Tradewinds Apartments of Marco
Island
Tradewinds Apartments of Marco
IslandBoard Minutes
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Wednesday, September 01, 2010 They are working on the 5th floor and working their way down. Talking to the Supervisor, Ray, the piping should be completed by end of September or 1st week of October. Once that is completed then they will do the Deco Shield to cover the pipes and then do the fire hydrant.
Update on Fire Sprinkler System
- Susan Niwinski @ 11:17 EST
Both stairwells are complete.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010 Sometime in September we are having Al Porter Restoration do the waterproofing of all balconies and minor repairs to some balconies. That will take 2 months to complete the job (depending on the weather).
Update of the exterior painting of the building & railings
- Susan Niwinski @ 09:00 EST
The painters are working on the last stack (08 stack) and should be done by the end of September or sooner (depending on the weather).
Tuesday, August 03, 2010 MARC AND RON OUR MAINTENANCE STAFF WILL BE GOING INTO THE UNITS TO REPLACE THE BALCONY LIGHTS FOR THE NEXT 2 MONTHS. THANK YOU. MANAGEMENT
Replacement of balcony lights
- Susan Niwinski @ 15:27 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
Wednesday, July 21, 2010 A-1 FIRE EQUIPMENT STAFF ARE INSTALLING THE FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM IN THE HALLWAYS AND IN THE A/C CLOSETS IN THE HALLWAYS. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE STOP BY THE OFFICE.
Fire Sprinkler System
- Susan Niwinski @ 11:24 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS
THE MANAGEMENT
Friday, July 09, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALCONY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK (DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER). MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM EFFECTIVE MAY 17, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. EFFECTIVE JULY 9, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT.
Update on exterior painting of building & railings-7/9/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 16:24 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
MANAGEMENT
EFFECTIVE MAY 27, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
02 STACK (1200, 1102, 1002, 902, 802, 702, 602, 502, 402, 302, 202 & 102).
04 STACK (1202, 1104, 1004, 904, 804, 704, 604, 504, 404, 304, 204 & 104).
06 STACK (1006, 906, 806, 706, 606, 506, 406, 306, 206 & 106).
08 STACK (1106, 1008, 908, 808, 708, 608, 508, 408, 308, 208 & 108).
Thursday, June 17, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALCONY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK (DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER). MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM EFFECTIVE MAY 27, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE. EFFECTIVE MAY 17, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT.
Update on exterior painting of the building and railings-6/17/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 13:57 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
MANAGEMENT
EFFECTIVE MAY 12, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT.
00 STACK (1100, 1000, 900, 800, 700, 600, 500, 400, 300 & 200).
02 STACK (1200, 1102, 1002, 902, 802, 702, 602, 502, 402, 302, 202 & 102).
04 STACK (1202, 1104, 1004, 904, 804, 704, 604, 504, 404, 304, 204 & 104).
06 STACK (1006, 906, 806, 706, 606, 506, 406, 306, 206 & 106).
Thursday, May 27, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALCONY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK (DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER). MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM EFFECTIVE MAY 12, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. EFFECTIVE MAY 27, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
Update on exterior painting of the building & railings-5/27/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 09:00 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
MANAGEMENT
EFFECTIVE APRIL 23, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
12 STACK (1208, 1110, 1012, 912, 812, 712, 612, 512, 412, 312, 212 & 110).
10 STACK (1206, 1108, 1010, 910, 810, 710, 610, 510, 410, 310 & 210).
00 STACK (1100, 1000, 900, 800, 700, 600, 500, 400, 300 & 200).
02 STACK (1200, 1102, 1002, 902, 802, 702, 602, 502, 402, 302, 202 & 102).
Friday, May 21, 2010 All Marco Island water and wastewater customers endured a 9.5 percent rate increase last October; will see another 10.5 percent increase this October and if City Council approves the newest proposal, some will see hikes of more than 50 percent in their base rate. The base rate is the consistent monthly charge irrelevant of usage. The proposed changes in base rates for various customer types may be somewhat beneficial to single family homeowners, while many condominium dwellers will see significant hikes. “This is a terribly, terribly important issue that tends to put the condo world against the single family world, which nobody wants,” said Dick Bergmann of the city’s utility advisory committee. A utility rate study by the five-member utility advisory committee sought to make base rates more equitable between customer types. Customer categories include multifamily with individual meters, master-metered condos, commercial and single family residential, among others. In doing so, customers who may have enjoyed the lowest rates for years, the master-metered condominiums, will see compounded rate increases exceeding 25 percent by October. Nearly 1,000 customers in the North Marco Utility will see a 50 percent increase in their wastewater base rate. If approved, master-metered condos, which are condos with one meter for all units, would see an average increase coming in October of about $15 per month per unit. Customers in many of the island’s areas aren’t pleased with the prospects. Others, such as Amadeo Petricca, have said previously that it’s way past due. Craig Woodward, president of North Marco Utility, which is privately owned and pays the city for waste water services, said there are more than 800 customers in his area who can’t absorb such hefty increases. Woodward wasn’t able to speak on Monday because public input was cut short due to time, but council will hold another public workshop in June. “I’m going to have 800 people here,” Woodward said after the meeting. “It’s not coming down the pipeline, that’s why I’m here,” continued Woodward, who is also an attorney on the island. Rate structure change proposals come from the notion that the utility needs to make up for five years of not changing the rates to ensure the utility, purchased in 2003, is covering its fixed costs in the most equitable way possible. Fixed costs include pipe maintenance, plant upkeep and paying off the bonds from the city’s purchase, among other expenses, that don’t change based on the amount of water used. Several council members said they were skeptical about the proposal. Councilman Larry Magel said he thought cost based on usage was most equitable. That idea doesn’t work with a utility that has expensive fixed costs, said Rob Ori, the city-hired consultant from Public Resources Management Group. Currently 80 percent of the utility’s costs remain even if no one used any water, he said. The proposal brings the current base rates up from covering 42 percent of the utility’s fixed costs to covering 50 percent of the utility’s fixed costs. It won’t bring in additional money to the utility, but makes more of the revenue steady while usage is steadily declining, Ori said. Covering all of the fixed costs in the base rate would be too astronomically high, he added. Councilman Bill Trotter said that in that sense, the proposal may be a compromise. A base rate that covers much of the fixed costs reduces the financial risks for the city and is favorable for bonding, Ori reported. If council approves the recommendations, customers in Key Marco, Goodland and Marco Island’s single family residential users could see a relative relief in base rates, but either way, officials said, rates need to go up for everyone. View the utility rate proposal in related documents to the upper left. Source: MarcoNews.com
Increases exceeding 25 percent by October.
- Harry Scott @ 15:51 EST
MARCO ISLAND — Some Marco Island utility customers are going to be down in the dumps if City Council approves a proposal considered on Monday that will increase their water and wastewater rates again. Other islanders, will be pleased that fairness was considered in the reworking of the city’s utility rate structure.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALCONY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK (DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER). MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM EFFECTIVE MAY 12, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. They are doing a great job with the painting. It seems to be moving along quicker.
