Springfield Lake Shore Improvement Association
Quarterly Board Meeting -- FOP Lodge 55

NOVEMBER 1, 2006

Attendance: Garrett Deakin, Melinda O’Connor, Jim Scheider, Kim Curry, John Aiello, Jack Madura, Rich Berning, Sid Marder, Jill Leka, David Hofferkamp, Riley Lane, Carol Schempp, Pam Tisckos, Sam Xanders, Tim Kearney, Larry Michaud, Rob Flesher, Catherine Shiner

Absent: Greg Pinto, Linda Anderson, Nancy Bartolomucci, Tom Hiler, Rich King, Vicki McGuar, Letitia Dewith-Anderson, Tom Cullen

Guests at Meeting: Loretta Michaud and Lew Bird

Meeting was called to order approximately at 7 p.m. by President Garrett Deakin.

A presentation was made by Red Cross officials Matt Brown and Chelsie Miner on disaster preparedness. A disaster such as an earthquake could cause large amounts of damage to our area and therefore they offered many outstanding suggestions on how to prepare. 1) Get a Kit (food, shelter, Water, Money, Masks, Duct Tape, Battery Weather Radio, ect.) 2) Make a Plan (Where to meet loved ones, evacuation routes, communication abilities) 3) Be Informed (before, during and after). RC also teaches CPR courses and offers volunteer opportunities such as the Community Citizen Response Team of which our own Garrett Deakin is heavily involved in. Garrett spent time in Florida after the recent hurricanes and learned first hand what the Red Cross is all about and the great work they do. To contact the RC to get involved, call 787-7602 ext 235.

The next presentation was by Springfield Police LT K. Winslow and Officer Mike Vogel. A discussion ensued talking about a letter sent by President Deakin to the Springfield Police Chief expressing concerns about the drawdown in police presence on Lake Springfield. SPD had refocused Officer Vogel’s time to other areas in Beat 500 due to an increase in violent crimes in those areas. LT Winslow confirmed this reassignment and the fact that there was no presence other than lake security on the lake during the weekend and cutbacks in presence during the weekend. He stated, “we don’t know yet how next year’s schedule will go”. He’d like to be able to say that it will go back to the level it had been in the past but that is yet to be determined. There is also the confusion from roadside that some homes are in the county and some are in the city. Winslow said, “the lake is difficult”. It was determined that the county and the city do not compare statistics on calls to the lake. Funding for the SPD lake officer comes from two sources, the city and CWLP. There was a recent murder at 20 Hazel Dell. The county sheriff’s office is working that. We talked about our association reaching out to CWLP and our local Alderman about getting the patrolling stepped up to at least its past levels. Garrett suggested we have a county liaison since two thirds of the homes on Lake Springfield currently reside in the county.

A rather lengthy discussion occurred next regarding the proposed Pilot Truck Stop for Toronto Road and Canadian Cross. Garrett said that although he is personally opposed to the idea of this project for this area, he polled the Executive Committee and apparently not everyone agreed that our association should be involved due to it not being directly on the lake. There is a November 6th meeting at the Crowne Plaza being conducted by developer Doug Kent to provide his hired experts to present how they are taking precautions to stem the concerns that many have expressed. Mike Monseur (lives on the lake on Fairview Lane) and James St. John (lives near the proposed development) provided the board with a presentation from the opposition group named T.R.U.C.K. (Together Residents Unite for Community & Kids). James’ presentation focused on the fact that the large truck stop development is only a half of a mile from Lake Springfield, our drinking water source. Mike’s presentation focused on the fact that the has many concerns such as crime, traffic safety, noise, light, air and water pollution and the fact that this project doesn’t mix with the neighborhood. He told us that they encourage development of the property, just not this type of development. He mentioned that a more suitable buyer (Huck’s) was taken to the developer, but Huck’s was refused as the project has grown from 4-6 acres to a larger one. The board discussed the fact that we cannot get involved in every issue that arises that is possibly near the lake. The opposition group is looking for SLSIA to take a position and asked the board to consider doing so. Jill Leka suggested that we all attend Doug’s meeting and then possible have an emergency meeting to come to a decision. Mike Monseur invited all the participate and go to the following meetings to express concerns and seek information: November 15, Springfield Planning and Zoning 6 p.m. in City Council Chambers, November 29, Capitol Area Career Center, 6:30 p.m. – information presentation by T.R.U.C.K., December 19th, City Council 6 p.m., decision to allow or not allow the development. T.R.U.C.K. also handed out information on a writing campaign to the decision makers.

