Harmony? Hardly
SURFSIDE UNITED Surfside homeowners are a diverse group of folks interested in a myriad of different activities: fishing, gardening, golf, beach combing, and yes even hospitality as we entertain family and grandchildren. For most of us the only reason to leave involves healthcare or unfortunately death. We love our beach life at Surfside. As humans, though we differ in views and opinions. Disagreements occur as we all attempt to live together in a very close proximity.
It is for the love of Surfside and a sincere attempt to achieve harmony that this article is written. Have you heard of Surfside United? Perhaps you have if you received a flyer from them recommending and justifying the reason you should have voted for four candidates. Or you may have seen the advertisement in the July 14th Chinook Observer congratulating those four recommended candidates for being elected to the Surfside Board of Trustees.
But who is Surfside United? In addition, for what does Surfside United stand? There is much speculation. The purpose of addressing these points in the August 6th Weekender is to ask a spokesperson to clarify the Surfside United identification and agenda. With regards to the agenda, virtually every member will be affected by the outcome should it be completed. Certainly, one of the agenda items stated initially by Surfside United is the tree height covenant. The campaign flyer was specific regarding what was called “an unfair requirement of G, H, and I Street members to maintain a specified tree height for the view of J Place residents”. A very hot button item if not a dividing issue. The Surfside blog as well as social media like NextDoor Surfside were used to stir up emotions with anonymous posts, inflammatory remarks, unsubstantiated rumors, or just plain lies. Scare tactics were used such as “kill tree committee” or suggesting sending names/addresses of BOT and Committee Chairman to Antifa Seattle.
It has been suggested that a former Surfside member and Trustee who apparently wishes to destroy the Surfside HOA has actively been involved in this effort. Of course, not all or most of these posts are submitted by Surfside United. However, the inflammatory results are a consequence of these unscrupulous tactics. Realtors have told me the smear tactics have concerned buyers looking to move here. Recently a concerned Surfside member approached the HOA. This anonymous member was privy to information discussed by Surfside United regarding an aggressive takeover of the association.
Allegedly, Surfside United with a potential majority vote intends to remove me as Board President seizing power and then firing the Business Manager, Tracy Lofstrom. In other words, Surfside United, possibly a relatively small number of members is poised to take over the administration of this community.
Is this a concern for the majority of Surfside Members? Think of the possible significance to Surfside Estates. Covenants that may or may not be in place. Property values that may be affected by covenant changes. An organization that uses slur tactics as a strategy. Inexperience guiding such items as drinking water, public safety, and a large budget. All this because of a vindictive former member and some folks experiencing buyer’s remorse for not understanding the responsibility of their purchase.
I am hereby inviting a representative of Surfside United to submit a signed article for next weeks’ Weekender, explaining their vision for our community and for our HOA and factually refuting anything in this article that they believe is inaccurate. We only seek to make Surfside Estates a better place for us to enjoy life.
Ric Minich, President, Surfside HOA
133 comments:
Does anyone want to set up pool on how long this guy lasts? I would say the over under is about 2 weeks.
Flyers recommending candidates---um, that's a campaign not a conspiracy. Those four people winning by vote is democracy, not a hostile take over. "Our" president sounds unstable at best with this rant. It's embarrassing.
I talk with a LOT of people around here every day and this is the biggest scare letter I have ever seen or heard about. SHAME ON YOU RIC! SHAME SHAME SHAME for spreading lies and adding to the dissension. YOU, RIC, ARE A PROBLEM! A HUGE PROBLEM! Real estate has never been so good, homes here are selling like hot cakes, There is NO aggressive person trying to take over anything except your gang of thugs, that's right, YOUR GANG. Now, either get to work on a positive note or get the hell out of that chair, NOW!
I will support a member emergency meeting to remove this traitor!
Sure looks like he's using his position to create problems. Are we going to put up with this? Really, this Ric dude is so far out of touch. You CANNOT use the president position to oppose the will of the people or for special interest. Ric has violated our rules of a BOT by using the very thing he deems NOT reputable (this blog) to try and to BE reputable with his word salad of a declaration paper.
Seriously dude, bye bye. I too request the other BOT members remove this clown from his position and from ANY position, immediately.
I wasn't hostile before, but this letter from a BOT president has now made me hostile!
It's called digging your own grave, shooting yourself in the foot, what a dummy.
Who voted for this guy to be pres? Come on, we can do better than this!
This letter is the epitome of what a sore loser looks like. Too bad you haven't learned this childhood lesson in all your years on this planet. Sad and pitiful. No class, none
What's funny is Ric actually thinks this HOA hostage system is what makes this area great! It's so funny it will have me chuckling all day long.
I almost didn't buy here because of the HOA. Imagine how wonderful and liberating it would feel to just make upgrades and improvements without having to consult some dumb assed HOA. Honestly, Ric, you must really have your head in the sand, literally, or up someone's butt. Not sure which, take your pick.
@2:56 - polarizing comments are what is raising the concern. In my opinion most reasonable people would agree convenants should be periodically reviewed with recommended changes reviewed and approved by a majority of members. Your comment seems to indicate you are in favor of no covenants.
@3:03, Thank you for finding my comment so 'polarizing'. None have ever found me so interesting, I'm honored. I don't come here to have my position questioned by randoms, however, since you ask, I will answer once and once only.
I figured I could work within the limitations I would be bound by with this HOA because I'm young and still have some fight left in me and secondly, this is my first HOA and my last. Like I said, I'm young and have some money, I can help change the restrictions or move. Either way. I'm going to try changing it first.
Hope this satisfies your interest in me!
Memo to Ric - if I understand correctly, you are protesting over a small group of people trying to take over the association.
That's exactly what we've had here since 2010. Apparently the problem is that they are not YOUR people.
156 - once the board is empaneled, they vote among themselves on officers.
Ric said he wasn't going to run for president up to two hours before the election. Maybe he should reconsider his position.