Update on exterior painting of the building & railings-5/11/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 15:26 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
MANAGEMENT
EFFECTIVE APRIL 23, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
14 STACK (1014, 914, 814, 714, 614, 514, 414, 314, 214 & 112).
12 STACK (1208, 1110, 1012, 912, 812, 712, 612, 512, 412, 312, 212 & 110).
10 STACK (1206, 1108, 1010, 910, 810, 710, 610, 510, 410, 310 & 210).
00 STACK (1100, 1000, 900, 800, 700, 600, 500, 400, 300 & 200).
Thursday, April 29, 2010 http://visitmarco.com/tradewinds/pdf/TWwaterbillnotice.pdf
URGENT LETTER REGARDING WATER RATES
- Harry Scott @ 14:34 EST
City to raise water rates.... to condos. Condo's allready pay more than residents. If this happens your condo maintenance fees will go up. Read more to fight this unjust rate increase.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010 Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are the most frequently observed turtles in Florida waters, with more than 90 percent of the nesting activity in the world occurring on Florida’s beaches. Now is the time for boaters to navigate carefully off of the coastline and keep an eye out for the mating Loggerhead sea turtles. Nesting season begins on May 1, with courtship activity occurring several weeks before the actual nesting season. Females nest a few weeks after mating. Nesting on Marco Island usually occurs between May and August, with hatchlings emerging through Oct. 31. Loggerhead nesting occurs on sandy beaches above the high tide line. Most females return to the same nesting beach each year. The female crawls ashore at night, digs a shallow pit and then using her hind flippers makes a nest cavity, called a clutch, where she deposits an average of 100 Ping-Pong The eggs are surrounded by a thick, clear mucus covering. Once the eggs are deposited, the rear flippers fill and cover the nest with sand and the turtle returns to the sea. Females may nest every two to three years resulting in one to seven nests per season. The female can storage sperm from one or more males in the oviducts without additional mating needed to fertilize her eggs. Sometimes a turtle may arrive and for many reasons return to the sea without digging a clutch. This is commonly known as a false crawl. On Marco Island this is normal, with about 50 percent of the turtles visiting the beach before actually laying a nest. Last season, Marco Island beaches were fortunate to have 55 nests documented with 46 of these hatching producing close to 4,000 hatchlings. (The nine nests that did not hatch were due to six of the nests being washed out in an early season storm; the three others were determined to be “false crawls” and not nests.)
SEA TURTLES ARE HERE: LIGHTS OFF ON BEACH MAY 1--OCT 31.
- Harry Scott @ 08:35 EST
SEA TURTLES ARE HERE: LIGHTS OFF ON BEACH MAY 1--OCT 31. Nesting season begins on May 1, with courtship activity occurring several weeks before the actual nesting season. Large fines for violating the light Ordinance along the Beach.
ball-shaped eggs. The depth of the cavity is determined by the length of the stretched hind flipper. The eggs are white, soft and round, measuring about 1-3/4 inches.
Monday, April 26, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALCONY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK (DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER). MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM EFFECTIVE APRIL 23, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
Update on Exterior Painting of the building & railings-4/26/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 13:34 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
MANAGEMENT
EFFECTIVE MARCH 15, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT.
16 STACK (1112, 1016, 916, 816, 716, 616, 516, 416, 316, 216 & 114).
14 STACK (1014, 914, 814, 714, 614, 514, 414, 314, 214 & 112).
12 STACK (1208, 1110, 1012, 912, 812, 712, 612, 512, 412, 312, 212 & 110).
10 STACK (1206, 1108, 1010, 910, 810, 710, 610, 510, 410, 310 & 210).
Thursday, April 15, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALCONY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK (DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER). MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM There was a final inspection on the 15 and 17 stacks on April 14th and 15th. Once Commex does the touch up work on those stacks, then they will bring the swing station to the front north side of the building and will be working on the stacks listed below. The work might start the week of the 19th. I will keep you posted.
Update on the exterior painting of the building and railings 4/15/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 16:18 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
MANAGEMENT
EFFECTIVE MARCH 15, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT.
16 STACK (1112, 1016, 916, 816, 716, 616, 516, 416, 316, 216 & 114).
EFFECTIVE APRIL 19, 2010????-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
14 STACK (1014, 914, 814, 714, 614, 514, 414, 314, 214 & 112).
12 STACK (1208, 1110, 1012, 912, 812, 712, 612, 512, 412, 312, 212 & 110).
10 STACK (1206, 1108, 1010, 910, 810, 710, 610, 510, 410, 310 & 210).
Friday, March 12, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALCONY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK (DEPENDING ON THE WEATHER). MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM EFFECTIVE MARCH 15, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE & SCREEN DOORS NEED TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT.
Update on the Painting of the Building & Railings-3/12/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 16:07 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
MANAGEMENT
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 6, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE NEEDS TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
11 STACK (1207, 1111, 1011, 911, 811, 711, 611, 511,411, 311, 211 & 109).
13 STACK (1209, 1113, 1013, 913, 813,713, 613, 513, 413, 213 & 111).
15 STACK (1210, 1114, 1015, 915,815,715,615,515, 415,315,215 & 113).
17 STACK (1115, 1017, 917, 817, 717, 617, 517, 417, 317, 217 & 115).
16 STACK (1112, 1016, 916, 816, 716, 616, 516, 416, 316, 216 & 114).
Tuesday, March 09, 2010 To Whom It May Concern: A-I Fire Equipment installed a Notifier by Honeywell, which is an addressable, intelligent Fire Alarm System for the protection and safety of owners and tenants in the Tradewinds Apartments. This alarm system is programmed to notify a monitoring company that will call the fire department in the event of a fire and the alarm will also notify the owners/tenants through a speaker system to give the residents enough time to evacuate the premises. Each unit has a fire alarm system with a speaker system inside the units. A one-bedroom unit has one fire alarm system with a speaker system in the bedroom and a two-bedroom unit has two fire alarm systems with speaker systems one in each bedroom. New devices, pull stations and elevator recall have been added to comply with the new NFPA-72 code rulings for the protection of life and property. Sincerely,
A-I Fire Equipment installed a Notifier by Honeywell
- Harry Scott @ 20:45 EST
February 17, 2010
Susan M. Niwinski
Manager
Tradewinds Apts of Marco Island
Rules for Companies and Individuals Doing Work in Units
- Harry Scott @ 16:25 EST Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Unloading and Parking: Material Removal and Clean up: Tools and materials shall not be stored anywhere on the grounds or in the common areas of the condominium, overnight or between work periods. You will be responsible for complete clean up of the loading area, elevators, and hallways of all debris associated with your work to the satisfaction of the Manager. This also applies to an owner doing his own work. Any clean up required to be done by the Tradewinds staff will result in a mandatory $50.00 minimum charge. This payment will be due within 24 hours. Any violation of the above rules at the Board's discretion will carry a $100.00 fine for each violation and you a will not be allowed to do any further work until fines and fees are paid. Our suggestion is that the owners subtract these amounts from their contractor’s bill. * * * Owners please give this to any and all rental agents, decorators, etc., who may be acting on your behalf to coordinate work done in your unit
Rules for Companies and Individuals Doing Work in Units
INDIVIDUALS OR COMPANIES PERFORMING SERVICES ANYWHERE ON SITE MUST PROVIDE:
· A COPY OF A CURRENT COLLIER COUNTY LICENSE, APPROPRIATE FOR THE SERVICES PERFORMED
· A COPY OF THEIR LIABILTY INSURANCE
· NECESSARY BUILDING PERMITS Per Florida Building code 105.1
Sign In:
You will sign in each day with the Tradewinds office prior to beginning work. At that time you will present a copy of your license and certificate of insurance, if not currently on file. The Manager, depending on the "scope of work" will designate work area.