Next, Garrett thanked Melinda O’Connor and Crew for the outstanding efforts to bring the wonderful Lobster Boil event to the lake again. A rousing round of applause was heard. Melinda has agreed “to do it again”. Everyone was grateful.

August 2nd meeting were approved with a motion from John A. and second by Kim. Motion carried.

Jim-Treasurers Report was given. 384 paid dues this year. Last year was 385. Rob F made a motion to approve report and Riley second. Motion carried.

A discussion and handouts were provided regarding the excellent market study report that Pam and Scott Tisckos with Garrett have put together. This report has proven advantageous in helping those that are going before the property tax bodies for a lower amount due to the wide range and hodge podge assessments at the lake. Thanks to Pam, Scott and Garrett for this important information.

Larry M. gave a report about lake leases. Garrett and Larry met with Jim Donlan regarding this issue. It remains on hold with leases frozen. Garrett suggested a meeting with Todd Renfrow at this time.

Garrett reported that his efforts have paid off in writing a letter regarding the Flood Plain area and the inaccuracy of the current map. This causes a great deal of concern for lake residence and their insurance rates. Sam Flood, Director of DNR (really-that’s his name) responded favorable to Garrett’s letter stating that they would take a closer look. (Note: Garrett has since reported that this was done and the mapping is now much more accurate and should be quite helpful to us all). Thanks to Garrett for his efforts and to residence that wrote letters requesting a reevaluation.

A discussion occurred about the placement of the new guard rails at Vachel Lindsey Bridge that obstruct pedestrian traffic and cause a danger in the area. Rich King was absent but may have additional information on this. Many have expressed their concerns.

New Business: Events Planning Committee met to discuss the 2007 calendar. It was agreed to continue the following events: Dues $20, Web site www.lakespringfield.org, Wine Tasting Party - last Saturday in February - 5 to 7 PM Motor Boat Club, Print Lake Springfield Schedule of Events, Clean Up Day - 1st Saturday in May, Golf Outing - Friday before memorial Day, Sherel Nutt memorial Scholarships - 2 @ $500 each – May, Monthly E-mail newsletter, Membership Directory - August/September Suggestion: move to earlier in year, Lobster Boil - 3rd Saturday in September, Donations: $250 each to Lincoln Memorial Garden, Henson Robinson Zoo & SUSART.

New proposal, Lake Springfield Garage Sale Day - SLSIA pays to advertise the lake event. Date NOT set. Perhaps first weekend in June. Decided to call for discussion at the January annual meeting to see how the membership wants to proceed.

There was a discussion about the annual membership directory and when it should be distributed. Perhaps move its distribution up earlier in the year in order to coincide with membership drive and fiscal calendar year. John A suggested that the directory only be printed every other year. Kim made a motion to approve and John second. Motion carried.

Larry M. presented the Calendar of Events for review by the board. He is working with lease holders (clubs) to gather information for the printing of the annual calendar and its distribution. Garrett mentioned that Larry puts forth a great deal of effort every year on the calendar. Thanks Larry.

Garrett stated that a lake homeowner asked him to advertise their home for sale by owner within the monthly e-mail newsletter. Garrett was not sure which way to answer and therefore polled the Executive Board. They approved this but the homeowner then decided not to proceed.