@322 **chuckle**, enjoy your moxie and truth, it really is about options right? When a person feels out of options their brain becomes old and linear. The one thing this past year has taught me, if you don't like something, change it. The options are clear, embrace the change for the good it will be or sell and take the heap of money to a less restrictive area of Washington. Realizing we all have options keeps the mind flexible, the body healthier, and the soul free.
It what universe did this guy think this was appropriate? This is down right scary. Talk about trying to use scare tactics. I implore the other 8 board members to remove him not only from the President role but from the board altogether. Approximately 500 people voted and the majority vote was for change.
The Board President has shown his inability to manage or lead. He should encapsulate his frustrations, do the honorable thing and resign. Please take Olds and his wife with him. To the Board, DO NOT BRING THE NEXT HIGHEST VOTE GETTER N TO THE BOARD. If Olds is smart and leaves as well, that will be a start on paring the Board down to the correct size. You can do that, as they did to Cox, as the only size requirement concerns the MINIMUM number of members. I hope you succeed in taking back the HOA, firing the manager, and compliance employee. Surfside will be a much better place without them. You will have a task in front of you but obviously the members believe you can do it - they elected you in the biggest election I ever noted in 15 years living there. Please note that a member of the “old rulers”, Mr. Clancy, saw this coming and beat feet before he was sued.
Question for the other board members. Did Minich run this by you before it was printed in the Weekender? If he does resign or if you remove him, please leave the seat open. He has only 1 year left on his term. The last thing we need right now is unelected persons being appointed to the board. The members sent a message on July 10th. Please respect that message. Thank you.
This is the ultimate example of a corruption in the board. He is trying to undermine the will of the people.
Get him out, get him out, get him out! How dare he use the weekender in such a manner. This is not informational for all but a weak attempt to subvert our wishes. Very punk, amateur move.
I implore the BOT, remove him and his dirty underhanded ways!
I see none of these comments have addressed the facts that are in his post.
Bottom line, I see he has given you all a chance and venue to state your agenda for ALL of the members of the HOA. How is that bad?
Wow @3:22, don't what made you believe I found you interesting, quite the opposite. I didn't say your comment was polarizing did I. I did state that your comment seemed to indicate you favor no covenants so it is interesting you would move somewhere automatically thinking you could change things to suit your perspective as opposed to just finding that to begin with. I also don't see anyplace where I questioned your position. Since you are just as "random" as I, there is no reason for either of us to continue. Good luck with your moxie and your fight.
Careful @5:18... Let's try to keep logic and facts out of it. You are likely at the wrong place for reasonable discourse.
322 - you simply getting a thinly-veiled version of the "my way or the highway" attitude for that has prevailed here for 10 years with a special interest group in place of a Board. Ignore it.
We welcome your energy and input!
It's so easy to trigger the old regime. Sorry but again, your ideal lifestyle of living under the thumb of a bunch of restrictions is no longer desirable. Just learn to love it as those before had to learn to live under the rule of your tightly bound lifestyle. The future is for the young, the new, your day in the sun is over and you didn't do a very good job. It's time to hand over the reigns, Let someone new try and make it better for the future masses. You can just keep your Ms manners and pearl clutching to yourselves. It means nothing anymore. The world has changed in case you haven't noticed.
@6:47 - I'll agree when I see actual change.
653 - one way or another, you're going to see it on August 21st, or shortly thereafter.
This organization will either come correct, or pay a whole lot of money in litigation.
647, right? If you don't agree with the worn out tired rhetoric, you are deemed illogical and nonfactual.
It doesn't get any more factual than - People were voted out of office
It doesn't get any more logical than - We have seen what you done with the place and we don't like it and aim to change it, for the better.
Yet, they continue with same worn out record, over and over again. It doesn't work anymore, get with the times. Who knows, you might even like it!
I’m starting to think Ric is not altogether upstairs after reading this 🙄
Who is behind Surfside United?
@7:19 from what I understand, Surfside United is us, the people who want change, the people who want to plant a tree in their yard and not be forced to cut it down later, the people who are tired of the old self entitled few. From what I understand it's just a 'term' most likely started by the four new BOT members who have promised to listen to US, the members, who want change and fairness. Nothing diabolical, nothing evil, nothing organized to usurp anything or anyone. Just fairness and equity for E-V-E-R-Y-O-N-E.
That is what I know, maybe other things will surface, but I'm going with what I know because like 7:19 says: I have seen what has been done, and I don't like and will aim to change it, for the better!
I think it's just a grassroots term, the old regime is upset because the change coming is not coming from them, that's all, they are scared. It's going to be alright. Wouldn't you like to plant a nice deciduous tree in your yard? Or a PNW Native tree to support the wildlife? Only a special few, who live higher than sea level are given that privilege. How does someone else having trees make my property value higher? It doesn't, mature landscape is a plus for property values. We are dealing with stingy greed, that's it, plain and simple.
I can tell you who Surfside United is. It is the 324 members who voted for Cori, the 322 members who voted for Larry, the 291 members who voted for John and the 286 members who voted for Ronda. There is no secret agenda or hostile take over. These are members who want a review of the covenants to decide which ones should stay, which ones should go and which ones should be amended. These are members who do not think the covenants have stood the test of time. They are members who want them brought up to date. They are members who for the most part just want to be left alone to enjoy their life at the beach. The fact that some are absolutely freaking out because there may be change afoot is revelatory. See you at the August 21st board meeting.
Ric and his pals are just trying to find out who the people are in Surfside United, so they can retaliate. He is fishing, the fool.
Surfside United sent one mailer, to all households, to inform people they are not alone in this harassment of the HOA. Although the tree cutting issue brought out the masses, did you know the old BOT members and their minions were preparing for this to happen:
1. To write violation letters to everyone who does not have light fixtures to their liking. If they can actually 'see' the light bulb, you must replace the fixture.