All work, including clean up, shall be completed between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday ... NO WEEKENDS! ! Except for emergency repairs and furniture deliveries.
Parking in the service entrance area is limited to 10 minutes for load/unload of tools and supplies. After loading/unloading operations are completed, vehicles may be parked in any of the visitor parking spaces unless otherwise directed by the Manager. All vehicles must be removed from the premises at the end of the workday.
Under no circumstances are the dumpsters to be used at any time! All materials must be taken with you. Unit owners doing their own work must also remove debris from the premises. This rule will be strictly enforced. No personal furniture shall be discarded in the dumpster.
TRADEWINDS RULES FOR CONTRACTORS
- Harry Scott @ 16:24 EST HOURS 8:30AM-4:00PM -MONDAY THRU FRIDAY. START CLEANUP AT 4:00 PM YOU MUST BE OUT BY 4:30PM. NO WORKING ON WEEKENDS. YOU MUST SIGN IN EVERY DAY AT THE OFFICE. COMPANIES PERFORMING SERVICES ANYWHERE ON SITE MUST PROVIDE: ALL CONTRACTORS AND DELIVERY PERSONAL MUST USE SERVICE AREA ENTRANCE ONLY LOCATED BY THE WHITE GATES WHEN ENTRANCE AND EXITING THE BUILDING. THERE IS A SECURITY CAMERA THERE AND A BUTTON TO BUZZ YOU IN. OFF LOAD ALL EQUIPMENT FROM TRUCK THEN MOVE TRUCK TO PARKING AREA ALONG SEAVIEW COURT (CLOSE TO ENTRANCE BY STREET). NO CONTRACTOR VECHILES ARE TO BE PARKED IN VISITORS PARKING, HANDYCAPPED PARKING OR SERVICE DRIVEWAY. (NO EXCEPTIONS). THE MANAGER, DEPENDING ON THE “SCOPE OF THE WORK BEING DONE “ MAY DESIGNATE A SPECIFIC AREA FOR YOU TO WORK. PAPER OR SOME TYPE OF PROTECTIVE COVERING MUST BE PLACE ON CARPET FROM ELEVATOR TO UNIT DOOR. THIS MUST BE SECURED TO PREVENT IT FROM MOVING WHEN WALKED ON. ON FRIDAYS THAT PAPER OR PROTECTION HAS TO BE PICKED UP AND PUT BACK ON MONDAYS. TILE FLOORS MUST ALSO BE PROTECTED FROM DAMAGE. IF DOING TILE, GROUT, PAINTING OR SEALING WORK DO NOT WASH OR FLUSH GROUT, SEALENT, PAINT OR CAULKING DOWN THE TOILET, SINKS. OR LAUNDRY ROOMS SINK. IF CUTTING TILE ON BALCONY YOU MUST KEEP DUST FROM LEAVING THE BALCONY BY PUTTING UP A DROP CLOTH OR PROTECTIVE BARRIOR ON OR OVER THE RAILING. USE THE SERVICE ELEVATOR IF YOU HAVE EQUIPMENT, SUPPIES OR TOOLS TO TRANSPORT. ELEVATOR PADS ARE AVAILABLE TO PROTECT THE INTERIOR OF THE ELEVATOR CAR. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE. YOU MUST CLEAN UP YOUR MESS IN THE ELEVATOR, HALLWAYS, ENTRANCES, AND WORK AREAS. THE SERVICE ELEVATOR IS THE ONE FURTHEST TO YOUR LEFT. DO NOT USE OUR DUMPSTERS. YOU MUST REMOVE ALL CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS OR DEBRIS BY TAKING THEM WITH YOU FOR PROPER OFF SITE DISPOSAL OFF SITE. Any violation of the above rules at the Board's discretion will carry a $100.00 fine for each violation.
TRADEWINDS RULES FOR CONTRACTORS
· A COPY OF A CURRENT COLLIER COUNTY LICENSE, APPROPRIATE FOR THE SERVICES PERFORMED
· A COPY OF THEIR LIABILTY INSURANCE
· NECESSARY BUILDING PERMITS Per Florida Building code 105.1
Wi-Fi access point installed in our library.
- Harry Scott @ 09:43 EST A new Wi-Fi INTERNET access point has been installed in the Tradewinds library. The SSID name of this access point is "Library". No key code is necessary to use this site. You may also be able to log on to the "Library" access point from limited areas by the Tiki Huts.
Improved Wi-Fi Access
Permits to be obtained prior to the beginning of work
- Harry Scott @ 09:26 EST All Marco Island Multi-Family Property Owners, The Florida Building Code Section 105.1 requires permits to be obtained prior to the beginning of work, to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or to erect, install, remove, re-install, convert or replace any exterior doors, windows, electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing components or systems which are regulated by this code. City of Marco Island Ordinance 09-03 Section 105.3.8 states all construction within the city limits shall be performed through and supervised by a licensed general contractor. Florida Statute 489 and Article III, Chapter 22 of the Code of Laws & Ordinances for Collier County, define the licenses that are required to contract the above-described work. General or Building contractors are always required to do remodeling work in Multi-Family Buildings. Unit owners cannot contract the work themselves. Replacement of built-in cabinets, counter tops, lavatories, sinks, tubs and shower surround,, all require a building permit. Installation of drapes, wall coverings, painting, carpet and floor the do not require a permit. Wall tiling that requires the replacement of the backing board also requires -a permit. Also, the pulling, replacement, and resetting of toilets above the first floor, requires a Plumbing Permit (available at a reduced rate). The integrity of the firewalls must be maintained and inspected by the Building Department and Fire Department to insure the proper fire-rated materials are installed correctly and to insure that combustible materials are not concealed within Tall Buildings (per Sec 603.1 Florida Building Code). It is not the Building Department's intent to drive up the cost of a job (large or small) with permit fees. But we intend to protect the lives and property in the adjoining units and common areas. If the intended work doesn't fit in any of the categories listed above, call the Building Department to clarify the scope of work and whether a permit will be required. Thank you, Source: Robert H. Mahar, Building Official City of Marco Island
January 21, 2010
Robert H. Mahar Building Official
City of Marco Island
(239) 389-5058
Friday, February 26, 2010
Tradewinds Annual Meeting
- Harry Scott @ 08:29 EST
The election result from the 2010 Tradewinds Annual Meeting are in with the following owners elected to the board: John Battaglia, Robert Brockman and Rich Kaplan. The meeting was followed by brunch in the social room at Tradewinds. Many thanks to all who helped make this year’s annual meeting a success.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE BEING ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALONCY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK. MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM THANK YOU. FIRST SECTION -(01, 03, 05 and 07 stacks) are done except for a few touch ups. The 09 stack is completely done. The second section they are sanding down the railings, door and window frames. We are being told they should be done in 2 months which would make it the second week in March with that section. Keep in mind it also depends on the weather.