January 20th is the fun event called the Frozen Open. Begins at 9:30 or so and includes, putt putt, beverages bus rides and lots of fun. Anyone can sign up at any of the participating clubs which are most of them. All but Elks Lodge, Island Bay, SMBC and Jesters.

A nominating committee was named by Garrett to include Pam T, Nancy B, and Larry M. Members serve a three year minimum term and at this time there is one opening.

The annual meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 17th. Working on a location at this time and hopefully it will be the Firefighter’s Lodge. The meeting’s attendance has grown and therefore, we need a large facility.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:20 PM.

Respectfully Submitted by
Kim Curry, Secretary SLSIA

Springfield Lake Shore Improvement Association Board Meeting
August 2, 2006 TRN Club

AUGUST 2, 2006

Present: Garrett Deakin, Melinda O’Connor, Jim Scheider, Jim Curry, Rich Berning, Sid Marder, Jill Leka, Linda Anderson, Nancy artolomucci, Tom Hiler, David Hofferkamp, Rich King, Riley Lane, Vicki McGuar, Pam Tiskos, Letitia Dewith-Anderson, Larry Michaud, Rob Flesher

Absent: Jack Madura, Greg Pinto, Carol Schempp, Sam Xanders, Tom Cullen, Tim Kearney, Catherine Walters Shiner

Representatives of CWLP were absent from our meeting. Concern was expressed that there are many issues impacting us homeowners and having a CWLP representative to hear the current topics of discussion on the lake plus be able to explain their position on an issue would be beneficial. We would appreciate their representation at our 4 meetings a year.

Called to order by President Garrett Deakin at 7:05

Roll Call & Motion to Approve Minutes by Vicki and 2nd by Rich was approved.

Garrett thanked the TRN Club for their hospitality.

Jim S, Treasurer, stated we have $21,352.96 in our checking and savings account. The 1st annual golf outing was a success by all accounts. There was a loss of only $150 which all thought was great for the first year. To date, 348 members have paid membership dues but Jim is expecting a surge after the directories are sent out in September as was the case last year. Motion to approve Treasurer’s report by Sid, 2nd by Riley was approved.

Guests Springfield Fire Chief Bob Bartnick and Deputy Kulick began by thanking the board for the invitation to speak to our group. Both provided information on the coverage provided by SFD to the July 3rd fire on Fairview Lane that experienced a delayed response time due to several “glitches” that occurred. A review of circumstances focused upon both equipment and human failure in the county’s 911 system. Both are being corrected.

Chief Bartnick stated that there is a mutual aid agreement between Springfield and Chatham’s Fire Departments for coverage of Lake Springfield homes on lanes west of I 55. For those City of Springfield homeowners, annexed & living on the lake, you get a full compliment of service with back up from Chatham. A full compliment from Springfield includes 4 engines, 2 trucks and a battalion chief.
If you are a Lake Springfield home owner & not annexed to the city and live west of I 55, Chatham is the primary responder with back up from Springfield FD. Chatham will send 2 engines, 1 truck and a battalion chief. In either case, both Chatham and Springfield will respond to the fire.

The County’s 911 system directs the calls to the fire departments.

If you live east of I 55, your home is either in the City of Springfield Lake Fire Protection District or the City of Springfield and get Springfield Fire Department coverage with no mutual aid from Chatham. Lake homeowners not annexed to the city pay about 3% of their tax bill to the City of Springfield Lake Fire Protection District for service. That is one benefit one gets for annexing to the city, a 3% less property tax bill for fire protection.

The chief also said that a review of all hydrants is planned with a marking system for those located within common areas or personal property that may be hidden due to landscape.

Sid asked if we could possibly expect additional 911 alarm failures. Chief Bartnick said that equipment failures do occur from time to time but the 911 Center will have new equipment installed soon (approximately December or a bit later). The new software will offer more up to date and automated systems.

