OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
Board of Governors Meeting
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Attendees: Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, John Thomas, Jim Zanavich, Paul Yellen, Gail Balavender,
Sheila DeLultrie,
Connie Gray
Absentees: Mark Phelan, Kevin Kossbiel
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by President Paul Rowean.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Board approved the minutes of the 5/1/2011 Board of Governors meeting.
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. Sheffield Brook
Paul Rowean said that Doug Whalen of Old Colony has indicated that Old Colony probably is not
going to continue to work with us on Sheffield Brook problems because they have too much else
going on. Paul said that he wants to meet with First Selectman Tim Griswold to discuss further the
Sheffield Brook situation, in light of the fact that the Town is spending $100,000 to fix a Duck River
problem that is the same as the Sheffield Brook problem.
B. Matheny – Clogged Storm Drain
Dino Genga is handling this situation, which has been determined to be an Association problem and
not Matheny’s responsibility. Dino will advise Mark Phelan as to what he is doing. The clogged
storm drain is part of the OLS drainage system that starts over on Brightwater.
C. Beach Clock
Jim Zanavich showed a picture of the beach clock he is ordering, which costs $285 and is battery-
operated.
D. Signs
Dino said signs on beach benches, road signs, traffic barriers, etc. all will be in place for Memorial
Day weekend.
E. Beach Person
Paul Rowean announced that A.J. Vaughan, grandson of Ann and a sophomore at University of
South Florida, has been hired to run the beach movies (starting June 24), move the beach trash
barrels up and down twice a week, move the signs for the open road change each Saturday
morning, open and close gates for mail delivery if security people are not here to do this (rainy days
– Gail will call A.J.), sweep the beach steps (he can use Paul Rowean’s blower), and perform any
other chores assigned by the BOG.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Sheila DeLutrie announced, as of 4/28/11, balances of $37,600 in checking and just under $91,000
in the ING account (earning approximately $60/month interest), and expenditures of $60,300 of
approved budget of $105,000, with remaining bills to come of about $9,400.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Beach (Dino & Kevin)
Dino reported that Harry Plaut has cleaned the beach several times already and Al Bond is
leveling the beach this weekend. Every truckload to
the dump (except seaweed) is costing us $70 -$80. A large tree stump near Finley’s needs to be
chopped up and removed from the beach
B. Security (Gail)
Security will not be here for Memorial Day weekend. Instead, we will have one road open (Billow)
and the other three closed. Harry Plaut will place the open road sign at Billow and A.J. Vaughan
will open the gates for mail delivery that Saturday from 12 – 2 PM. Dino will ask Harry to lighten
the base of the open road sign (it’s at least 50 lbs., he says). Gail requested that we announce
on the OLS website that Billow will be the only open road that weekend.
C. Drainage (see above)
D. Infrastructure and Capital Plan (Jim)
Jim said there is no news since the last BOG meeting. Paul Rowean has asked Ed Borycewski to
have the hole in the road in front of Bill Hardy’s house repaired when work is being done for Ed. We
will have to pay for this, since CT Water Company says it’s not their problem. Paul says it’s a
drainage pipe leak.
E. Nominating Committee (Dino)
Dino announced nominations for Officers (one-year terms): President-Paul Rowean; Vice-
President-Jack Thomas; Secretary-Connie Gray; Treasurer-Sheila DeLutrie. Nominated for 3-year
BOG positions: Mark Phelan and Jim Zanavich, and for one-year BOG position: John Cunningham
(to replace Jack Thomas).
F. WPCA (Jim)
Fuss and O’Neil will have two representatives at our June 18 Annual Meeting, and George Hicks
of DEP will also be there, as well as Dmitry Tolchinsky, head of the Old Lyme WPCA. Jim
emphasized the need to keep separate the $40,000 approved by OLS – a line item in our Budget for
the Wastewater Survey Study (WPCA). Our WPCA will become a permanent entity (not just a BOG
committee) if we go forth with the project. Fuss & O’Neil will set up the accounting. As of now, Fuss
& O’Neil’s total is about $56,000, so we will be paying them approximately $25,000 (after July 1), with
the State paying the remaining 28%.