Update on the Painting of the Building & Railings -1/27/10
- Susan Niwinski @ 11:56 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
MANAGEMENT
09 STACK (1205, 1109, 1009, 909, 809, 709, 609, 509, 409, 309 & 209)
05 STACK (1204, 1105, 1005, 905, 805, 705, 605, 505, 405, 305, 205 & 105).
03 STACK (1203, 1103, 1003, 903, 803, 703, 603, 503, 403, 303, 203 & 103).
01 STACK (1201, 1101, 1001, 901, 801, 701, 601, 501, 401, 301, 201 & 101).
SECTION TWO
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 11, 2010-BALCONY FURNITURE NEEDS TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
11 STACK (1207, 1111, 1011, 911, 811, 711, 611, 511,411, 311, 211 & 109).
13 STACK (1209, 1113, 1013, 913, 813,713, 613, 513, 413, 213 & 111).
15 STACK (1210, 1114, 1015, 915,815,715,615,515, 415,315,215 & 113).
17 STACK (1115, 1017, 917, 817, 717, 617, 517, 417, 317, 217 & 115).
Wednesday, November 25, 2009 All balcony furniture is to be inside the unit when they are working on a section. The windows and sliding glass doors will be covered with plastic for about 10 days. SECTIONS: COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN WORKING ON THE SECTION LISTED BELOW JANUARY 11, 2010. For the weekend, the furniture can go out on Friday after 4:30PM and in before 8:00AM Monday. There will be noise when the painters are scraping the windows, doors, and railings down to metal to prepare for painting. The completion date of this project is unknown at this time. There will be a notice on the bulletin board in the lobby as to which section(s) they are working on. If you have any questions, please contact the office at 239 394-7195.
Update on Painting of the Building & Railings-12/29/09
- Susan Niwinski @ 13:29 EST
We are having the building and railings painted.
Units 209 thru 1109 & 1205
Units 107 thru 1107
Units 105 thru 1105 & 1204
Units 103 thru 1203
Units 101 thru 1201
Units 109 & 211 thru 1111 & 1207
Units 111 & 213 thru 1113 & 1209
Units 113 & 215 thru 1015 & 1114 & 1210
Units 115 & 217 thru 1017 & 1115
We are being told this will take 2 months to complete (depending on the weather).
After 4:30PM, Monday thru Friday, some furniture can be put onto the balcony but needs to be brought in before 8:00AM the next day. The balconies will be dirty.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Update on drywall
- Susan Niwinski @ 09:45 EST
The drywall work is complete. You can now have your ceiling(s) painted.
Friday, October 30, 2009 COMMEX PAINTING WILL BEGIN PAINTING THE STACKS WITH A TENTAVITE SCHEDULE LISTED BELOW. I WILL POST CHANGES AS NEEDED. WHEN THEY PAINT THE STACKS KEEP IN MIND YOUR WINDOW SCREENS SHOULD BE IN YOUR UNIT, NO FURNITURE ON THE BALCONY, HURRICANE SHUTTERS OPENED & YOU ARE ADVISED NOT TO BE ON THE BALONCY WHEN THEY ARE DOING YOUR STACK. THE PAINTERS WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR WINDOWS COVERED FOR ABOUT 1 WEEK. IT WILL TAKE ABOUT 2 OR 3 WEEKS TO FINISH A STACK. MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM MANAGEMENT WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21TH WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28TH TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD *EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 10, 2009-BALCONY FURNITURE NEEDS TO BE INSIDE YOUR UNIT. THE PAINTERS WILL BE CROSSING OVER THE STACKS TO DO WORK WITHOUT NOTIFICATION TO THE OFFICE.
Revised-11/13/09 Update on Exterior Painting of the Building
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:29 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THANK YOU.
09 STACK (1205, 1109, 1009, 909, 809, 709, 609, 509, 409, 309, & 209).
07 STACK (1107, 1007, 907, 807, 707, 607, 507, 407, 307, 207 & 107).
05 STACK (1204, 1105, 1005, 905, 805, 705, 605, 505, 405, 305, 205 & 105).
*03 STACK (1203, 1103, 1003, 903, 803, 703, 603, 503, 403, 303, 203 & 103).
*01 STACK (1201, 1101, 1001, 901, 801, 701, 601, 501, 401, 301, 201 & 101).
Tuesday, October 13, 2009 Commex Painting should be done with the pressure washing of the roof by the end of this week. I was told they are working on the gulf side with the 01 and 09 stacks. They will have 2 crews and it will take about 2 weeks for each stack. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the office 239-394-7195.
Update on the Fire Alarm System & Exterior Painting of the Building
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:11 EST
A-1 Fire Equipment should be done by the end of this week. Otis Elevator is behind. Otis employee is coming in at night time and also on week-ends to finish the job. He should be done in 2 or 3 weeks if he doesn't run into any problems. Once Otis is done then we will have our final inspection.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009 They will pressure wash the roof first and that will take 2 weeks. When they pressure wash the roof above your stack please do not go on the balcony. When they are done with the roof they will start on the stacks. Once I get more information I will post it. Monday thru Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thank you. Management
Exterior Painting of the Building
- Susan Niwinski @ 16:07 EST
Commex Painting will start the exterior painting of the building Monday, October 5th. It will take a few months to finish the job.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Update on Fire Alarm System-9/24/09
- Susan Niwinski @ 10:25 EST
The Marco Island Fire Department came into the building on Tuesday, September 22nd to do an inspection. We passed. Now A-1 Fire Equipment is hooking up the devices (boxes & wiring) for the Fire Alarm System. The drywall work is to start shortly.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Exterior Painting of the Building & Railings
- Susan Niwinski @ 09:21 EST
The exterior painting of the building and railings is scheduled for the 1st week of October. Please arrange to have your window screens removed and put into your unit.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009 John, from the Fire Department came to do an inspection on Tuesday. We passed on 1 inspection but failed on another. A-1 Fire Equipment ran the wiring for the Fire Alarm System in the hallways into the units. A-1 Fire Equipment will have to cut an 8 x 8 inch hole in each bathroom ceiling so they can put fire caukling around the hole which was made from the hallway. From my understanding there are some units that will not be effected by this. Once I have more information I will post it. Once again the association is responsible for the drywall and the owners are responsible for the painting.