Jill asked how to make sure this doesn’t happen again. Deputy Kulcik said that they cannot guarantee that it won’t happen again but that a backup system is in place to assist in these circumstances.

Rich asked the chief to explain the backup system. Chief said that there is a system in place to follow up and make sure that the station has responded. It had problems with the Fairview Fire.

Tisha asked if we can call the station directly. Chief Yes and provided the number for both the Toronto Rd station 788-8441 and the Stevenson Dr station 788-8432.

Riley asked if medical aid or a fire take precedence over one or the other. Basic explanation is that it is based on case by case. For example, if an ambulance is already on site and taking care of the medical, the fire department would then go to fire.

Garrett thanked both firefighters for taking the time to speak with our group.

Garrett stated that he, Kim Curry, Frank Edwards and several city representatives met last week to discuss better signage for many of the lake roads. For example, there is much confusion with the Fairview, West Fairview and Hoechester Road area. Tim Sheeham, City Engineer has come up with new signage for this area that will be placed at decision points along the roads to assist guidance in proper direction. This will assist first responders greatly. We asked for an entire review of lake roads by lake services to be completed and provide better and safer signage for the entire lake area.

Guest Kirk Barton of Rochester, IL talked about the potential of bringing a paddle boat to Lake Springfield. He and a friend would like to know if our group would have opposition to such an endeavor. The boat would operate on the North side of the lake due to its size. The boat is 70 feet long, 14 feet wide and holds approximately 110 people at a time. It has a 2 draft with a flat bottom and is 18 feet tall. The boat would accommodate both private and public tours of the lake. Private parties could include weddings, birthdays and corporate or convention outings. The boat should be able to go under Lindsey Bridge. They are still looking at loading, docking, fuel requirements, parking of guest vehicles and other issues. The question was asked about city permitting and so forth. Many inspections would be in the works such as public health and so forth. No food preparations will occur on the boat but catering services are planned with a buffet type service. Kirk’s number is 502-0559 and he is interested in receiving input on this project.

Mike Vogel our designated Lake Springfield Police Officer could not attend this meeting but a discussion was held on concerns about the recent downgrade in on the lake service time. Mike now lives at the Ski & Boat Club and the boat is housed there. He is now assigned to additional areas of the city and therefore is only present on the lake for 8 hours on Sat and 8 hours on Sun. There is no city police coverage on the lake during the week days. Lake Security is on patrol during those hours of operation. There have been several burglaries on the lake in recent times which gives us cause for concern. Garrett will draft a letter based on this concern and send it to both the Mayor and the Chief of Police asking for additional coverage. Kim made a motion for the letter to move forward and Rob 2nd, approved.

Old Business - Sid & Larry talked about lake leases as they are now frozen at the current amounts for those that come up for renew. There has been no movement from CWLP to come up with an agreement for a new formula. An observation was made that they have been quite busy with the new power plant issues.

Melinda, Chairperson for the annual Escape to the Lake/Lobster Boil reported that the event is planned for Saturday, September 16th. Volunteer help is needed for both setup and cleanup days. Setup begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday and work includes placement of large picnic tables and chairs outdoors. Volunteers at the meeting were: Garrett, John, Tom H., Rich K, Riley and David H. The band for the evening will be Strange Brew. A discussion of having Melinda seek a variance permit to allow the band to play till 11 should occur. She will do so. Invitations will go out to all Lake Springfield lease holders around Aug 20 with a Sept 9 deadline for return of reservations. Many phone Melinda at the last minute to make additions. This does cause problems as the exact amount of live lobsters must be ordered by a specific date. Please make your plans accordingly. The cost of this event has remained at the very reasonable rate of $25 per person for many years. Melinda will be checking on costs for the lobsters to see if it is cost effective to keep the cost of $25.

