was tabled at this time.  Suzanne will ask Pelican Landing and the Corporate Center to help with the cost of this upgrade.

Biff will follow through with signing the letter from the county, addressing the letter of intent of interlocal agreement between Pinellas County and Feather Sound Municipal Services Taxing unit, regarding the entrance roadway improvements.

Fred reported that the ditch east and west of the church could be filled, however, the property owners would have to talk to the county and would have to help pay the cost.

The next meeting will be on Monday, April 19, 2004, at 4:00 pm at the Feather Cove Clubhouse.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

January 12, 2004

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Fred Petty, Rich Pettit, Alice Rogers, Mo Barnum, and Biff Baker.

Guests: Lewis Ballina, John Yeager, Don Wallace, Cindy McDonald, Amy Bofman, and Deborah Vanbrunt.

The minutes had an addendum as follows: “The cash flow FYE 2005 shows the reduction of the mileage rate from 1.0 to .75 for discussion….add This is for demonstration purposes only.” They were then approved with a motion by Mo and a second by Fred.

The cash flow YTD Actual and Projection now shows the actual for November and December 2003. The projected balance for the end of this 2004 fiscal year will be approximately $200,000. This projection includes $102,000 for upgrading of several streets and $50,000 for additional improvements to the Egret entrance. These projects are for discussion purposes only. They have not been approved by the county and the consent of Feather Sound residents to use these funds for the project.

Florida Progress discovered they had not closed out the work order for 8 new fixtures installed for the Feather Sound Townhouse homeowners association in December 2002. FSCSD agreed to pay for the fixture rental and electric costs if the homeowners paid for the one-time installation costs. The charges for the past year for these 8 lights are about $1,800 in added costs which Florida Progress has invoiced FSCSD. This has resulted in some confusion for Florida Progress. They issued an invoice in December 2003, rebilling for the year charges, then cancelled that and issued the new invoice to be paid in January 2004. This can be noted on the cash flow statement showing the utility charges.

Jim Attkisson & Associates completed the audit and tax return for FYE 2003. It is in draft form only. The final audit will be issued after the receipt of a signed representation letter. The tax return will then be signed and mailed.

The annual report was discussed. We asked Rich to oversee the compilation of the report. It was discussed, but not voted on, to use a company that handles all printing, postage and mailing of this kind of report.

The FSCSD vs Gatorscape issue has not been resolved. A motion to dismiss the case based on apparent business ownership issues was denied. Nothing further has been received from Gatorscape.

Alice made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report and Mo a second.

The officers for the year 2004 were elected as follows: Biff Baker – Chairman, Mo Barnum – Vice-Chairman, Alice Rogers –Secretary, Rich Pettit – Treasurer, Jeff Huenink will remain on the board and new member Fred Petty was welcomed to the group.

Mo is continuing to work with Florida Progress trying to get all of the poles completed and in working order. It was suggested that we develop a guideline for adding streetlights to some areas in need of more lighting.

The median lights are working better. Mo says when there is a power outage it throws off the timers. She has been resetting when necessary.

Biff informed us that the county says 12 of the oak trees need to be removed in order for the machinery to clean the ditches along Feather Sound Drive. It was suggested these trees be moved to the recreation area. Mo will also contact BEMAC to cap the sprinkler heads that are not being used at this time.

There has been an indication from the owner of the private roads that they would agree to deed the roads over to the county. We are waiting for the county to contact us as to the progress of this matter.

Some suggestions for projects for the calendar year of 2004 were: Second phase of the streetlights Landscaping the median between Pelican Landing and the Corporate Center Landscaping the entrance by Choice, if the roads are deeded to the county Look into a bike path, at least part of the way around Feather Sound Drive Public comment was a suggestion to put pipes in the ditches on Feather Sound Drive instead of them being open. Fred will check with the county on this concern.

The next meeting will be on Monday, February 16, 2004 @ 4:00 pm. The place is yet to be determined.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

November 17, 2003

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Mo Barnum, Biff Baker, Alice Rogers, John Morroni, and Rich Pettit.  Jeff Huenink joined us via speaker phone.

Guests:  Jon Wilson, St. Petersburg Times; Neil Brickfield, City of Safety Harbor; Lee Pitney, Cass Spiegel, Deborah Vanbrunt, and Don Wallace, Feather Sound residents; Kevin Dunn, City of St. Petersburg; Mike Sandler, St. Petersburg Times; Rich Huff, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Department.