Regarding Revised August 4, 2009 Update on the Fire Alarm System
- Susan Niwinski @ 15:09 EST
Please disregard the revised August 4, 2009-Update on the Fire Alarm System regarding how many holes in your unit. Things have changed.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009 #3 Notice that the vote was successful was provided to each member by mail, hand delivery and/or electronic transmission on or about July 2, 2009, which is within thirty (30) days of the membership vote. The Membership was notified that each owner selling his or her unit must provide a copy of the Certificate to any purchaser prior to closing and each owner intending to lease or rent his or her unit must provide the Certificate to any prospective lessee or tenant. You can go to the web site www.visitmarco.com/tradewinds/ and print a recorded copy of the Certificate, which is titled "Affidavit of Compliance with Section 718.112(2)(1), Florida Statutes".
Recorded Copy of Certificate-To Forego Fire Sprinkler Retrofitting
- Susan Niwinski @ 09:36 EST
A notice of the Affidavit of Compliance with Section 718.112(2)(1), Florida Statutes was mailed out in July.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009 A-1 FIRE EQUIPMENT WILL BE DOING WORK IN THE BUILDING STARTING MONDAY, JUNE 15TH, 4 DAYS A WEEK FOR 10 HOURS A DAY. MONDAY THRU THURSDAY – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM SOME UNITS WILL HAVE 1 OR MORE HOLES IN THE CEILING IN DIFFERENT AREAS. ONCE I GET A LIST OF THE UNITS I WILL POST IT. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO STOP BY THE OFFICE. 1 HOLE 11TH FLOOR 10TH FLOOR 9TH FLOOR 8TH FLOOR 7TH FLOOR 6TH FLOOR 5TH FLOOR 4TH FLOOR 3RD FLOOR 2ND FLOOR 1ST FLOOR 8TH FLOOR 7TH FLOOR 6TH FLOOR 5TH FLOOR 4TH FLOOR 3RD FLOOR 2ND FLOOR 4TH FLOOR 3RD FLOOR 1ST FLOOR 4 HOLES 2ND FLOOR
Revised -August 4, 2009 - Update on Fire Alarm System
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:48 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THEY WILL BE WORKING INSIDE THE UNITS INSTALLING FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS IN THE BEDROOM(S) STARTING ON THE 11H FLOOR.
12TH FLOOR
1205
1100, 1106 & 1107
1000,1006, 1007, 1008, 1014 & 1017
900,906,914 & 917
800, 806 & 814
700, 706, 708, 714 & 716
600 & 606
500,506, 508, 514, 516 & 517
400 & 406
300, 306, 308 & 314
200, 206 & 208
106,107, 108, 111, 112 & 115
2 HOLES
9TH FLOOR
908 & 909
807, 808, 809 & 817
709 & 717
609, 616 & 617
507 & 509
409 & 414
316 & 317
216 & 217
3 HOLES
10TH FLOOR
1009
416 & 417
307
114
6TH FLOOR
614
209
THE DRYWALL REPAIRS HAVE BEEN DONE ON THE 11TH, 10TH, 9TH, 8TH, 7TH, 6TH, 5TH, 4TH, 3RD, 2ND AND 1ST FLOORS. THE CEILINGS ARE READY TO BE PAINTED (OWNER'S RESPONSIBILITY). SOME UNITS WILL NEED A SLIGHT PAINT TOUCH UP IN THE BEDROOM(S) WHERE THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS WERE INSTALLED.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Update on Fire Alarm System-June 29, 2009
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:02 EST
There was an issue on Thursday or Friday where the A-1 workers were cutting holes (1 or 2) in the ceiling of certain units. Marc called one of the owners, Dave Price, and questioned him about the holes. Dave Price said he would stop by the office on Monday and look at the situtation. Marc and I had a meeting with Dave Price of A-1 regarding certain units they had to cut 1 or 2 holes in different areas in the ceilings. Dave Price had stated that they have tried their hardest to avoid making any holes but they just couldn't. I will have a listing of the units posted once I get the information. The Association will take care of the drywall and the unit owner will be responsible for the painting.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Update-Fire Alarm System
- Susan Niwinski @ 15:41 EST
A-1 has done the work in the units on the 11th, 10th and 9th floors. They will be working in the units on the 8th floor on Monday.
POOL
- Susan Niwinski @ 15:39 EST
The pool will be open Saturday, June 27th.
It will take a day or two for the water to get to the right temperature.
Thursday, June 18, 2009 Proposition #2-Vote on Members' Resolution to Forego Fire Sprinkler Retrofitting Requirements in Section 718.112(2)(1), Florida Statutes Proposition #3-Vote on Members Resolution Authorizing Material Alteration regarding painting of balcony spindles
Results of the Special Members' Meeting-June 18, 2009
- Susan Niwinski @ 17:00 EST
Proposition #1- Vote on Members' Resolution Authorizing Use of Reserve Funds for Non-Scheduled Purposes
PASSED
PASSED
PASSED
Friday, June 12, 2009 A-1 FIRE EQUIPMENT WILL BE DOING WORK IN THE BUILDING STARTING MONDAY, JUNE 15TH, 4 DAYS A WEEK FOR 10 HOURS A DAY. MONDAY THRU THURSDAY – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO
Update on Fire Alarm System
- Susan Niwinski @ 16:22 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THEY WILL BE WORKING INSIDE THE UNITS INSTALLING FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS IN THE BEDROOM(S)(ONE IN EACH BEDROOM) STARTING ON THE 11TH FLOOR.
CALL THE OFFICE.
Saturday, May 23, 2009 Please go to the website under "In Memory of those we have lost" for more information.
Ellen "Lelia" Lynch-Unit #710
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:28 EST
Sorry to say Mrs. Ellen Lynch passed away on Friday, May 22nd.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009 Please go to the website under "Those that we have lost" for more information.
Corrine Flinn-Unit #1207
- Susan Niwinski @ 13:40 EST
Sorry to say Mrs. Corrine Flinn passed away on Wednesday, May 13th.
Monday, May 04, 2009 Please go to the website under "In Memory of those we have lost" for more information.
Mel Kelley- Unit #1008
- Susan Niwinski @ 08:55 EST
Sorry to say Mel Kelley passed away Friday, May 1st at 9:30 PM.
Friday, May 01, 2009 Home address: 5058 Morton Place, Carmel, IN 46033
Mel Kelley-Hospice
- Susan Niwinski @ 09:28 EST
We would like to send our prayers to the Kelley family at this time. Mel Kelley is now being cared for by Hospice. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Mel.
Thursday, April 23, 2009 A-1 FIRE EQUIPMENT WILL BE DOING WORK IN THE BUILDING STARTING MONDAY, APRIL 20TH, 4 DAYS A WEEK FOR 10 HOURS A DAY. MONDAY THRU THURSDAY – 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO STOP BY THE OFFICE.
Update on Installation of Fire Alarm System
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:16 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
THEY WILL STOP MAJOR WORK AT 4:30 PM AND FROM 4:30 PM TILL 6:00 PM THEY WILL DO FIRE CAULKING AND CLEAN UP.
Monday, April 13, 2009 If there are any changes I will keep you informed.