President’s Report: Garrett asked for volunteers for the Events Committee. This committee meets once a year to discuss the upcoming year’s planned events hosted by the association. They then report back to the full membership for a vote in November. The committee will include the following members: Garrett, Kim, Rich, Melinda, Jill, Pam & Kent McFarland, Paula Mataya, Linda A, and Alice Beck.

Garrett emails our monthly newsletter to over 300+ homes. There are 35 people that do not have email and therefore, Garrett has been hand delivering these each month. There are a few of the homes that are tough to get to for him. Kim suggested that he mail them but several members offered to hand deliver those in their areas. Garrett said the E. Hazel Dell area is the biggest issue for him. He may mail or he may seek assistance from nearby residence.

Garrett, Pam and Scott Tiskos have spent hours compiling data to assist residence with their tax assessment issues. An on going issue is that many assessments come in at very high numbers compared to their neighbors. In the 90’s, the association paid $2,000 for a study to occur. Garrett, Pam and Scott have completed basically the same report for a cost of $17.50 and many hours of time.

Garrett passed out the market based report of homes selling on Lake Springfield in 2004 and 2005. A chart listing 17 columns of detailed information is provided for each of the 61 sales made in 2004 and 2005. It is intended to help lake homeowners identify trends or values of homes actually sold on the lake. In 2004 for example, 22 homes were sold with prices ranging from $163,000 to $900,000. In 2005, 39 homes were sold with prices ranging from $92,500 to $1,200,000. Of the 61 home sales, 30 of the homes were over assessed. From 1991 to 1997, only 6 of 93 sales were over assessed.

When considering a challenge to a reassessment, it is important to compare houses of like style (brick or frame), location (cove or main body), number of stories and acreage. We have attempted to provide this information and have it all on computer so that comparisons can be made. For example if your home is made of brick you need to compare your reassessment to brick homes that sold not frame homes that sold. In 2005, the price per square feet of homes built of brick and sold were $162.51 per square foot as compared to frame constructed homes which sold for $126.35 per square foot.

We still want to fine too our report as there are a couple of interesting sales which tend to skew our numbers. We hope to have this done in the next few weeks and make our report available to all Association members for free.

Riley asked how we intend to distribute this information and let folks know it is available. He suggested that only dues paying members have access to this report as it is sensitive information and should not be posted on the internet. A final motion was agreed to that states all dues paying members will receive the report upon request form Garrett. If a non dues paying member would like the report, they may pay their $20 membership fee to obtain it. Garrett reported that he will note the availability of this report within the letter that will go out in September within the Membership Directory.

New Business-Rich King expressed concerns about the new guard rail that has been installed on the west side of Lindsey Bridge. Rich phoned the city and expressed concerns of the railing being placed so close to the road that it prohibits pedestrians from walking safely in this area. Nor can bikers bike safely. The CWLP representative suggested that this area isn’t used frequently and therefore is not concerned and that it must be placed in this position due to fiber cables being underground. He suggested they walk on the inside but Rich indicated it could be full of poison ivy and other undesirable things. Rich Berning brought along a procedure booklet for such structures and suggested that this could be a violation of construction codes. Rich B. and Jill will draft a letter for Garrett’s review and signature to send to the city with our concerns for a potential accident such as a pedestrian being struck by a car.
Riley talked about a situation in his neighborhood whereby a tree fell in the recent storm. The tree grew in the common grounds but fell on his neighbor’s property. The city told this person that she would now be responsible for the tree’s removal. This would be a good question for CWLP but they were not present at this meeting.

Linda Anderson stated that her neighbor installed a seawall within the past 8 years but it has now blown out. Concerns were raised over the issue of several seawalls failing in recent years. There is now only one contractor operating on the lake and he is not guaranteeing his work past a certain period. There is very little that our Association can do. Possibly the city should be contacted and have them look into this matter. Or, possibly the homeowners affected by this problem could ban together in discussion with the city and the contractor.

The Aqua Club is now serving Friday night dinners from 5 – 7 p.m. Cost is around $5 or $6 and the menu varies weekly.

