Tilton Bernstein Management, Inc.

KALORAMA PLACE CONDOMINIUM

A Condominium Unit Owners Association
Board of Directors Meeting
November 28, 2005

Board Members:
Kevin O’Reagan–President
Judi Gold
Frances Hardin
Richard Poole
Ray Pasi

Management Company: David Castleberry, TBM

President Kevin O’Reagan opened the meeting at 7:05pm. A quorum was declared.

The first order of business was the election of Board members. There was some discussion of the terms of the existing members as some were elected to full terms while others had been elected to fill out terms. It was decided that Richard and Kevin had been elected in 2003, Frances and Judi in 2004 and Ray was filling out a term from 2002 and therefore was up for re-election. Richard had also announced his resignation.

Elaine Brenner from Unit #17 was elected without comment to serve the remaining term from Richard Poole.

Jeff Branter from Unit #4 was elected to the position previously held by Ray Pasi.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Ray indicated he had misunderstood the election process and would like to continue on the Board. Since the by-laws require a minimum of 5 members, Ray was re-stated onto the Board without comment.

President's report

Condo Fees: Condo fees will be raised 10% for 2006 because as the property ages, there will be a need to continue to have funds available and this increase will have prevent the need for a special assessment.

Wood Rot: As noted in the 2005, $254,000 was spent on wood rot replacement, which was more than anticipated. While the replacement of some dining room areas was expected, as the inspections continued it was clear that wood rot was common throughout the complex.

A question was raised as to how the repairs were prioritized. David responded that much of the work was based on reacting to issues; there were leaks from windows, balconies, roofs, and roof decks. The Board voted unanimously to include patios in the repairs as they were not specifically cited in the by-laws.

Need for Funds: In addition to possible emergency expenditures, it is critical to put some money away for possible roof repairs, caulking and other maintenance.

Landscaping: The contract for landscaping was changed to Denshfield after problems with T&J. Some of the landscaping was lost in July and August and will need to be replaced this spring. Pavers have replaced grass on 19th street. Consideration is being given to putting in an automatic sprinkler system in the areas that don’t get enough rain.

All the landscaping around building 3 will be replaced. The plants have been removed because of water damage.

Residents are requested to water the plants at their front door.

A question was raised as to whether homeowners can petition the Board to make changes, do their own replacements and landscape their own front yards. The response was no.

Security: Security cameras have been installed in both common garages. They have already provided information on how a person was able to get into one of the garages so that problem was solved.

Common garage users are strongly urged to use the bolt latch on the pedestrian door to discourage intruders.

A request was made for signage outside the garages, stating they are under surveillance. The Board agreed this would be a good idea.

Animals: The Board voted 3-1 (?) to limit the number of animals to no more than two totaling not more than 50 lbs. Kevin noted that the Board has the authority to make such rules and that the by-laws already state that...
* See Board minutes of_______

Many questions and concerns were raised on this issue.

  • When will this begin to be enforced?
  • Will it be retroactive?
  • Why was this done?
  • How is 50 lbs to be determined?
  • Will this provision put us at a disadvantage competitively?

Additionally, concerns were raised that some have bought units believing they could have a large dog; they knew there was a limit of 2 pets, but there was not a weight limit. It was also suggested that final language be included in all resale cover letters. Due to the intense discussion, the Board agreed to re-visit the issue at an open Board meeting.

Parking Spaces: An amendment to the by-laws prohibiting parking spots to be sold separately from the units. A neighborhood resident had purchased an original unit largely for the parking spot. As he decided to sell the unit, he also decided to keep the parking spot. The by-laws do not address this issue. It was also noted that when originally constructed the building permit including a zoning requirement that there be one parking spot for each unit.

A number of questions and concerns were raised:

  • Can this be required of people who already live here and own their parking?
    The Board should not have the authority to make/change rules on issues of this importance; consideration should be given to incorporating the language into the by-laws (which would require a vote of the owners).
    If this language is adopted, the Board should be given the right of first refusal to purchase the unit or parking spot.
  • What if for example, Zip Car wants to purchase a spot?
  • Why should "I" (owner) give up property rights based on hypothetical fears?
    The deed for the unit and the parking spot are separate
  • Should the restriction be limited to those spots in the common garages?

After some discussion, Frances moved to "table" the motion and the Board agreed to revisit the issue and call a special homeowners' meeting.

Other issues: Because of no city lighting at 20th and Kalorama, someone was mugged and a request was made to have lighting installed.

When renting a unit, do you have to register the tenant?
Yes

Police have been called to 1935 Belmont Rd (rented unit) because of noise and other disturbances. David reported that he has gotten in touch with the property managers.

How much of the Complex is rented? 12-13 units (about 10%).

Respectfully Submitted,

Judi Gold