2. To impose a 'neat and tidy' policy to the restrictive covenants. This would mean if they don't like that driftwood, buoy, rusty metal art or whatever they see to their dislike, it is a violation.
Now, this is in addition to the tree restriction. One main reason for these random ideas was to justify the unauthorized hiring of the compliance person, whom they hired outside of a vote of the people. Additionally, the old BOT, without our approval or knowledge of, imposed upon us, all of us, a $200 fee at the closing of the sale of your home to inspect for these violations AND will hold up the sale should you not comply! That's right, the light bulb issue has already happened to some people!
These are just three things I do know of that were coming our way. I can only project many other items would be added to this list should they have been allowed to continue to impose their personal tastes on everyone's lives.
Mailbox not uniform, you must replace. Paint color not that great or in need of repair, you must paint. Garage, oh you must park inside, no driveway parking, don't like your weeds, don't like your flower colors, don't like the rock you used, on and on until all freedoms are erased from the landscape.
You be the judge. Do you want to live like the Ric's of this world? Surfside United means to me, FREEDOM from severe dicatorship.
A new position, added to the org chart, should never happen without the approval of the membership. Especially one that is hired to impose harassment. Seems some people's power went to their heads and it failed.
I do NOT want to pay for someone to harass the members.
To 9:22: I'm just going to address one of your false statements.
Your explanation for #2 is incorrect. Never did anyone say that you wouldn't be able to have artwork, buoys driftwood, etc. This is something that is made up in your mind only. I would guess you are the same person who was going around saying that one of the other candidates was for it even though she has two properties, one that was sold, that has those exact things on it.
If you want the true intent behind the neat and tidy policy go talk to Raymer. He brought a complaint to the board about a neighbor for his messy yard and how it was, ironically, spoiling his "view". But of course that is OK, right?
To 5:18, good question and I agree.
The reason is this, they are hiding behind the covenant change. Their true intent is to do away with the HOA. They should have been honest and put that out there for the membership to know, but they didn't.
What I have learned in life is things change all the time. If left to their own devices, people often do great things. Of course, there is the rare instance of mental illness that could preclude positive change, but there's no need for anyone to impose on another. Additionally, @10:13PM, your need to be "right" is unattractive. Here's to hoping you stop trolling and harassing commenters with your righteousness. There's always a little bit of truth in every rumor and just because you come here and try and refute every comment that doesn't meet your narrative doesn't mean it isn't true. I hope you find your people, maybe they have their own blog? Any way, you won't be the star here but go ahead, keep trying with your bad self.
I, for one, would have no problem to "do away" with the HOA. It serves no purpose other than to provide water. Just ask your buddy Williams. He started off the member meeting on July 10th with this very statement "This is a water company disguised as an HOA"
Uh ha, yessiree, he sure did declare that first thing. So, why keep all the other BS? Your need to control human life is despicable.
Time for regime change starting with Ric, Tracy and compliance guy. Members don’t desire people who are not going to even take a pause when clearly many folks upset. The wise thing would be survey the residents if there is any doubt that the tree covenant is no longer in favor of majority. To not even demonstrate one ounce of caring when so many are concerned is a lack of responsibility by leadership and these people are not qualified to be ambassadors of this wonderful community.
Like Antoninus the End of the Movie Spartacus when the Romans asked "Who is Surfside United?"
I will answer,
"I am Surfside United"
@10:13, you are clearly wrong on who you think 9:22 is. None of these previous comments on this thread belong to me.
You again are clearly wrong in thinking the newly elected are hiding behind a covenant change and want to do away with this HOA.
Do we want every covanent reviewed? Yes. Do we want fairness for all? Yes. Will this be done on August 21st? No, it will take time and a proper process.
I need to ask why Ric even wrote this joke of an article in the first place? Obviously you Ric do not support your new board members. We email you questions and get no response or a response telling us it's harassment! What kind of a president does this?
Tell us why you wanted to be president? You yourself said to all of us at the special meeting, you did not want this role. Why did you vote for yourself?
Are you even fit to run this organization?
Let me make my position perfectly clear. This organization can either come correct, or be dissolved. One or the other.
There are few services this organization provides that couldn't be done better and possibly cheaper by private industry. If the board continues to ignore the will of the members, we may well find out.
@Steven Wallace absolutely perfectly stated!
10:13....This absurd concept that there is something scary afoot behind the candidate's success, or the drive of large numbers of members to seek changes in policy is ridiculous. The people I know who have participated in the election efforts are good people who are tired of the HOA's resistance to review of policies, and necessary changes - such as a major overhaul of the Tree restrictions.
As was pointed out here by many comments, members finally organized enough to promote and elect 4 members with similar views. There is no formal organization or specific "agenda" as some paranoid comments suggest. But the President's choice to entirely ignore the will of hundreds of members, and instead create baseless fear about member's motives, will certainly help galvanize a much larger effort to correct Minich's bizarre fear mongering.
I can't even believe he had the nerve to suggest Patrick Johansen is behind all of this - and Antifa ? You have to be joking. There must be just ONE disgruntled individual behind this - a record, over 500 votes cast in this election. And it's all just due to a radical fringe ? The motion to review and assess the Tree restrictions and a moratorium on cutting was wholeheartedly approved. More than half of the members have been put upon by this Tree policy, and are sick and tired of it.
Members were clearly ELATED when Williams announced that the Tree motions"PASSED !" I have never seen members leaving an Annual Meeting with such a sense of pure JOY !
We've seen 2 letters from Minich in 2 weeks, and in neither does he offer any explanation for his actions to ignore the member motions. It should be clear that he has no concern that he represent the member's will, a mandate to stop Tree topping and review /eliminate the useless policy.
I know for certain that there is no organized effort to eliminate "the covenants" or dissolve the HOA. The members involved in making changes to the HOA, want to retool and make the HOA function better and more equitably. Solid responsible members with good intentions.