At 8:30 p.m., Nancy motioned to adjourn the meeting with a 2nd by Linda A. Approved.

50/50 amount of around $42.50 was won by Nancy B.

Respectfully Submitted by Kim Curry, Secretary

Springfield Lake Shore Improvement Association Quarterly Meeting
May 3rd, 2006 at the TRN Club

MAY 3, 2006

Springfield Lake Shore Improvement Association Board Minutes

Present: Garrett Deakin, Melinda O’Connor, Jim Scheider, Kim Curry, John Aiello, Jill Leka, Nancy Bartolomucci, Tom Hiler, Carol Schempp, Larry Michaud, Rob Flesher, Riley Lane, Sid Marder, Vicki McGuar, Catherine Walters Shiner, and Pam Tiskos.

Absent: Linda Anderson, Rich Berning, Litita Dewith-Anderson, David Hofferkamp, Tim Kearney, Rich King, Jack Madura, Greg Pinto and Sam Xanders.

Called to order by President Deakin approximately 7:05 p.m.

Motion to accept the February Quarterly board minutes by John A., 2nd by Larry M.

Introduction of new board members.

Jim S. gave a treasurers report on finances. Also, there have been several new address signs sold and we should be up to a total of around 200 on the lake. This is good news as the lake police and fire department will benefit from the signage in locating emergencies from the lake side.

Jim reported that we have a checking account balance of $2,821.14 and a savings account balance of $14,273.31 for an overall total of $17,094.45. In looking over the membership applications, over 90% are very interested in receiving our monthly newsletter via email or hand delivered. This is a great way to stay informed of lake issues.

Larry M. reported on the annual Clean up Day at the Lake to be held on May 6. Meet at the SMBC at 9:30 for assignments and all will be completed by noon.

Tom H. reported on the Friday, May 26th Golf Outing. There were 26 foursomes signed up at that time. The committee is looking for prizes to giveaway so please contact Lynn Bierma at 415.7431, Tom Hiler at 429-4129 or Ron Tucker at 529-1594 to donate.

Larry M. reported on the Lake Lease issue. The committee is working with CWLP toward simplifying the formula and as well as it being more fair to all. As of this date, no word was received from CWLP. Meanwhile, CWLP has frozen per the City Council vote, all new leases being renewed for now. The board discussed a number of options being presented to the CWLP and concluded with the most appealing to all. There was discussion of comparisons of other lakes in IL and their reasonable charges as compared to Lake Springfield. The committee will share the idea of 1/3 of 1% assessment value and then a 1% increase annually. It is important to remember that all homes upon lease renewal will be automatically annexed in the city in addition to many experiencing a large increase in their lease fee. Currently the city receives approximately $360,000 for leases annually. There are 750 leases total and about 500 are currently not in the city. About 250 are now in the city. 1/3 are coming up for lease renewal in the next few years. Larry, Sid and Garrett will move forward in meeting with CWLP representatives to discuss this issue again and try to move forward with a new agreement and the newly recommended formula. Unanimous vote to be proactive on this issue and come to a resolution since it has been ongoing for many years now.

At this point, we have only heard from home owners that were successful in appealing their new tax assessments. Many homes were recently assessed for much higher tax rates. There is a committee of five members that will continue to work on this issue to assist home owners in fair and reasonable tax assessments at the lake.

Larry M. reported on the Calendar of Events for Lake Springfield. There is one correction of the Press Club’s Summer Fest on July 29th.

New Business
Garrett reported that both the KC and the TRN Club will celebrate their 50th anniversary this year. Rob Flescher, the board representative for the Council of Lake Clubs thanked Larry for his continued assistance in putting the Calendar of Events together each year.

There will be a June 3 & 4 Vessel Safety inspection at Lindsay Bridge (free). There will be 12 to 15 inspectors on hand. The Power Safety Squadron offers classes each year and attendees can garner a 10% discount on your boat insurance for the class.