G. Snow Plowing (Paul Y.)
At a meeting last Sunday of the Board of Selectmen and Federation of Beaches representatives,
many beach residents in attendance opposed the Town’s proposal to stop plowing beach roads.
Beach associations are state-chartered entities, quite different from private housing developments in
town (which do not get town plowing). The Selectmen agreed to continue plowing this winter, while
they deliberate further on the subject. They are forming a 6-member Snow Plowing Committee to
handle this matter, with 3 or 4 members from the Federation. Paul Rowean has recommended that
Paul Yellen be on this Committee. Paul R. also recommended to the Selectmen that if and when
they ever do stop plowing our roads they should increase our annual allocation (currently $13,500)
by $8,000 or whatever the plowing would cost us.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Sullo Issues
(1) According to Paul R., some sort of agreement is being worked out between Sullo and Eagan, with
Sullo offering to cover costs of repairs to her property.
(2) There is apparently a hazardous point in the stone patio in front of Sullo’s house which could
cause injury if someone trips on it. The Finley’s next door have suggested that Sullo put a large
planter over the hazard.
(3) Paul R. will warn Sullo of the June 30 deadline for construction work, and a reminder about our
“hammer law” will also be posted on the OLS website.
B. Boat Storage on the Beach
Bud Smart and George Finley want to put a kayak rack against the beach wall at Billow, to de-
clutter the beach, and would only ask the Association to pay for materials (up to $1000). However,
the Board feels that it’s the catamarans and zodiacs (sailboats and inflatables) that really are the
problem – they take up much more space than the kayaks. The Board decided that Paul R. should
talk to George about this.
MOTION – The Board wants an overall plan for boat storage on the beach – PASSED.
C. June 18 Annual Meeting
The primary purpose of the Annual Meeting is to approve the Budget and elect Officers and Board
of Governors. Paul distributed copies of the proposed agenda and the Board suggested a few
changes, including removal of time slots for agenda items. The Board agreed to keep the mill rate at
1.7, add a line item of $40,000 for WPCA, take out the snow plowing line item, and change Drainage
amount to $7500. Sheila and Paul R. will work out the final figures and distribute the Budget to the
BOG for approval.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:40 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
Board of Governors Meeting
Sunday, April 30, 2011
Attendees: Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, John Thomas, Jim Zanavich, Paul Yellen, Mark Phelan, Kevin
Kossbiel, Connie Gray
Absentees: Gail Balavender, Sheila DeLutrie
The meeting was called to order at 8:30 AM by President Paul Rowean.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Board approved the minutes of the 9/11/10 Fall Meeting and the 9/18/10 BOG meeting.
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. Sheffield Brook
Mark Phelan reviewed the drainage situation. In August, 2010, Paul Rowean sent a letter to
First Selectman Tim Griswold, to which Griswold did not respond. At the 9/18/10 BOG meeting, the
Board directed Paul to send the letter again, and a copy to The Day, which he did.
Mark said the question now is are we prepared to handle both drainage and sewage problems. He
thinks we are and that we can deal with drainage at a reasonable cost. Paul Rowean suggested that
we wait to see what the Water Pollution Control Authority says about drainage. At the last Inland
Wetlands Commission meeting, FEMA and the Flood and Erosion Commission said that another
severe storm would again damage houses in the flood plain. Steve Ross, chairman of the Flood and
Erosion Commission , said the only way to protect these properties from floods is to raise the
houses. Mark said the cost of drainage pipe installed to solve the Sheffield Brook problem would be
about $150,000. Twelve properties at Old Lyme Shores are affected, and none of these were
represented at the last Flood Commission meeting. They had received their checks from FEMA for
last spring’s damage and showed no interest in attending that meeting. Mark said he is willing to
continue to be involved and thinks we should form a flood district of properties involved.
Mark suggested that we see if we can perhaps interface with other affected properties to form a flood
district to address the problem. There are approximately 600 properties affected and each could
contribute $250 to solve the problem. They should petition the town to be involved in this issue and
it was strongly recommended that they address their petition to the specific town department related
to the situation – public works, for example – rather than to the Board of Selectmen.