I tried to get a Bylaw change on the ballot in May, which would require that members vote to approve/disapprove any BOT proposed covenant changes. The BOT ignored their attorney's advice to allow the vote, as the law requires. The Board voted against allowing the measure to go to the members to be decided. I have read several blog comments asking why the conservatives who like the Tree Cov. can't VOTE on it. On that, we all agree BOT ! Rogers, Scott, and Schweitzer voted to approve. We'll be returning to push this through, as it is standard in HOAs.
Wow. I had no idea about Surfside United until I read the letter Ric published. Have come to this awesome place for years. So I started reading comments from this last year and reflecting on what we have experienced.
We are SO EXCITED about the Surfside United and embrace the positive spirit and attitude and changes that will take place. It's so refreshing and we can't wait to get back to our place as it will feel different now.
We've been tempted to sell our place too but that cloud of feeling under control has lifted.
Thank you to all those who made this happen and I'm sorry I was not paying attention. We were feeling more unwelcome through the years and so tried to focus on just enjoying our own world there.
Now we can't wait to get back and enjoy knowing for one thing, that our trees do not any longer have to be butchered. So thankful! It's been heartbreaking to see not just trees our yard be cut but so many in others yards be destroyed.
Am so thankful! Great job getting a new team!
1008 - it's not over. These people have rammed their agenda down our throats, denying even basic communication. It's been that way for over a decade. They won't go quietly.
The Surfside "Status-quo" group is far worse than any "Surfside United". They will be doing anything they can to delay or side track the will of the members and the newly elected Trustees. They will use their power and positions to keep things the same. Why would they embrace any changes? It is working just fine for them now. It has to be made clear from the get go, (August Board Meeting) That changes are being made. The first step has to be to remove those in power positions.
We need to support the Trustees fully in their efforts to make the needed changes, We may never have the opportunity again, that we have now. For the first time in years, the members are excited and hopeful for meaningful changes. If the new Board does not succeed, I fear it will be the end of Surfside as an HOA. It is hard to not be skeptical, after so many elections with the hope for a change that didn't happen. Good luck new Board and thank you for stepping forward and enduring the abuse you are getting and will get.
Just my opinion and I may be wrong, but that's the way I see it.
Dead on, as usual, George. Thank you for caring so much!
Hey Ric, stay in your lane and take care of your own violations.
Your renters have a sign put selling kindling. Big violation!
That car of yours sitting with a flat tire and rusting out for sale, junk, another violation. Why do you have a bathtub sitting on the side of your house, it goes to the landfill.
That guy is so disgusting. He is as dumb as a westside stump.
Know what would make me more comfortable posting here? Increased civility and decreased anonymity. Just a suggestion.
A good suggestion, Steve.
The fear of recrimination is still high in lot of members. As we progress, I think you will see less use of anonymous.
I am seeing that living for the last decade in a virtual dictatorship has been stressful for more than myself.
I don't have any issues with 'anonymous' posts, nope, seeing how they have targeted Joanne and labeled Steve and George, now Ronda and anyone else who uses their name. For years people thought they were alone in their despair but no longer. Post as anonymous as much as you need to. It brings me comfort just knowing anonymous is there, in volume, supporting their neighbors, progress and change.
Anonymous' WILL show up when they are needed. I saw their faces on July 10th and will probably see them at the August meeting too. That's all I need from my fellow neighbors. Doing what's right when it's time to step up. I know who anonymous is, and I Thank you!
I am surfside united!
Surfside United
We want to thank all members who helped us and listened to our words. We hope you did your own research into what we said it all was available to any member given the wish and will to find out what exactly was going on in OUR association. BUT it took time and teamwork because yes SU is all of us everyone who has been selectively and unfairly treated by a small group of members who found a way to make their wishes the law of the land. Who did they target? Anyone they wanted who wasn’t them. They picked which covenants they wanted enforced which was as usual the tree covenant which has always been, untill recently, a constant minor problem. The last several boards have used this covenant as a hammer and aggressively weaponized it. The universal threat of financial punishment completed the assault. And all of this was done secretly by intent. Nothing was unplanned except the pandemic which they embraced as COVER.
The same refrain that these members have used for years to cement their hold on the membership is /was these other candidates want to ruin the HOA they want to get rid any or all the covenants that we all signed up for we bought for (PLEASE read past letters from board presidents Ric is using same rhetoric ). Where is the proof of this fact you keep claiming ???
You lost you were sent a message read the room. Patrick? You missed that message too. EVERY LEGAL SUIT HE WON. That told us in the eyes of the law he was right that told the board they didn’t have enough control. Clean up and govern fairly without preconceived powers that you have given and assumed with no legal support or leave. You were the ones teetering on collapse. Read the RCWs governing nonprofits as well as HOAs. You have tortured the reading of covenants which you never seem to have read but assume you know. You have used OUR lawyer to support your agenda. We have talked to commissioners, county attorney, various legal counsel from all over the state and the attorney generals office. You have listened to your own desires packaged them as facts and law and than fed them to well meaning new board members who may actually be good people but whom we can only see as your tools. Verify everything you have been told by anyone. Stop being used. Ric was given a chance to fly right but the pull appears to be too much . Shame on you all. Listen talk to everyone not just chairs board members but the members impacted by your decisions.Verify everything you are told please. Next year two new openings please people run for the board we need more help.
It was a campaign for new board members people! Is that not allowed either?
We are not done either. We still have August 2021 meeting and next year's election. Please show up at these meetings and let our voices be heard, again! Ronda can run for a full term next year and I sure hope she does. We are taking back OUR HOA!
I am Surfside United!
I am Surfside United
I am Surfside United!
To Rhonda;
Using your language, you're clearly wrong in you're assumption that I was talking about you. Even though I know who it was, since the comment was anonymous I left the name out of it to be kind. I'm sorry that you mistakenly took it personally, but again, I wasn't accusing you.
As far as the rest, time will tell.
To Cox, don't have the time. But I do find it interesting that all those reasons you stated as a defense for the newly elected you have use as criticisms towards those used by the organized J place people. There's a term for that, it begins with an H.