Kim and Garrett reported that we have a new sponsor for our website. Jim Shea has purchased an ad to appear on the website. There are many questions that we receive through contact from the website about real estate.

Rob F. reported that the Elks Lodge will be hosting a parking lot garage sale. 10 x 10 space is available for June 17th if any homeowner is interested.

Vicki M. reported on the SLSIA potential garage sale. Vicki conducted research on ad costs and potential August dates for a lake home owner’s garage sale tentatively to be held at the Beach House and park area. Discussion occurred and it was decided to watch how the Elks Lodge garage sale goes and then discuss at our annual meeting in January 07. We could add this new event to the association’s calendar.

Garrett reported that SUSART is completely out of money to operate on Lake Springfield. Larry made a motion and Jill L 2nd to donate $100 to be used for gas money to continue their operations. Motion passed.

Tom H. joked that he has a “new towing service” at the lake and told of Garrett dead in the water story. The ending had something to do with the need of a beverage.

The next meeting will be held at the Blue Ridge Club on Wednesday, August 2.

A quick discussion occurred about a new potential marina restaurant, but nothing has solidified yet.

Steve Frank of CWLP reported the he is working with a DNR grant project. It is scheduled to be completed in the next years.

Progress with the condos in Center Park included the fact that the developers have until 8/2/09 to put the harbor in BD2 in boating shape. They will be replanting 100 hardwood trees. Steve said that his office has secured a $170,000 grant for the lake. Part o the money will be used for the sail boat ramp just north of the Beach House. They will resurface the ramp and pour concrete to replace the gravel turnaround. Dollars will be used to build a handicapped accessible boat dock there as well as a sidewalk over to the BD2 site. A fishing pier and handicapped accessible boat dock will be built at the BD2 site with these funds in addition to the developer’s pledge when garnering the property of $135,000 on the sea wall, rip rap and dredging of the BD2 lagoon.

Steve also reported that the old marina still has no activity to report on. They gave up their liquor license and are still interested in converting the property to home sites. Utilities are the main issue for now with that project.

Steve indicated that Lake Springfield now has a Certified Lake Manager on staff. Her name is Michelle Nichols and we are lucky that she has obtained this title. Not many lakes have such an accomplished staff member. Dan Brill is a Certified Septic System Inspector. It is great to have people with these credentials on staff.

Marine Point (Hickory Point) is getting “dressed up” so watch for the clean up that will take place.
50/50 raffle of $28 was won by Riley Lane.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted by:
Kim Curry, Secretary

Springfield Lake Shore Improvement Association Board Meeting
February 8th, 2006 at the Sangamo Surf Club

FEBRUARY 8, 2006

Present: Garrett Deakin, Melinda O’Connor, Jim Scheider, Kim Curry, John Aiello, Nancy Bartolomucci, Rich Berning, Letitia Dewith-Anderson, Tom Hiler, Tim Kearny, Larry Michaud, Carol Schempp, Pam Tisckos.

Absent: Linda Anderson, Tom Cullen, Rob Flesher, David Hofferkamp, Rich King, Riley Lane, Jill Leka, Jack Madura, Sid Marder, Vicki McGuar, Greg Pinto, Catherine Walters Shiner, Sam Xanders.

Meeting called to order by Garrett Deakin at 7:10 p.m.

Introductions included new board member Pam Tisckos.
Secretary’s Report -Tom H. made motion to approve minutes from last meeting, Letitia D-A. 2nd; approved.
Treasurer’s Report - Jim S. reported that there is $3,043.04 in checking and $12,549.84 in savings for a total of $15, 592.88. There are now 385 paid and in good standing members. That is the most anyone can remember in the history of our Association. There was discussion about who is a member of our Association. Sherel Nutt used to say that any leaseholder living on the lake is automatically a member of our Association, but paid members are considered in good standing. We have received requests form non-lease holders to join our Association and to receive the monthly email newsletter. John A. pointed out that our by laws indicated that you must be a lease holder to be a member of this Association. Garrett does not send the monthly newsletter to non members but those same newsletters, as well as board minutes, are posted for public viewing on our website.