The minutes were approved as written.

Rich presented the cash flow statement FYE – 2004 showing the projected balance at the end of the next fiscal year would be approximately $200,000.  This would include the road improvements, if voted on, for $102,000 and $50,000 for landscaping and lighting to the Egret entrance.

The cash flow FYE – 2005 shows the reduction of the mileage rate from 1.0  to .75 for discussion purposes. This is for demonstration purposes only.

The annual audit has been sent to Jim Attkisson & Associates.  It should be completed in three weeks.

Dawn O’Neil received a message from the Gatorscape attorney stating there may be a problem to continue the suit.  Each side has provided copies of necessary documents requested by the court.  We will await further developments on this matter.

Biff asked for approval of the treasurer’s report.  John made a motion and Alice a second.

Florida Progress has begun replacing the streetlights on Whisperwood.  We hope this will be completed by the end of the year.  Thank you, Mo, for all the effort you made to make this happen.

Rich informed us that the Florida Progress numbers for reporting lights no longer working is on the web site.  The numbers are 443-2641 or 1-800-700-8744 then 0.

Regarding the letter from Steve Spratt, Jeff made a motion to support the agreement the county proposed to us to spend approximately $102,00 for a one time undertaking to bring several of the roads to standard.  Rich made a second.  It was approved with John abstaining.

Charlie Norwood looked at the trees from Bay Meadows to Whisperwood.  Several trees need to be moved in order for the county to get to the drainage ditch.  The trees need to be 40’ apart.

The “Earl Maize” signs in the park need to be refurbished.  We will discuss this in 2004.

Mo reported the median lights are still a problem as to when they are coming on in the evening.  She will call Lumminary  Effects to get them on schedule.

Public Comments:

Kevin Dunn, representing Mayor Baker’s office, informed us there would be several small meetings in the neighborhood regarding annexation.  The city wants to know if there is an interest.  They have never annexed a community.

Rich Hunt , from the county sheriff’s office, asked us to call for any needs concerning our community.

The next meeting will be on Monday, January 12, 2004, at 4:00 pm at The Tides of Feather Sound, Suite 700.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

October 20, 2003

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker. Those present were: Mo Barnum, Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, John Morroni, and Alice Rogers. Guest:  Charlie Norwood, Department of Operations for Pinellas County.

The minutes were approved as written.

The annual report was mailed to all Feather Sound homeowners in September. It is time for the annual audit.  Jim Attkisson and Associates have agreed to again perform the audit and prepare the tax return for FYE 2003 at a cost of $2,000.  Alice made a motion and John a second to use this company to perform the audit. Our fiscal year began October, 2003 with a balance of $92,116 and ended September, 2003 with a balance of $157,229.  The projected balance at the end of the next fiscal year is approximately $350,000, excluding any additional capital improvements.  John made a motion and Mo a second to approve the treasurer’s report.

In regards to the Gatorscape, Dawn O’Neill, our attorney in this matter, has scheduled a deposition of plaintiff for the last week in November.  Gatorscape has provided copies of documents, at our request, regarding their billings and other items they will be giving to the court in support of their case.  FSCSD will be providing copies of invoices, cancelled checks and other documents to support our case.

The Feather Sound Country Club golf course people cut our irrigation line as stated in last month’s meeting.  Omni is to be paid $983.51 for repairing the line and this will be deducted from our club water bill.  John made a motion and Mo a second to pay Omni.

The registered agent’s office will be changed from Jack Hebert’s office to Rich Pettit’s office at 333 Third Ave. North, Ste. 200 in St. Petersburg.

Mo called Florida Progress about the lights.  The poles should be in their warehouse next week.  They will begin work as soon as possible.

FSCC did not remove the pepper trees along the common area of the back side of Feather Sound Drive, so apparently they did not agree to pay for the removal.

Charlie informed us that drainage pipes along the western side of Feather Sound Drive had been cleaned.  This should alleviate the flooding in that area.  Charlie will also check on the Oak trees and Biff will follow through to see whether trees need to be removed behind Vizcaya in order for the ditch to be cleaned.

Biff discussed the Pinellas County grant application.  It was decided to possibly pursue this next year.

The next meeting will be on Monday, November 17th at 4:00 pm at The Tides of Feather Sound, Suite 700.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc..

August 18, 2003

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Mo Barnum, John Morroni, Biff Baker, Rich Pettit and Alice Rogers.

Guest:  Charlie Norwood, Department of Operations for Pinellas County.