Swimming pool maintenance
- Susan Niwinski @ 15:35 EST
The swimming pool will be closed for the month of June. We have permission to use the Admiralty pool, which is our next door neighbor, while the work is going on. Please stop by the office and pick up the Rules & Regulations for the Admiralty.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009 A-1 FIRE EQUIPMENT WILL BE DOING WORK IN THE BUILDING STARTING, MONDAY, MARCH 30TH, 8:00 AM TILL 4:30 PM. WORK WILL BE DONE IN THE STORAGE ROOMS ONLY AT THIS TIME. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CALL THE OFFICE 239-394-7195.
Installation of Fire Alarm System
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:47 EST
ATTENTION RESIDENTS:
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Statewide Condominium Insurance -ONLINE
- Susan Niwinski @ 13:21 EST
You can request your flood insurance from the website www.statewidecondo.com click on Certificate of Insurance.
Thursday, March 19, 2009 For units that have hurricane shutters a two-page additional form is available to verify to your insurance company that the shutters are in place. This form is an individual responsibility and can be obtained from a person licensed to perform this inspection and documentation.
CONDO INSURANCE
- Susan Niwinski @ 07:18 EST
ATTENTION UNIT OWNERS
Do You Have or Are you interested in having Home Owners Insurance?
This letter is to inform you of some possible savings that you may not be aware of in purchasing property, casualty, liability and wind insurance for your condo. The Tradewinds office has a four-page mitigation form that has been filled out and certified by a licensed engineer. You can ask the office for a copy of this mitigation form and present this form to your insurance agent. This will ensure that you are receiving the maximum credit for having a condo in such a well-constructed building.
Friday, March 06, 2009 Statewide Condominium Insurance
Certificate of Insurance Requests
- Susan Niwinski @ 13:22 EST
As of March 5, 2009 we are still using Wells Fargo Insurance and also Statewide Condominium Insurance for Flood. You will need to call or fill out the Certificate of Insurance Requests forms on the website for the two different companies.
Wells Fargo Insurance
1-888-746-7673-ask for Sandra Sierra
1-800-260-5252, press (1) and stay on the line to leave the information.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009 Rudy Besler - President Vote on rollover of excess Association funds, if any, to next year's budget. PASSED Vote on Compiled Financial Statements for fiscal 2009 & 2010. PASSED
Results of the Annual Meeting-February 26, 2009
- Susan Niwinski @ 08:25 EST
William McGreevy and Lee Pepper won the election.
Bob Brockmann - Vice-President/Treasurer
Fran Winslow - Secretary/Asst. Treasurer
Rene Basile - Director
Rich Kaplan - Director
William McGreevy - Director
Lee Pepper - Director
Wednesday, November 26, 2008 Happy Thanksgiving The Staff
Tradewinds
- Susan Niwinski @ 16:10 EST
The office will be closed Thursday and Friday.
City Council Update-November 24, 2008
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:52 EST Tuesday, November 18, 2008 http://www.marconews.com/news/2008/nov/18/managers-report-citys-finances-change-economy/ The City has addressed two separate major financial issues over the past few weeks, and the two highlight some of the complex changes underway in Marco Island and the country. These issues specifically involve the issuance of debt to support the continuing Septic Tank Replacement Program (STRP), and the changes in the bond market that have resulted in the city’s loss of bond insurance. The issues are largely unrelated, but show the difficulties of financing large projects in a changing economic environment. Why issue bonds now to pay for construction? The city continues the construction of the STRP and in November, the City Council approved an interim $11 million short-term bond to pay for construction. Clearly one question of importance to all of us is whether the city should continue to issue debt and continue with this major project in today’s environment. City Council made a commitment to move forward with the STRP three years ago, and construction on this multi-year project is both underway and timed with bond issues or debt to pay for this construction. The construction is taking place in advance of the bond issue, with the debt timed to keep the city’s expenses and costs to each taxpayer as low as possible. This new interim debt is to cover the cost of construction already obligated and to some extent complete. The $11 million bond is a short-term loan to bridge today’s volatile bond market until the city is able to secure a $35 to $40 million water/sewer revenue bond issue as the market stabilizes within the next few years. This larger bond issue will replace the interim $11 million financing with Fifth Third Bank, and will provide financing for the major capital construction currently underway on the utility system upgrades. This larger bond issue will also be the permanent funding source for the $24 million in construction commitments that are currently underway. How do the current credit problems of the nation affect past bond issues? In 2004, the city purchased the water system from Florida Water Services, Inc. With this system the city did not have the utility operating experience that would allow the bond rating agencies (Moody’s, S&P, Fitch) to assign a good rating to the utility system. Instead of paying the higher rates of interest with a lower rating, Marco Island did as most cities and counties do in this instance — bought bond insurance through MBIA to achieve the AAA rating — generally the only reason to buy bond insurance. If the city’s natural rating had been high enough to result in an A or AA rating, the insurance would have been an unnecessary expense. The bond commitments required the city to either maintain bond insurance to merit the AAA rating or to set aside adequate reserves to protect investors. With the collapse of many of the bond insurance companies over the past few weeks, cities, counties, and utility districts are scrambling to find replacement insurance or build reserves. This issue is the utility system debt, which is treated as a business operation. Unlike general obligation debt, this revenue debt does not pledge the full faith and credit of the city, but instead pledges the utility system’s revenues as the source of funding. The bond agencies recognize this difference with slightly higher interest rates. The city’s financial advisors believe that we can establish and fund an increase in the system’s reserves with little or no impact to our rates through a series of investment alternatives, but clearly everyone is trying to work through this rapidly-changing issue. Thank you for living in and supporting Marco Island. The city is always working with residents and customers on a variety of issues, including utility and other services, and the city’s Web site, cityofmarcoisland.com, provides a wealth of information and listing of contacts and offices. In addition, I am always available to meet personally or by e-mail at sthompson@cityofmarcoisland.com or by telephone at (239) 389-5001. © Marco News
MARCOITES: AS MANY OF YOU KNOW, I TRY TO STAY CLOSE TO THE WORKINGS OF OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND I BELIEVE " MARCO IS IN A SERIOUS FINANCIAL CRISIS!!"
I URGE EVERYONE to read the information I have provided below and go to www.eyeonmarco.com and express your concerns to the Marco City Council! (Click on Send E-mail to City Council)
As you read this e-mail, please keep in mind that the Finance Director resigned within days of the Council authorizing an Audit of Collier Blvd expenditures!! (City Manager Thompson approved a $25,000 severance package for him (3 months pay) even though he cleaned his office out immediately!)
1. On November 3,2008 the City Manager requested the City Council approve an URGENT $11 Million dollar, short term (9 month) loan with a 90 day call (pay back) after six months from the City's bank, Fifth Third Bank. The Agenda item actually asked for approval of an $11 Million Dollar Bond issue--however, the City could not find anyone to take our bonds. During the discussion it was determined that the City had already spent $7 Million of the $11 Million and the (bills) were sitting in City Hall to be paid. Sounds fiscally irresponsible to me. (see Agenda Item 7 F Utility Revenue Bonds at http://www.cityofmarcoisland.com/Public_Documents/MarcoIslandFL_CouncilAgenda/Nov3/index?textPage=1 )
Not one Council member asked: 1.) Why this was brought to the Council's attention at the 11th hour? (City Manager and staff knew about this for months) and 2.) How could the City spend $7 Million dollars without the funding being in place?