In both cases I acknowledged that working hard to organize tends to get results. But this year's outcome has been more "grassroots" driven and spontaneous. The olde guard became obsessive about control year after year. Time to go olde guard.
I would like to plead with the BOT to please just take a step back at this time and agree to stop the tree complaints for at least time enough to truly look at the tree covenants and see if they are still applicable. The members spoke very clearly at the July 10th meeting of a need to relook at our covenants.
Even if there has been an official or unofficial decision that the vote wasn’t legal, please listen to what a large number of our members are saying and wanting. These covenants should be fair and equal.
Our situation and in our neighborhood is that we are required to have 16 ft trees and yet we have a 40ft condo between us and the ocean! I’m pretty sure these heights were decided upon years ago when this HOA was started. Some of the lots showing on our platt map don’t even exist anymore! The ones to the west of us are actually the driveway for those condos!
We just need to take a breath and go over our governing covenants to verify they are timely and truly needed. I’m sure this neighborhood isn’t the only area that may not be in tune with reality.
Let’s try and solve our problems and return to a place that we can all feel welcome and at ease in! This past almost 2 years has been more than stressful to say the least. Let’s be the place where we don’t add even more stress and upheaval to our lives, please!
The last 11 years as a member has been more than stressful for my family. The damage is done and we will never recover. My hope is the next generation puts a stop to it , and no one is subjected to the evil we experienced here at our (what was supposed to be a dream) little RV lot in Surfside. The evil folks on the board past and present know who they are. I hope these folks can find peace someday.
The majority of the Trustees support the motions on the Tree restrictions, and I think we can assume that Minich and Olds will fight tooth & nail to keep the system in place.
I'm not sure why you are pleading for understanding from the devoted Tree toppers, when JPl. owners have been driving this "policy" for the last decade, probably longer.
Only Board action will make the needed corrections that Minich has stood in the way of. The motions were a legitimate use of a member meeting, and the Board president had pronounced the 2 Tree related motions to have "passed" in the verbal vote.
The "new" B. President does not have any authority to make HOA decisions without consulting the ENTIRE Board, which makes his blocking the moratorium an illegitimate action.
It's absurd to suggest that topping more trees is so urgent as to require an emergency intervention. The trees will continue to grow slowly and predictably, so no emergency, and no wild radical fringe movement. Just a swiftly growing number of members in good standing, electing Trustees who are unafraid to make changes to our policies and documents where needed, and seeking to give all members a voice in Covenant change.(Changing the Bylaws &Covenants to require member approval/disapproval on Covenant changes).
From the way his notes read, it appears as though Ric is carrying on the tradition of Clancy. the only difference is that Ric has voiced his to the community, although exhibiting a dose of paranoia along with it. I hope that the new Board will request, nee demand a full accounting of the HOA expenses for the previous 5 years. Then those need to be relayed to the members. This will provide us an accounting of monies spent on fines, lawyers, and the like, none of which Williams, Clancy, et al wanted anyone to see. Of particular interest tome is the $10k they received in Covid relief funds. The Board stated that it was spent on IT so Board meetings could be broadcast, and the task was given to Olds. We all know how that has turned out. Now a "real" IT person had to be hired to clean up the mess. What did Olds spend the money on? When my high school grandson can set up a Zoom conference for dozens of folks, why can't the Board expert, armed with lots of money do the same? Insist on a full accounting of HOA funds as a first order of business.
Paranoia - you mean like the evil Faction? That named coined by Mr. Johansen for the shadow group controlling Surfside. Or the elitist J place plot to punish all the "lowlanders" also originated from Mr. Johansen. All Mr. Johansen has done is sow seeds of division to accomplish his own goals. He is no better than the people he accuses.
I find Mr. Minich paranoid post in our HOA paper an insult and disgrace to the BOT. He wants answers on who Surfide United is, yet he won't respond to emails and inquiries from Surfside United (It is Us, the homeowners).
You can't have it both ways. Respond to your inquiries and you will have your answer. Honor the Member meeting motions from July 10th NOW -OR- You can wait until August 21 at 9am. Either way, I think you will get your answers then, why can't we get our answers?
I am Surfside United!
Since we can't get these thick skulls to hear our voices, I think a good ol' fashioned fair game of tug of war is in order, OVER THE CANAL!
That's right, all who support 'the faction' on the east side of the canal, all 'surfside united' on the west side. A big long rope. Whichever side ends up in the canal is the loser. We can do this on Aug 12th. Sounds fair to me if I have to keep showing up and doing the BOT's job for them on Saturday mornings, some real games are in order!
I am Surfside United
Really, you actually felt the need to make this comment?
@12:31 Oh lighten up you old stick in the mud!
That post gave me a visual which will keep me smiling all day. Some people need to learn to be a little more fun.
Go find something to fill your heart today you old curmudgeon.....
Hilarious!!! We're in. We'll be on the west side because we are Surfside United.
To 5:38:
Sorry, but your statement about Patrick is incorrect. In fact just a few months back he tried to file another lawsuit and it was tossed out.
A couple reminders for you. If you go back and read the judge's decision the main deciding point hinged on the fact that the board excused the fines, which is a bit ironic. If they would have not been nice in doing that things might have gone differently.
Another major fact and a reminder. If he wouldn't have change his approved plans and built what he submitted or had went back and got the changes approved everything could have been avoided. But of course many people conveniently overlook this fact.
Still, he sold his place at a high profit with his little cabin on it.
11:54....You are apparently too clueless to understand that Patrick has NOTHING to do with the effort that put fresh voices in the Boardroom. Members are angry about the resistance to independent voices, new approaches to the issues we face, total commitment to the destruction of Surfside's "landscape" - all part of the Olde Guard's agenda.