There was an amendment to the May 19 minutes.  We had asked Dawn to settle the bill with Gatorscape for “not more than” $2,250 if the case is opened again. The minutes were then approved.

Charlie presented a map of the first several streets of Feather Sound, north of Ulmerton Road, showing the public and private sectors.  The patching of streets in this area has been done.  Old pipe connections seem to be causing the problems.

The annual report is ready to send to the Feather Sound homeowners.  Rich will order the labels from the county and get the permit to mail.  The mailing will be done the first part of September.

Rich informed us that Gatorscape has filed an amended motion.  Dawn has been responding on our behalf to request a trial date.

As per Richard our cash balance as of the end of July was $98,197.  Our end of the year projected balance, excluding any additional capital improvements, should be $162,462.  The added lights for the landscape should be about $250.00 per month.  John made a motion and Mo a second to approve the treasurer’s report.

Biff presented the proposal from Florida Power.  Fiberglass poles at Whisperwood will be the first to be replaced.  The poles will need to be ordered and Florida Power has stated that it will take at least 2 months, with no interruptions such as hurricanes or emergencies, to complete the replacements.  Alice made a motion and Mo a second to get started as soon as possible.

Mo informed us that the contract for servicing the front fountain will remain the same.

We will obtain, in writing, permission to change the meter to the main pole and get in writing from the club that we can deduct the cost of doing this from our club water bill since the golf course people cut the main lines to the meter.

The ropes were replaced at the park by Be-Mac.  The opening and closing times are in the park, thanks to Mo.

Mo will speak with Andy Crowe, at the club, regarding the removal of the Brazilian peppers.

The modification of landscaping, under new business, was moved to the next meeting.

John made a motion and Alice a second for Mo to purchase locks for the timers on the lights.

The next meeting will be on Monday, October 20th at 4:00 at The Tides of Feather Sound, Suite 700.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

May 19, 2003

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Mo Barnum, Biff Baker, Jeff Huenink, John Morroni, and Alice Rogers.

Guest: Dawn O’Neill, attorney

In regards to the Gatorscape judgment, Dawn informed us that the garnishment had been overturned. They would have to file their complaint again. We will try to determine the provisions in their contract. Was it an automatic renewal unless terminated? If no termination letters are found Dawn will settle with Gatorscape if they reopen the suit. John made a motion and Biff a second for Dawn to settle the bill with Gatorscape for not more than $2,400 if the case is opened again.

The April treasurer’s report was approved with a motion by Biff and a second by John.

Biff made a motion to approve the expenditures for the permit to mail the annual report to homeowners. John made a second to this motion.

John made a motion and Alice a second to make Rich the registered agent for FSCSD.

The April minutes were approved as read.

John informed us that Rich gave a great presentation to the county commissioner’s workshop on May 13th. The budget was accepted as proposed including the approximate increase of $100,000 in capital expenditures.

Rich sent the financial report and banking activities to the meeting. It showed the cash flow statement 2003, the actual October 2002 through April 2003, and the projected through FYE September 2003. Cash balance at the end of April was $78,132. Projected balance at the end of this fiscal year is $165,012 excluding any additional capital improvements. John made a motion and Jeff a second to accept the treasurer’s report.

John made a motion and Biff a second to reimburse Rich for plastic containers in which to keep records from previous years.

Mo reported that Mike Mozo of Florida Progress suggested that we start the decorative lights on Whisperwood going west to Sandpiper. Biff and Mo will meet again with Mike to finalize the cost of the lighting.

Spiller faxed Biff a proposal of $1,100 to replace the rope at the park. The board felt this was too high. Mo will further look into perhaps using wiring to replace the rope or get another price for the rope.

Mo heard from the county that they would agree to post signs in the park regarding the times for opening and closing. John will contact Liz Warren, parks director, about the signs.

Jeff asked if we wanted to extend the trees past the church. It would cost us $9,000 and that would include the trees, irrigation, and tying into the watering lines of the church. It was agreed to wait until after the lighting is finalized. Biff has the written proposal.

Biff made a motion for Jeff to talk to Feather Sound Country Club about removing the pepper trees along the common area on the north side of Feather Sound Drive. We would also ask the club to pay for the water to irrigate the new plantings. John made a second to this motion. Approval of $20,000 was given to pay for the planting of trees in this common area from Audubon to near Sandpiper.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:30.