2. Taken from the City Manager's Report of Oct 13,2008. FINANCE DEPARTMENT: Bond Insurance Downgrade. When we sold the $101 million bond issue in late 2003 to finance the acquisition of the water and sewer system from Florida Water, we purchased bond insurance from MBIA to give our new and unrated utility system a triple-A rating, the rating of the insurer. Earlier this year, MBIA was downgraded to A from AAA. That action required that the City take steps to put in place a Debt Service Reserve (DSR) for the 2003 bonds in the amount of $6.5 million, the amount of the maximum annual debt service on the bonds. We made the first deposit of approximately $650,000 this past summer, and unless the rating for MBIA improves we are required to make nine more deposits, one every six months over a five-year period, to create the DSR. This week, MBIA was further downgraded to BAA1 from A. That action requires that the entire $6.5 million be deposited into the DSR over the next twelve months, rather than five years. (Click here for full Report: http://www.cityofmarcoisland.com/public_documents/MarcoIslandFL_PIO/Weekly%20Update-081113.pdf )
Now, the City is trying to finance another $6 Million dollars from the same bank to meet the reserve on our bonds and the City Manager stated in the same report "We will also be looking to add the needed $6 million to the permanent funding Water and Sewer Revenue Bond issue we will be preparing for market early next year fund the Water Utility Expansion!" (Wonder how much of that $6 Million Dollars has been spent already?)
I have not missed many Council Meetings the last several years and my recollection is that everytime a bond issue came before Council for approval, the Finance Director\staff indicated that "the excellent financial condition of the City allowed us to have a AAA Bond rating. Now we find out the City's Financial condition had nothing to do with issuance of the Bonds that we paid for insurance that is now "NOT INSURANCE". The Bonds were recently downgraded again from A to BAA1 (almost junk bonds) and the City has to come up with $6 Million dollars to put in reserve.
Not one Council Member asked: 1.) Why weren't they told about the downgrade from AAA to A (which happened months ago) and now downgraded further from A to BAA1, 2.) Who and what type of due diligence was done to purchase Insurance on the Bonds from a Company that now has no value? This should be investigated!
3. In May of 2008, Interim City Manager Souza in his transition report to City Manager Thompson, stated his concerns that there were "irregularities" in the City's Accounting process. This report was not made available to the Council nor Public until Sept 2008 when Mr Souza resigned his job with the City. Specifically Mr. Souza reported: a.) Management and oversight issues in the Finance Department, b.) Management Apathy, c.) A practice of cleaning up project account overruns vs management project accounts. d.) Unauthorized moving of expenditures from account to account. e.) Misleading City Council when asking for contract approvals. (Gotta love item e, when Council asked Mr Thompson about the report he said everything was just fine! Council did not ask about any specifics!) Click here to view the Transition Report: http://www.eyeonmarco.com/clientuploads/Trans.pdf
4. In May 2008, the Interim Manager's Transistion Report also indicated that staff reported a $850,000 overrun on the Collier Blvd Project. When the Council asked about this in September when they got the report, the City Manager said there was no overrun --that in fact their was $2.5 Million in new found money. He did not explain the discrepancy nor did the Council ask for a reconcliation of this disparity. Staff indicates this is in an "Enterprise Fund" and can't be spent to satisfy other requirements!
5. Note: City Managers Report of November 18,2008 (below), the City Manager states "Clearly one question of importance to all of us is whether the city should continue to issue debt and continue with this major project in today’s environment." At the November 3,2008 Council Meeting, several Councilors spoke of postponing the STRP for one year and look at the Economic situation at that time. The City Manager\staff did NOT support any delay! NOW ,two weeks later the City Manager is putting the idea out in his Weekly Report---seems the City Manager may now think it's worse that previously disclosed!
Also, in this same report he states "This larger bond issue will also be the permanent funding source for the $24 million in construction commitments that are currently underway." Sounds like we are obligating (signing) construction contracts when the FUNDING IS NOT IN PLACE!! How irresponsible is that in this economy!!!
IF THE ABOVE IS NOT A FINANCIAL CRISIS, NOT TO MENTION MISMANAGEMENT OF TAXPAYER DOLLARS, I DON'T KNOW WHAT IS!! There were at least eight (8) Budget hearings and workshops over the summer and the City Manager\staff DID NOT bring these problems to the Council or the Public!
The Federal Government has called this the worse Economic Times since the Great Depression. Marco Island Taxpayers deserve to have the answers to the hard questions and ask that ALL Non-essential expenditures be stopped until the extent of the problem is defined and corrected!!!
PLEASE VISIT: www.eyeonmarco.com AND SEND YOUR E-MAIL TO CITY COUNCIL!!
Please forward this to ALL your friends and neighbors so they can be informed on this Critical Situation--It's OUR Money!!!! Take care. Bill McMullan
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Manager's Report: City’s finances change with the economy
By By Steve Thompson, Marco Island City Manager
Wednesday, October 08, 2008 Originally published 09:15 a.m., October 7, 2008 MARCO ISLAND — At times Monday’s City Council meeting discussions sounded more like election campaigning than a session to wrap up the city’s budget. Some of the most recognizable names in Marco Island’s political process seemed to be dragged through the mud at one point or another in the two-part meeting. A public records request by resident Bill McMullan for e-mails between former city councilor John Arceri and all city officials, which yielded 600 e-mails posted on eyeonmarco.com, snowballed into rebuttals and counter-attacks. At a previous meeting, McMullan said the e-mails raised concerns about “fraud” and a behind-the-scenes puppet master, Arceri, who appeared to tell city staff, including Public Works Director Rony Joel and Public Information Coordinator Lisa Douglass, what to do and how to do it. Arceri and Councilor Jerry Gibson followed up by saying the unfounded allegations were nothing more than personal attacks. Douglass said the communications plan that Arceri commented on in the e-mail used as evidence of his “puppeteering” was a plan written by her in advance of correspondence with Arceri. “What is so hard to accept is that I put in over 100 hours of free consulting time (valued at over almost $50,000 at my present consulting rate) helping my city at their request and get demonized by people as being part of some conspiracy, some part of personal agenda,” Arceri said. Since the release of the e-mails, more officials have switched from playing defense to playing offense. Councilor Chuck Kiester said he was personally offended by a letter from Arceri to City Attorney Alan Gabriel. “Mr. Arceri has now moved on to direct the city attorney to determine as to whether Mr. Arceri has a legal case against me. Who is in charge here? It certainly isn’t City Council,” Kiester said. In a letter to the City Council’s attorney, Arceri accused Kiester of spreading hate and suspicion about his involvement in electric studies and negotiations. He also asked Gabriel for a formal legal opinion of the e-mails. Kiester and McMullan have both subsequently said there appears to be the possibility of Sunshine Law violations in the e-mails, including an e-mail from Arceri to City Council sharing Councilor Frank Recker’s idea to set up a committee to study a city takeover of the electric company, Lee County Electric Cooperative. Gabriel said he has found no violations of law in any of this so far. While Kiester said there may not be enough evidence of Sunshine Law