B. Other Drainage Problems
The Matheny property at 40 Saltaire was flooded last year because roots had penetrated the
drainage pipes. In October, according to Mark, the catch basin problem was solved. Paul Rowean
said that the pipe that goes out to the street and eventually to Sheffield Brook needs repair to end
flooding of Norm Yester’s properties on Saltaire. Norm thinks this pipe is connected to the
Association pipe. Mark thinks if it is not Association property we shouldn’t fix it. We have fixed
private property drainage problems in the past, but the question is should we continue to do so?
Paul said it is not an expensive repair – around $1000 – and we should look into this problem. On
the other hand, we did not step in when the property behind Bill Hardy’s house on Billow Road
flooded last year. Mark said the hole in the road is still leaking water on Sea Lane. Paul said he
would ask Ed Boryczewski (66 Billow) to have the water company fix this when they do the work they
are doing for him.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Paul Rowean reported as of 3/1/11 account balances of $40,552 in checking and $92,323 in
savings. He is expecting the Treasurer’s Report from Sheila in a few days and will distribute it to the
BOG. He is asking Sheila to add a 4th column to her Budget report for projected future expenses
and also tabs, with more detailed information on certain budget items, which will be for Board use
only.
We may want to raise our mill rate slightly this year, as the Board of Selectmen is proposing that
the Town no longer plow snow on private roads. Paul hopes we can keep the cost down by joining
with other beaches in procuring plowing services, as we have with security.
Jim Zanavich requested that we leave in the Budget the $20,000 for WPCA.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Beach (Dino & Kevin)
Dino announced that Harry Plaut will provide beach cleaning services this summer for $19,900,
the same cost as last year. The Board approved this contract. Dino noted that the Town is going to
charge $30-$40 per truckload of beach debris this summer, a new charge. They won’t charge for
seaweed, but for all other beach clean-up materials we will have to pay. Dino reported about $300
in purchases of equipment for the raft and other beach items and $300 for painting of the buoys.
The Board approved these expenditures. Bike racks, signs, etc. will be in place Memorial Day
weekend.
B. Security (Gail)
Paul Rowean reported that Secure America will be our new guard company this summer, at a
reduced cost from last year ($16/hour instead of $17/hour). They will start Memorial Day weekend,
as requested by the Association. The Town says they will have walking police on the beaches this
summer.
C. Drainage (Mark)
Already covered (see above)
D. Infrastructure and Capital Plan (Jim)
Jim reported that work has begun on our Wastewater Study Project. Fuss & O’Neil will have two
representatives at our June 18 Annual Meeting. Our cost for this Project is approximately $25,000
(this may increase, but this is where we are at right now) and DEP will pay the remaining 55%. So far
we have a more than 60% return of the surveys sent out to the membership and this probably will
end up close to 70%. Jim emphasized that this is a Wastewater Study, not a sewer project. The
Fuss & O’Neil report should be ready for our Fall Meeting and if it is approved, we then will have to
change to an official WPCA instead of just a committee of our Board.
E. Nominating Committee (Dino)
Dino announced that he will not be continuing in office, so we need a candidate for Vice
President and one Board position. John Cunningham and Ed Boryczewski have expressed interest.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Beach Clock
The Board approved spending of up to $400 for a beach clock.
B. Activities Budget
Paul has been in communication with Julia Nixon regarding this summer’s activities. He noted
that the July 4th parade gets bigger each year. Participation has increased from 250 to 400 in the
past few years and Paul suggested that perhaps Julia’s budget for July 4th should be increased
10%. The Board approved a $200 increase (from $2000 to $2200) for July 4th activities.
C. Beach Person
Paul will try to get Adrian Paulding to fill this position again this year. He was paid $100/week
last year to run the beach movies, sweep the waterfront areas, put up and take down beach trash
barrels, etc. – miscellaneous piecemeal jobs. The Board approved a 20% increase in pay for this
job to $120/week. Paul suggested we purchase a blower for the beach person to use to keep the
bench/waterfront areas clean.