The next meeting will be on Monday, June 16th at 4:00 at the Tides of Feather Sound, Suite 700.

Respectfully submitted by,

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

April 21, 2003

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Biff Baker, Rich Pettit, John Morroni, Mo Barnum, and Alice Rogers.

The minutes from March were approved as written.

Rich presented the treasurer’s report. He discussed the financial report and banking activities to date and showed the projections through September 2003.

The proposed budget for 2004 has been sent to Mark Woodard, Pinellas County Budget Office.

Rich received a letter from the Taxpayer Advocate Service stating that our penalties have been abated. This is a onetime situation grant.

At the Gatorscape hearing on April 15th motions were made to dismiss the judgment and bank account garnishment. FSCSD was represented by, attorney and Feather Sound resident, Dawn O’Neill. Rich and Biff attended the hearing. Judge Mary McNary has taken the matter under advisement but promised to make a decision soon.

Feather Sound Country Club was paid $2,400 for the irrigation services between April 2002 and March 2003.

Our new postal address is: 2655 Ulmerton Road, Box 266, Clearwater, FL 33762. The box is located at Mailboxes, Etc. in Feather Sound. Notices have been sent for the address change. New stationary will be ordered.

Biff made a motion and John a second to approve the treasurer’s report.

The annual report is being finalized and will be sent to all of the homeowners in Feather Sound.

Biff made a motion to approve the expenditures for the permit to mail the report and the printing of the report. John made a second to the motion.

Mo and Biff had a meeting with a representative from Progress Energy. The number of light poles being considered would relatively remain the same. The cost for rental of the poles would increase and the illumination would be double. Progress Energy is working on a blueprint to present to us.

Biff called Doug Spiller in regards to replacing the ropes between the poles at the recreation area. John will call Doug again asking to give us an estimated cost.

John made a motion and Alice a second to make Rich the registered agent for FSCSD.

The next meeting will be on Monday, May 19th at The Tides of Feather Sound, Suite 700.

Respectfully submitted by,
Alice Rogers
 Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

March 17, 2003

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker.

Those present were: Jeff Huenink, Mo Barnum, John Morroni, Rich Pettit, Alice Rogers, and Biff Baker.

The minutes were approved as written.

The 2002 audit has been completed by Attkisson & Associates and the tax return has been filed for 2002.

Rich presented an updated financial report and the actual and projected cash flow.

Rich also prepared our 2004 budget request that will be presented to Mark Woodard, Director of Pinellas County Office of Management and Budget. Jeff made a motion to send this request as is to the county. Mo made a second to the motion.

The IRS penalty appeal has not been settled. Rich is waiting to hear a response from an office in Jacksonville.

John alerted Susan Churuti about the garnishment against us by Gatorscape. We will wait to hear from her before hiring our own attorney to handle this situation. We will appropriate $1,000 to dissolve the writ of garnishment. Jeff made a motion to accept this, and Mo made a second to the motion.

A notice arrived from Feather Sound Country Club billing us for irrigation services since April, 2002. We felt the total was too high. Biff made a motion and John a second to offer to pay no more than $200 per month and pay $2400 on the present bill. Jeff will take care of this situation.

Jeff made a motion and Alice a second to accept the treasurer’s report.

The fountains are in and working. They look great! The company will send a maintenance agreement. The approximate cost will be $280 per year. Jeff made a motion to accept this agreement and Biff made a second to the motion.

Jeff made a motion and John a second to appropriate $1500 to replace an oak tree and add some landscaping around the pumps for the fountains.

Mo and Jack had a meeting with Mike Mozo. He has a proposal and a plan for our lighting in Feather Sound. Mo and Biff will meet with him after April 4th.

John made a motion and Jeff a second to open a postal box at the Mail Box Office in Feather Sound so that all of our correspondence will be sent to one location.

Respectfully submitted by

Alice Rogers
 Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

January 20, 2003

The meeting was called to order by Jack Hebert.

Those present were: Jeff Huenink, Jack Hebert, Rich Pettit, Alice Rogers, Biff Baker, and Mo Barnum.

The minutes were approved as written.

 

Rich presented  the treasurer’s report showing our cash flow for 2003

Jeff mad a motion to request funds we have in reserve to help with our revised budget.  Mo made a second to the motion. The IRS notified Rich that they had received his letter.  The request to appeal the penalty is still pending. Rich will call them in February for a status update.

Attkisson & Associates agreed with the same price as our last audit and tax return preparation of $2,000. Our safety deposit box has been opened and signature cards signed.

