- Annual meeting coming up on 10/26 ay 10:00 AM at the Bridge View Grill Function Room. Election of two Trustee positions to take place. Candidates’ night at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, 10/16.
- The 2024 budget included an 11% increase in operational expenditures and COA fees, due to a 34% increase in the insurance premium, a situation experienced by all condo associations.
- A new reserve study was presented in December of 2023, which noted that only 12% of fully funded reserve is actually funded. A plan has been implemented to strengthen the reserve fund to an appropriate level.
- Laurel Hill roofing was completed in June.
- A supplemental operations assessment averaging $2000 per unit was levied, to pay current operating obligations.
- A new control panel was installed in the Wastewater Treatment Facility, and the ad hoc WWTF committee is overseeing the relicensing process.
- The pool received a new heater, the showers received a new hot water heater, and a dehumidifier was installed.
- Painting continued on schedule, with 31 units completed.
- Funding of the long-term capital plan was the subject of thorough analysis, discussion, and consideration of options for payment. It was decided to increase the 2025 monthly COA reserve contribution from unit owners to an average of $551/mth, starting January 1, 2025. Although this may negatively impact some sales, it should ensure greater stability for the community, and alleviate the need for additional special assessments.
- The Board recognizes and sincerely thanks the hard work of all the committees that make Brookside such a beautiful community!
- Rob Weber is the new on-site assistant maintenance person.
- The Board has adopted new policies for electric vehicle charging and exterior vents for kitchen range hoods.
Upcoming Neighborhood Events
July Brookside Updates
At its meeting on June 20, 2024, the Brookside Board of Trustees voted to increase the 2025 monthly COA Reserve Contribution to an average of $551 per unit per month, in order to fund various capital projects in the near and distant future.
On Saturday, June 22, Brooksiders turned out in force to dedicate the Pool Pavilion to Mike O’Malley, to honor his long and devoted service to the community.
His energy and commitment never wavered, over many years. He was an amazing and valued Brooksider, and it was lovely to see how many appreciated that.
May Brookside Updates
Things have been busy at Brookside through the winter and early spring! One of the most fun and unique was the Arts Stroll on April 26 and 27, when artist Brooksiders opened their homes to show their work to their neighbors. Kudos to Jim Bowen, Susan Bunbury, Caroline and Greg Anderson, Andy Howard, Jeannine Lavoie and Rich Ferreira, and Paul and Mary Ellen Split for their exceptional work (and in the case of Mary Ellen, tasty tea and homemade scones)! And kudos to the 35+ Brooksiders who enjoyed strolling, seeing, kibbitzing, and nibbling!
April Brookside Updates
- Brookside Welcomes Back The Dartmouth Group
Rick Carberry will be the Property Manager and Hoby McNerney will be the new full-time, on-site Facility Manager. TDG is looking for an additional on-site maintenance person as well. There will no longer be an administrative person on site. Residents will now contact TDG offices for administrative or accounting issues.
- Board of Trustees Announces Special Assessment to Meet VBC Operating Cash Needs
At its March 21, 2024, meeting the VBC Board of Trustees voted unanimously to levy a special assessment averaging $2,000 per unit needed (1) to pay current obligations, (2) to avoid future cash flow problems, and (3) to establish a contingency fund to meet future unanticipated expenses. Unit owners will be given the option of paying the full assessed amount up front or in three equal monthly payments in May, June, and July 2024.
- Pool Update
The upgrades to the pool water heating and ventilation systems are ongoing and will be completed prior to the scheduled late May pool opening.
- There was excellent homeowner attendance at the March 23 Reserve Study Presentation.
- New VBC Rules coming regarding the use of Gas Grills to comply with MA Fire Code, Chapter 10.10.6.