D. Sullo/Eagan Issue
There is an ongoing conflict between the Eagan family of 61 Brightwater Road and Joe Sullo of
9 Sea Lane. Sullo’s renovation project includes installation of underground electrical wiring. The
BOG approved Sullo’s request for permission to dig up and then repair Sea Lane, to accommodate
this project. In carrying out this project, however,
CL & P found it necessary to deviate from the original plan approved by the Board and extend their
digging to a portion of the Eagan property. More than 50 years ago, the power company was
granted a 5 – 6 foot easement on property abutting our roads, so they were within their rights, but
Mary Eagan won’t accept this and wants the offending pipe moved one foot. CL & P has already
said they won’t move the pipe.
The general consensus of the Board was that the pipe should be left where it is. John Thomas
will work on the wording of a building “code” for Old Lyme Shores, incorporating provision that
neighbors within 200 feet of a project be informed of any project that might impact them.
E. Snow Plowing
Paul Yellen is looking into getting bids from three contractors.
F. Annual Meeting – June 18
Paul is concerned about the crowded agenda for this meeting and suggested the Board
consider starting the meeting at 9 AM. In the interest of saving time, Committee Reports will be
distributed as a handout to members as they arrive. Paul will distribute the Budget to the BOG for
approval prior to the June 18 meeting.
G. Absentee Voting
Discussion of this will be postponed until the Fall Meeting.
H. Federation of Beaches and the Board of Selectmen
Paul briefly mentioned the Federation’s consideration of the idea of becoming a PAC.
The Board requested that Paul ask Attorney McCoy if there is a legal basis for the Town to stop
plowing our roads.
I. Next Board Meeting
The next BOG meeting will be at 9 AM on Saturday, May 21 at Paul Rowean’s house.
This meeting was adjourned at 10:50 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
FALL MEETING
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2010
Meeting at Mile Creek School was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Paul Rowean.
1. INTRODUCTION
Paul announced that future Association meetings will be held at the Middle School, across from Town
Hall in the center of Old Lyme, which will provide a more comfortable setting with more chairs, better
microphones and other amenities.
A moment of silence was observed in honor of victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. OLS BOG
members and officers, as well as Scott Boulanger, President of the Federation of Beaches, were
introduced. Paul thanked Paul Graml, past president and former Board member, for his years of
service and presented him with a gift certificate to express the Association’s appreciation.
2. TREASURER’S REPORT
Treasurer Sheila DeLutrie announced that 86% of Association dues have been paid to date and that
we currently have $99,661.13 in our checking account, $40,525 .71 in the ING savings account. She
anticipates approximately $37,000 in expenses through next June 30.
3. NEW BUSINESS
Julia Nixon thanked all who participated in and contributed to recreational activities this past
summer. She announced the schedule for next summer, including:
July 2 (celebration day) - July 4th parade, sand castle competition, and beach races, plus Michael
Cleary band concert in the evening
July 16 - Talent Show
July 21 - Ladies Luncheon at the Dock & Dine
August 5 - Carousel Night at Sound View
Movies every Friday night on the beach, and perhaps another movie night for older children
The calendar of activities will be enclosed with the Annual Meeting mailing next spring.
4. KEY SPEAKER - GEORGE HICKS
Paul Rowean introduced George Hicks, environmental engineer for 17 years with the State of
Connecticut Dept. of Environmental Protection (DEP) and project manager for the recently
completed project at Point of Woods (POW). He reviewed this project, which dates back to beach
closures in 1998, due to bacteria, attributed to sewage problems on 67 properties. The Town of Old
Lyme rejected Point of Woods’ request for more studies, so they applied to the State DEP and DPH
(Dept. of Public Health) for assistance. DPH and Connecticut Water Company funded water system
work and DEP funded the sewage system. POW received a $2.5M DEP grant and an $8.2M DPH
loan and each property owner is being assessed approximately $20,000 over 20 years at 2%
interest.
