Blog
Posted on August 31, 2025 2:45 PM by Dan Chester
Happy Labor Day Shady Beachers!
It's been a little while since I've provided an update, but do know the Board has been very active with discussions around how and when we should make our next major improrvements. We are actively saving and building up our Marina Fund so we can replace the seawall 5 to 6 years from now. You may have noticed the seawall is rusting out and has holes now that start near the garage area and extend into the docks. If needed, we are financially in good shape to address just this section sooner.
Beyond the seawall, you may recall we surveyed the members on which projects that impact all members we should prioritize, and since then, we have approximate costs. See below:
- Permanent bathroom(s) for the beach $60,000
- Landscape improvement of the beach's NE corner $25,000
- Landscape improvement of the Marina park $60,000 (cost est. is for Marina parking area only)
While we were initially gung ho on improving the Marina parking section, as this could be immediately enjoyed by all members, there is concern with the upcoming seawall work that much of the marina landscape will be wrecked due to the heavy equipment. Therefore, we should hit the pause button on that project.
Thus we are now focused on the beach and specifically adding a bathroom. With pavilion rentals up on top of events like Music on the Lake, Fireworks and general beach goers, there's a real desire to have a proper bathroom for members and for our guests. I also wish I got a nickel every time we talk about the project as the question comes up: Who will clean them? Answer: We'll use a cleaning service! Members will not be asked to clean them and we can move the monthly cost for having the porta potty to the new cleaning service. The second question is: What about winterization? Answer: Yes, we'll hire someone to winterize just as many of us winterize our sprinkler systems and 2nd homes Up North. We also have security cameras to deter or capture any misuse.
How will we fund? We have approximately 130 members. $60,000/130 = $462 roughly per member. We propose this be added to our Dues next year as a one time cost for all members regardless of membership status. Thus this incremental cost would be due on March 30, 2026.
Please note we will not bring this to a vote until the November General Membership Meeting. We'd love to hear member feedback on this at the next General Membership Meeting on September 9th, 7pm at the beach pavilion.
Dan
*********SAFETY FIRST! As we had a recent car break in, we are reminding all to lock your doors and remove valuables from cars parked outside. It's also wise to keep your garage door closed, unless in use.