J Pl. interests have been championed for many years by J Pl. Trustees. They have been organized in their efforts, and successful in holding majority power. They have also created a divided Board by secretively making the Bus. Manager a sideline for decision-making, as well as using the "Executive Board"to make decisions, leaving the other Trustees out of the loop.
This kind of subterfuge, and the actions Minich has taken, are entirely inappropriate and without written precedent or authority. Is That EVIL ? I don't know what to call it - but devious and unworthy of positions of authority in our HOA Community.
LMAO August 8, 2021 at 12:14 PM. Thanks for inserting some joviality into the convo. We will be attending the August BOT meeting to make sure the member motions are honored one way or another. I am Surfside United.
Classic Cox - Expert on all resorting to name calling as first line of response. A self proclaimed expert on Surfside history who has been here about five years.
Yes, Patrick is very involved. He uses the same tactics he accuses others of by providing addresses of anyone who may have a differing opinion. An implied threatening tactic to suppress communication of anyone who doesn't share his position (the same thing he accuses the Faction of). All one has to do is read the comments on this blog and on the Nextdoor site to know he is involved.
Awaiting your 4 paragraph response as all know you must have the last word.
hmmm, @1:24, I don't know if you are factual. I have noticed people pick up on terms and verbiage presented by another on these pages because it presents the true meaning of how they really feel. It's pretty common actually. I have also seen others accused of posting something I, myself, have posted and/or repeated just because they want to attack an individual and it is something they may have parroted.
Cox does sometimes have a problem he chooses to ignore. That is one of tone. He can sound pompous, rude and insulting and can alienate his own allies. I have learned to just take what he posts as informative and never, I repeat never, challenge or argue with him about it. He is only human and is going to attack back, just like everyone else. My own functioning brain compiles what I have read and pieces together a reasonable scenario. Then I move along with my very own opinions or mood. That's right, mood. Not everything here is going to be 100% unemotional and factual.
This is free and is my coping mechanism to not just Cox posts but some other bullying as well. Do with it what you will.
@148pm- I have noticed the behavior police have been around trying to tell people they don't like what someone posted. It really is all about mood. I'm going to try it and ignore the parts "I" don't like or believe to be true. It only causes bickering anyway and I also have a functioning brain and should know by now just because someone says it doesn't mean it's true. Thanks, good advice.
I am surfside united!
Who wants a sign to display at the meeting?
WE ARE SURFSIDE UNITED
I,WE ARE SURFSIDE UNITED!!
Ric and Tracy, did you get your answers yet? The majority of the community is Surfside United.
I am proud of those who worked hard and endless hours towards a more peaceful community.
Right now the only thing destroying our community is a unqualified non communicative president with only his best interests at stake.
Let's pack the place on August 21st with our Surfside United signs!
We are Surfside United!!
@3:13 Yes, I want one, and many many many yard signs! I will even pay for them! See you all on the 21st. (I sure hope they have enough chairs)
124 - it doesn't take 4 paragraphs. Let me show you.
You are a liar.
See?
II AM SURFSIDE UNITED AND WILL BE AT THE 8-21 MEETING!
Ric and Tracy prepare for the number of MEMBERS that will show up and ask for you both to leave employment and BOT President representation!
I think you mean resignation.
I have never claimed to be an authority on Surfside history. I have a couple of friends who are though. I pay attention to BOT actions and attitudes.
Patrick has friends in Surfside, but the activism that has grown up around this election is just members finally organizing to take the Boardroom back from the sneaks who've been running the place in the last 5 to 10 years.
Patrick has nothing to do with it. It's a foolish notion that resistence to oppression is not instinctive -like survival. Patrick owns property in the area so he may follow the blog.
Who cares if Patrick is involved anyway? Maybe Patrick would like to have property here but the HOA is so distasteful it is preventing a purchase? Anyone who likes trees is welcome to show up at the Aug 21st meeting. I don't care if they live here or not. The more the merrier. Frankly, I'm sick of this bullish behavior. I hope Ric is removed on the 21st. He is a stain on our community.
The first and only action this new board has taken, was to elect the board president. Did they not know what they were electing? They need to correct this mistake or they will be no better than what we have had. They need to be more than an election promise.
I agree 11:22 Patrick is no hero. He cut and run after he got what he wanted. He was his own worst enemy. I agree, Ric should be removed on the 21st. Actually, they should call a special meeting and remove him now.
129 - Patrick was standing up against the goons before most even knew there were problems here.
Patrick left after beating these crooks. He should be commended, not banged on.
Wow, you folks have short memories, Patrick is no hero, he lied, lied, lied and then lied some more! Came here with a manifesto to make a lot of changes he didn’t like, tried to get the county officials and sheriff involved. All failures! He only won in court due to the fact the HOA let him out of his fines. Thats what happens with volunteers on the board! Tried to be nice and it hit us in the Ass in small claims court! Why did he buy into an HOA? Why did Blagg buy into this HOA? All they wanted is everything their way! Now you want change, well I agree some covenants need updating and revision, let’s give the new board some time. As for getting rid of everything and letting the county handle it, well just look around the county and see how their doing! One man Travis for the whole county with no cleanup budget. Be careful what you ask for!
Do you not understand the vote was 5 - 4, I assume knowing for sure prior BOT elected Minich and with him not being President he voted for himself. I am sure the new Trustees would not have elected such a Williams follower. How can we just REMOVE HIM on 8-21??????
Sorry, nothing against Travis but he really did nothing here but sit in the office and do property checks while members were gone! A private security company would be much cheaper, but in the same respect I see more Sherriff presence this year than years past.
Just Mr Sherriff, have a Deputy hang out on I Street with a radar gun! Easy in the summer, 100k we are paying you!
@ 6:26 PM
Thanks Fred, Kurt, Ric, John, Clancy, & all of you previous BOT members that choose to degrade members that chose to take you on, remember WE ARE SURFSIDE UNITED and we are tired of the BS and want to just be here and enjoy ourBeach Community.