The revised BE-MAC contract has been signed and returned. 

A motion was made by Jeff and a second by Mo to retain the same officers for the year of 2003:

                        Jack Hebert – Chairman

                        Biff Baker – Vice-Chairman

                        Alice Rogers – Secretary

                        Rich Pettit – Treasurer

Mark Woodard has asked Jack to get samples of water, lights, sewer and garbage bills from the different housings in order to put together a sampling of typical costs in Feather Sound.

The lighting and fountain people will communicate with each other to get the “ball rolling” to complete the front project.

Mo and Jack will meet with a Florida Power representative next week.  Mo received a letter from Florida Power in regards to upgrading our street lights.  Jeff will look into getting information about private lighting companies.

Jack will talk with Doug Spiller about the ropes between the posts at the park and look at the slats missing in the gazebo.

The next meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2003, at 4 pm.

Respectfully submitted by

Alice Rogers

Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

December 16,2002

The meeting was called to order by Jack Hebert.

Those present were: Jack Hebert, Rich Pettit, Alice Rogers, Biff Baker, Jeff Huenink, Mo Barnum and John Morroni.

Guest: David Eachus

The minutes were approved as written.

Rich presented the financial report and banking activities. A letter was sent by Rich to the IRS to appeal a penalty. He was to call the IRS collection department with a status update by December 19, 2002.

A bid for the 2002 audit was made with one company, but we were advised that they could not do audit and return within our price range. Rich recommended we have Attkisson & Associates again and requested an engagement letter from them. Jeff made a motion that we accept this firm and Alice a second. It was approved by the board.

Paperwork is accumulating and Rich thought we should get a safety deposit box for him to store the records for safe keeping. John made a motion that we obtain one and Jeff a second to the motion. It was approved by the board.

Be-Mac has been contacted with a request for contract revisions. Jack put together a plan to meet with the sprinkler company and Be- Mac to look at the problems of park maintenance.

Jack will speak the Earl Maize to locate the electrical part for the pump in order to move forward with the fountain at the front entrance.

Permits will soon be approved for the company to begin the lighting of the front entrance. Jack found approximately 50 lights not working when he scoped the neighborhood about 6 weeks ago. He will contact Florida Power. Mo will look into the cost of purchasing light poles in lieu of renting from Florida Power.

Jack had terminated the contract with Gatorscape, but the owner continued to send bills. Jeff made a motion and John a second to defend the action with Gatorscape.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 20, 2003, at 4 pm.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
 Secretary

 

Feather Sound Community Services District, Inc.

November 18,2002

The meeting was called to order by Biff Baker. Those present were: Mo Barnum, Alice Rogers, Jeff Huenink, Richard Pettit, and Biff Baker. Guests: Jan Waldron and Van Collier

The minutes were approved as written.

Van, of Luminary Effects Landscape Lighting, presented a screen presentation showing before and after lighting of several communities. He offered two designs, a “Best Design” and a “Value Engineered Design.” The top of the line is designed to make the property look its best. The “Value Engineered Design” reduces the number of fixtures without losing the effect.

After much discussion and Van showing us large charts of the area to be illuminated, Alice made a motion and Mo a second to go with the “Value Engineered Design.” This can be upgraded if necessary. The cost of the chosen design is $30,191.80. Rich will send a check for 50% so the necessary paperwork can be processed. Hopefully, this will be completed within 90 days.

Rich presented the cash flow statement for this year and the projected cash flow for 2003. He also gave us copies of the new document for our state certification known as Feathersound Community Services District, Inc.

The landscaping contract with Be-Mac was discussed. A comparison was made of Be-Mac and Gatorscape agreements. Jeff made a motion to approve the Be-Mac contract and Alice a second to the motion. Jeff will talk to Be-Mac about the trash pickup and trash cans to be emptied at the park. He will also make sure they know the areas to be maintained.

Jeff made a motion and Mo a second to accept the treasurer’s report.

We discussed the pros and cons concerning the two bids of The Lake Doctors and Architectural Fountains, Inc. to rejuvenate the fountains at the front entrance. Jeff made a motion and Mo a second to go with Architectural Fountains to install 2 fountains in the pond at a cost of $5,682.00.

Mo will get in touch with Florida Power to get a proposal for new lights throughout The Sound. This will be one of our priorities for the year 2003.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 16,2002, at 4 pm.

Respectfully submitted by
Alice Rogers
Secretary