Tim K. moved and Larry M. 2nd adoption of the Treasurer’s Report; approved.

Old Business: our Wine Tasting Party will be held on February 25 at the Springfield Motor Boat Club from 5 – 7, $5 per person. The price includes cheese, crackers and hors d’oeuvres.

Larry reported that Clean up Day will be held on May 6 starting at 9:30 a.m. at the Motor Boat Club. It is being chair by Sonny Stone. It will, in general, be a repeat of last year with breakfast items needed to feed crew. They are looking for giveaway items after cleanup. PR will be done to advertise the day and signs (purchased with grant funds last year) will again be posted around the lake.

The Sherel Nutt Memorial Scholarship forms and information has been distributed to schools and current information is on our website, www.lakespringfield.org Garrett, Betsy Aiello, Dr. Delinda Chapman and Dr. Dyanne Ferk will review applications to select the recipients. Recipients will then be invited to the following board meeting for check presentation.

Larry has finalized the Calendar of Events. It is now in the printing process and will be distributed soon.

Lake Leases: nothing new since the Annual Meeting in January.

New Business: John A. brought a handout highlighting the State Tax Code governing lease property owned by a municipality. This information can be found at www.ilga.gov/legislation. Guest, Bill Anderson talked about the Home Rule Authority and if the city can legally annex all lake leaseholders into the city automatically. He will check on this situation further and report back to this body.
Garrett suggested that in our annual meeting, we passed a resolution to establish a Property Tax Committee and this committee will then establish the perimeters to garner a market study regarding the sale of property on Lake Springfield. One objective is for lease holders to use this study as assistance in appealing skyrocketing property tax assessments. Garrett called for volunteers. The committee will consist of Rich Berning, Bill Anderson, Pam Ticskos,John Aiello and chaired by Garrett Deakin. They will determine criteria for the study and check on costs. Tim K. said that Craig Williams of Fairview Lane offered to scan the entire document so that we can put it on our web site. Letitia D-A. has offered to talk with other neighborhood associations, and garner their assistance with their tax issues.

The golf outing is being chaired by Lynn Bierma. Lynn is checking Lincoln Greens and is looking at a Friday afternoon, shot gun start in June. Tom H. and Garrett offered to help Lynn with the golf outing.

Lake Springfield Garage Sale Day has been a popular idea. Vicki McGuar is the event chairperson. She was absent so there was no report. Board members thought a spring event would be best.

Lake leaseholders recently received a survey on Lake Springfield’s water quality from Mandy Roccaforte, a UIS graduate student, through a CWLP mailing. Garrett discussed this survey with the student’s project advisor, Mandy and CWLP. The questions were developed by Mandy and answers will be kept confidential. Many responses have already been received. Mandy plans on making a presentation of the findings to our board once the project is complete!

Trooper’s Lodge at Lake Springfield is now closed and the 2.24 acres of property is listed by Doug Kent at a sale price of $450,000.00. Someone suggested that this would be a nice piece of property to be used by retired state employees.

Garrett reported that we received a very nice thank you letter from Lincoln Memorial Gardens for our Association’s donation to the Gardens.

Election of Officers: Nancy B motioned to keep the same slate of officers currently serving the board. Several 2nd were heard and motion passed. Garrett Deakin, President, Melinda O’Connor, Vice President, Jim Schieder, Treasurer, & Kim Curry, Secretary. Garrett stated that the Executive Committee will consist of these four officers and John Aiello.

Larry & Sonny will now chair Clean up Day.

No comments during Open Floor.

Motion to adjourn by Kim C at 7:58 p.m., Tom H 2nd; motion carried.

50/50 drawing was won by Letitia Anderson in the amount of $24.50.