You can’t imagine how fast some people drive down and back on the oysterville approach road. With more families here and people on bikes, it’s only a matter of time before something happens!
As I’ve stated previously, never since we purchased in 2008 have we ever witnessed anyone stopped for speeding on the approach road! They need to have an officer come down some evenings when there is a beautiful sunset and witness the speeding!
@August 10, 2021 at 6:26 PM
Judgmental much? geez, you act like surfside is some beautiful neighborhood. I don't know where you got your lenses but nothing here looks that great compared to other places where landowners are allowed to make improvements WITHOUT a bunch of old nosy people in their business.
You sound like a neat and tidy proponent. I think you should save the judgement attitude for the lord. Landowners have rights and if that includes not pleasing YOU, then so be it!
Oh and as for Travis, he does more for this entire peninsula in one day then you have in your entire life. Shut up already............
626 - better a short memory than a false one.
Patrick stood up to the very crap we are going through right now. The egotistical Board of Self interest, cherry picking which covenants they wanted enforced on which members. He fought against the unfairness, and he won. That is what really pissed you people off.
You sound exactly what the were fighting against. You got beat then, you'll get beat now. The old ways and old days are done.
I have an excellent memory, after so many years , 6:26 comes out with the same ole slander against Patrick. Sounds like a particular old fart board member who was instrumental in putting the screws to us several years ago. Patrick is far from a liar. He has more integrity than anyone in the "faction". Yes this is quite an accurate term for these goons, past and present.
you know what , I think I just became a member of Surfside United sitting here today. I will make the long drive on the 21st. I no longer fear these bad actors, and will not be shy at the meeting. Sick of it.
Agree completely 8:39! Please come! They cannot possibly ignore our concerns about the aggressive tree enforcement if there is a crowd there! Surfside United will not be silenced by the good old boys!
Eleanor Roosevelt: “Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.”
Enough said!
I have a great idea , lets rid ourselves of these small minded people making bad decisions for years in the HOA. Then us average folks can talk about events....a neighborhood BBQ, flying a kite , beachcombing, clamming, garage sales, grandchildren, .............Ya, I fit into average I suppose.
Average is good. I don't know why anyone is talking about a guy named Patrick anyway. No one knows him and he isn't involved with anything we are doing so time to move on.
And not one of these people should ever talk smack about Travis. Like 923pm said- He does more for this pen in one day than anyone here has done in their entire life, probably combined.
When and where is the bbq? I'm hungry.
Trustees can only be removed from the executive committee, not the board. Just read the bylaws. This is not a members meeting, no motions can be made at a regular board meeting by the members, only the trustees can make motions.
Some of you really need to ready the governing documents so you really understand how this works
We expect the trustees to remedy this situation at this meeting. WE, SURFSIDE UNITED, are attending so they will have to look us in the eyes if they do not fix this insubordinate president "they" elected. There, satisfied? You are so damned smug it rubs on my last nerve. I'm giving all you jackasses my full attention because I'm sick and tired of you underestimating our intelligence.
2:31 talk about smug, you had a choice to buy here or not. These rules have been established for over 50 years, so everyone is aware of the covenants. No one was forced to buy in a location that didn't suit their needs, so again, why are you all here if you didn't' want to be in an HOA?
No one forced anyone however YOU want to force 50 year old covenants. Why don't you move to a place which has stricter enforcement? I have probably lived here longer than you and now they want to tell me my lights are out of compliance? Everything changes, I know it's hard for you to wrap your brain around it, but the real world demands change. Some change you will like, some you won't. This is not a silo.
Nobody is saying be there for motions. People biych if members don't show up, now you are complaining because they want to show up....hmmm
We don't need members attending to make motions. We trust that the board members will make any necessary motions. We will be there to watch and listen to the proceedings.
I don't think they are under estimating your intelligence...
The motions were made and passed at the July 10th meeting! It was the members meeting! The only problem is that those motions and votes are evidently being tossed aside with no communication from our president. You know communication is a problem brought up many times and evidently fell on deaf ears!
To Aug 11 at 8:39 am. Dude your memory is not excellent. In fact you are in denial! We were here to witness his antics over and over. As a sitting board trustee he was nothing but trouble with a huge manifesto addenda! He did what he wanted, told people to knowingly bend the rules, he also changed his own plans after approval and got caught! Fact. You must of voted for our past losing president who is also in denial! I don’t understand why folks like you buy into an HOA and think the rules don’t apply to you! Go ahead and support the United group, be careful what you wish for!
8:39 says, first off , how do you know I'm a dude and not a dudette? I'm not a cowboy or cowgirl , or living in the Sudan or Egypt. I was here the entire time , from the time Patrick purchased until he left. I know all the gory details , from a very factual and personal point of view. I was never in lockstep with Patrick , but admired his courage to take on these nasty people. 10 years ago I did have a wish in Surfside, that did not come to fruition. Today, I look at this problem we have like a challenging project. Get the correct project managers and the rest will fall into place. The members are the project managers, I think they are the ones that call themselves this United group. I can get on board with that.
YESSSSSSS, WE ARE SURFSIDE UNTIED!
If everyone isn't happy then NO ONE should be! PERIOD! Landowner rights over entitle minded.
@8:39 your recall is accurate. We also were here and saw the same. Anyone who thinks Patrick isn't involved isn't looking hard. Nextdoor has plenty of examples.
Really? You honestly think some dude named Patrick has a magic flute and has mesmerized all of us who want to have a natural landscape? You are smoking something not sold in our local store. Get outta here.......
hahahahahaha, even I learned long ago, never follow anyone named Patrick or Rocky, especially Rocky, into the rabbit hole. There's some really weird people here, still living under their old teachings. Welcome to 2021!
I AM SURFSIDE UNTIED!!!!!
Can’t even spell United! Yes, let me follow with these folks, NOT!
Intentional spelling, but of course, if you're an old fart sack you won't get it. Just sayin..............
UN TIED to your old ideas of suppression and Bullshit!