violations to hold up in court, he said he was primarily concerned that no one other than the city manager should be directing staff of how to do their daily jobs. “I think we have a good grasp on that. I can understand the concerns,” City Manager Steve Thompson replied. The special-called meeting in the afternoon was set to cut about $1 million from the budget, including a $50,000 reduction in legal fees. The reduction is planned to come from limiting attorney presence at planning board meetings. There seemed to be few winners in the meeting which closed with scarcely one political name left unscathed. Jose Granda, Chairman of the Code Enforcement Board accused Marco Island Taxpayer Association President Fay Biles of bigotry for alleging that his letter about putting electric lines underground was written by Arceri, adding that just because he “speaks with a funny accent” doesn’t mean he is not capable of authoring a well-written letter. Biles said she felt personally attacked by Granda, who she said falsely accused MITA of contributing to election campaigns, which is contrary to MITA’s bylaws. MITA member Linda McCune also said she “felt harassed” by name calling such as “malcontents and CAVE dwellers, citizens against virtually everything.” All involved demanded apologies, but the only one who came close was Arceri. Chairman Bill Trotter said he regretted not addressing McMullan’s “false” allegations head on at the last meeting. Council was able to continue with business and, if there was a turning point in the mood of the meeting, it likely occurred as Recker recommended the city find a way to continue funding youth, teen and family events needed to foster community spirit in a down economy. Council unanimously approved funding for all city-sponsored parks and recreation events and full funding of YMCA swimming lessons. They approved limited cuts for community sponsored events and a new process by which organizations can apply for grants. In order to fund an additional $50,000 for community events while compensating for the reduction in the millage rate, among other things, council decided to trim bridge repairs by $228,400. Joel said the cuts would likely allow the Kendall Drive bridges to be repaired and may minimize or delay repairs to the Caxambas Bridge and the bridge on Hernando Drive. Remaining in this year’s budget is $2.25 million for bridge repairs and $500,000, which will be set aside for the future replacement of the two Smokehouse Bay bridges. Other reductions from the initial $14.5 million general fund budget included a reduction in staff raises from 4 percent to 3 percent. In June, City Council approved a 4 percent raise and an additional 1 percent raise to be given at Thompson’s discretion for any city staff who implemented cost saving measures. This 1 percent cost savings incentive is no longer addressed in the budget. The change from 4 percent to 3 percent represents a $75,000 cut in the budget. City Finance Director Bill Harrison said a process will be created to give staff who implement cost saving measures raises. Also instead of hiring five new employees, three positions will be added to the fire department in January, saving $75,000 in over time and therefore contributing $75,000 to the 2009 budget. Fire Chief Mike Murphy said the ongoing cost of the three firemen will be about $200,000 annually after 2009. While much was accomplished despite multiple allegations and name-calling, issues left unresolved included Kiester’s question of how $25,000 for an electric municipalization consultant is now budgeted at $75,000. Joel said “it was never $25,000” and until the scope of the consultant’s work is determined it is unknown what the actual cost will be. He said the consultant recommended by blind votes from the municipalization committee will be announced in a matter of days, with City Council making the final decision at a November meeting. Council voted 5-2 to lower the electric franchise fee on electric bills from 5 percent to 3.6 percent beginning January 2009. The fees will generate more than $1.5 million with $1 million to pay for debt for putting Collier Boulevard electric lines underground and an additional $500,000 not yet allocated, but possibly going toward putting lines underground in the future — as the fee was initially set to be used for in the 2005 ordinance. Councilors Forcht, Kiester and Recker have questioned the timing, given the national economic crisis, but council has yet to formally take another vote on the issue. In other matters council voted to: – Approve Marco Island Historical Society’s request for city-owned dirt from the Marco Shore’s facility to be used for construction of the Marco Island Historical Museum under the condition MIHS pays for testing the dirt fill for quality. (7-0) – Approve on second reading an ordinance to establish grease damage prevention regulations for restaurants to protect the waste water utility from backing up. (7-0) – Approve on first reading an ordinance to amend the beach management and vessel control ordinance with the condition that the 14-year-old age limit for motorized water vessel operation be reviewed before second reading. (7-0) – Approve a 10-year water supply facilities work plan as required by the state to be worked into the city’s comprehensive plan. (7-0) – Appoint Larry Magel of Hideaway Beach to the nine-member Coastal Advisory Committee created in 2001 to share recommendations with the Board of Collier County Commissioners and Tourist Development Council on areas affected by coastal erosion. (7-0) – Maintain a $56,000 lien accrued from code enforcement fines and a sewer assessment against 625 Dorando Court, foreclosed by Countrywide Home Loans. (7-0) – Approve assessment resolutions for Gulfport, East Winterberry and Southeast Winterberry sewer assessment areas. (5-2) – Approve a resolution to reimburse up to $65 million of capital improvements, including expansion of the wastewater treatment plant to five million gallons per day, construction of the deep injection well and sewer construction projects, with proceeds of future bond issued financing. (5-2) © Marco News ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
City Council Update-October 7, 2008
- Susan Niwinski @ 14:12 EST
MARCOITES: YOUR CITY COUNCIL AT WORK! Two Clay Courts for $80,000 at Racketball Center (200 members), additional Shuffleboard Courts, Landscaping of Cul-de-sacs and THREE (3) NEW EMPLOYEES!!!
"TRUMPS THE ECONOMIC CRISIS IN OUR COUNTRY AND CITY!!!!!"
Please keep these expenditures --of the 15% increase in your City tax dollars in mind, when the ELECTED OFFICIALS talk about ESSENTIAL SERVICES FOR IT'S RESIDENTS------POLITICAL BULLCRAP--101!!!!!
IT IS TRUE --that ex-councilor, Arceri was the defacto Campaign Manager (last election) for the three City Council members that criticized the right of Citizens to bring "concerns" to them or disagree with them---(Trotter, Gibson, Waldack), PARTICULARLY as it pertained to Ex-council member Arceri! I'm sure it was just a coincidence---politics at it's best--at the Public's expense! Bill McMullan
PS Editorial correction in the story below, Bill McMullan DID NOT post 600 e-mails on www.eyeonmarco.com , I believe they ARE located at MarcoIsland Blog at http://209.15.40.246/miblog/emails.html along with several thousand e-mails regarding City Issues with State and Federal Officials at http://marcoislandblog.blogspot.com/ . Also, I never used the phrase "behind-the-scenes puppet master", I have no-idea where that came from---perhaps reporters license!
PSS MY REAL SENTIMENTS OF THE BUDGET PROCESS ARE REFLECTED IN THE PHOTO AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS E-MAIL---ENJOY!!!!
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Politics get personal at Marco City Council meeting
Bridge repairs delayed for parks and recreation events in budget trimming session
By KELLY FARRELL http://www.marconews.com/news/2008/oct/07/politics-get-personal-city-council-meeting/
Updated 05:17 p.m., October 7, 2008
PS I accept donations to offset web, copying, printing and Public Records Request expenses. If you can help, please send to Bill McMullan\EOM, PO Box 159, Marco Island, Fl 34146. Thank you in advance.