I like that! Un tied, yes we are! No more good old boys making all the rules and not following the very written ones.
Well there you have it. Through the eyes of youth. Honestly, let the young have it. They have to live in it, figure out how to fix it, raise young in it. Our time is really done. What harm can they do to our comfort? None.
Catchy, I like it, Un tied, but you had me at fart sack!
You don’t have to be young to declare freedom from self serving, uncaring and deaf people! I’m old and declaring my freedom from being spied upon and dealing with these people who won’t except change! I dealt with those at work and guess what? Deal with change or be left behind as a failure!
Right on 11:27. I believe some of this is reference to the hot air brigade. Don't take it personal. What I have come to understand during this past year of reckoning, is I too have been taught by some rigid institutions and this has brought me zero joy. None. I have lived some other person's idea of life. Letting those hard wired lessons go is tough, trust me, there has been some very difficult days, but recognizing how freeing life can be by abandoning those old timer ways is bringing an awakening completely freeing my spirit. We have work to do for sure, but it's not work for the old institutions, but only for the future. The future of this planet. Nothing more, nothing less.
Dead on, 1127! Time for this organization to come correct!
HONESTY! TRANSPARENCY! COMMUNICATION!
WE shouldn't have to ask for these basic tenets from a not for profit organization, and we will accept nothing less!
See you on the 21st. If you value freedom and self-determination, you will be there.
Well folks, after the four new trustees joined Tom Rogers in an apparent coup to oust the board president, look what you have voted in! Rebels who think they know what they are doing and already having secret meetings! Well they failed! Good luck we’re are going to need it being led by these bozo’s! What a way to start, doing exactly what they accused the last board!
Ric still looking for support anyway he can.
Yes blame Rick for the new trustees illegal activities!
Dont know anything about a coup , but ask yourselves, who pushed people to this point??? If there is desperation , it is a reflection of toxic governance.
A coup to oust Minich, he brought any action that will be brought against him on himself! Who is putting this out there because no New Trustees know anything about this and it could not be presented until the 8-21 BOT meeting! Stop blogging your nonsense about the new BOT members want to eliminate the HOA, it’s just not true. We the members want equality from North to South and East to West!
THAT IS ALL!!!
Surfside United!
Sure Surfside United...
Surfside Divided
Board Policy regarding the Weekender
The weekender shall include fact based articles only
promote harmony
IT WILL NOT
promote personal blogs
I believe Ric went against policy when he wrote that sad sad article last week.
I can hardly wait to see what this Friday brings to the community, wo is me
326 - if the president will not follow his oath, and follow the will of the members, he should be removed immediately. Minich did this to himself. That letter was a virtual plea to either be fired or to resign.
Keep trying to spread rumors and innuendo. It, and you, are seen for what they are, self interested liars.
The coup is brought on by Annette Deleest. Now aren't you glad she is not representing us. Talk about a sore loser. Shame on her for the letter she has out there
@7:51 - then follow correct process and be transparent and open about it (isn't that the Surfside United mantra?) - don't do it behind closed doors.
When someone tags a time, please tag a date too. I can't go through the whole feed looking for a specific time
1118 - do you have a copy to post here?
Annette deleest wrote:
August 10, 2021
Dear Surfside Member,
I am writing to you today because I’m extremely concerned about the direction our HOA is headed. Though I did not get elected to the Surfside board, I want each of you to know I LOVE our beachside community and want to ensure it remains strong and successful.
An organized subversive group of Surfside members calling themselves “Surfside United” are on social media stating their goal is to remove all or significantly change many of Surfside’s long standing covenants. Some have stated they would like to “get rid of the HOA”. You may have received a mailing from them during the Trustee Election held last month or had them knock on your door making many false statements. It appears that a disgruntled former member, no longer living in Surfside, is one of the promoters. I believe Surfside’s covenants protect ALL of our rights and ALL of our property values. By giving up these rights, we give up control and are forced to rely on Pacific County for enforcement, which is virtually nonexistent.
The group advocating these changes have already called on their members to pack Surfside’s August board meeting to “demand change”. What changes are they demanding? I believe their first order of business is to eliminate tree height restrictions. The result will be increased fire danger and views of the ocean or lakes blocked or only available to a select few. Next is a return to complaint driven compliance, pitting neighbor against neighbor, compelling neighbors to file complaints against one another. This was not successful in the past and will not be successful in the future. They are also demanding a complete review of all covenants for complete removal or revision to make them weak and ineffective. Covenant application should be fair and equal for all Surfside members and should not change at the whim of a vocal minority.
I’m working to accomplish 2 goals and I NEED your help!
1. Notify fellow members, neighbors and friends of the attempt to remove or significantly change our covenants.
2. Ask fellow members to attend the August 21st Board meeting at 9:00 am and let the Board know they support our HOA and our covenants and that is why they bought into an HOA!
Would you be willing to call your friends and neighbors committed to the HOA and our covenants and ask them to attend this meeting and speak up? If you or your friends are unable to attend, please send a letter or email to the Board members and staff below letting them know you support our covenants and the protection they provide us -- that is why you bought in an HOA!
Send e-mails to:
Board President Rminich@surfsideonline.org
Board Secretary Mschweitzer@surfsideonline.org
Surfside Business Manager Tlofstrom@surfsideonline.org
Thank you for caring enough to take action to protect our community. I will continue to monitor this situation as well as other board decisions. If you would like to be completely removed from future mailings, please reply and indicate that in your response. I will respect your decision.
Sincerely,
Annette de Leest
Sent from my iPhone
hahahaha, talking out of both sides of her mouth. Disappointing by relieved someone so dumb did not get elected. None of that makes any sense. Weird.
This sentence is the dumbest of all. Can't make this shit up!
"I believe their first order of business is to eliminate tree height restrictions. The result will be increased fire danger and views of the ocean or lakes blocked or only available to a select few."
Stop Annette, really. You are not doing yourself any favors!
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