DPH is currently reviewing the Town’s recent proposal to upgrade its sewage disposal policies,
including requiring minimum 1000 gallon septic tanks. But there is widespread concern that simply
demanding more of individual property owners may not meet long-term DEP requirements..
Mr. Hicks responded to many questions and comments from the floor. He said that the DPH has
concerns about the Town’s legal authority to determine septic policy for Old Lyme. Regarding the
notion that the Town is reacting to a State order to improve septic systems, Mr. Hicks said there is no
active enforcement order that he knows of and he pointed out that Point of Woods initiated its project
- not the State, not the Town.
It was noted that the wastewater plant in New London, which is where Point of Woods sewage is
being pumped, has no capacity issues and can handle additional sewage. Mr. Hicks said that some
modifications would no doubt be necessary to make it technically feasible for OLS and other beach
areas to send sewage to New London via Point of Woods’ pumping system.
Paul Rowean said that Old Colony is one step ahead of us in this regard - they are voting at their
Association meeting tonight on a proposal to take the initial step towards hooking into Point of
Woods pumping system. Point of Woods has a pump that has 24/7 capability and could handle
additional input, so Old Colony is voting tonight on whether to hire an engineering firm to study the
feasibility of such a plan.
Several residents voiced support for OLS following Old Colony’s lead - better to act now than wait
until it’s too late. Probably the Point of Woods pump cannot handle all the beaches, so we’d best
start now -“better now than later,” according to Jack Reynolds. Our engineering study would
probably cost around half of Point of Woods’ study; theirs was $130,000, of which DEP paid 55%. So
in our case, our cost would be around $30,000 and DEP’s $35,000. Point of Woods has just under
500 homes, whereas we have 192, and Old Colony has 208.
After extensive further discussion, the following MOTION was PASSED:
to authorize the Board of Governors to set aside up to $40,000 for a study, working with DEP, to
determine the best plan for sewage disposal and potentially other utilities at Old Lyme Shores.
5. COMMITTEE REPORTS
Security - Gail Balavender reported that overall we had a very good summer. We were happy with
Securitas and perhaps came in even a little under budget for security. We did have to extend night
guards on weekends from 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM to provide needed coverage.
Drainage - Mark Phelan said that there were several routine maintenance projects scheduled for this
Fall, but that the drainage catch basins had already been cleaned out.
He reported that the attorney hired by the Association in response to the Town’s refusal to
participate in the cost of engineering for the FEMA drainage study of Sheffield Brook has discussed
with the Town Attorney the possibility of the Town’s creating a drainage improvement district for the
Sheffield Brook drainage area. This would include all properties which drain into the Brook. It would
allow the Town to participate in the costs of the improvements required, and to issue bonds for any
improvements. The costs for paying off the bonds would be assessed against properties which drain
into the Brook, and which are therefore part of the Improvement District. So far, the Town has not
been responsive to this suggestion.
Comments from the floor included:
Sally Howley’s opinion that the problems begin north of Route 156 and the Town, not us, is
responsible for Sheffield Brook.
Paul Graml noted that we hired an attorney to determine ownership of Sheffield Brook. Mark Phelan
said that the majority of the Brook is on private property owned by Old Colony Association owners.
Very little, if any, of the Brook is on Old Lyme Shores property. However, a substantial part of Old
Lyme Shores does drain into the Brook.
Mary Howley stressed the need to keep the drainage pipe open, to prevent flooding during storms.
Beach - Beach cleaning continues on weekends in September. Swim lines and buoys will be
removed by the end of September, traffic gates and bike racks will be removed next week, and snow
fencing will be installed on the beach in November. Contract for beach cleaning will be negotiated in
February, 2011.
Infrastructure - Connecticut Water Company says that a pot hole due to leaking water pipe near Bill
Hardy’s house (61 Billow) is not their responsibility, but it must be repaired.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:55 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray, Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING
SUNDAY, AUGUST 29, 2010
Meeting held at Paul Rowean’s house at 29 Billow Road, called to order at 9:35 AM by Paul Rowean.
Present: Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, Mark Phelan, Paul Yellen, Jim Zanovich, Jack Thomas, Connie
Gray
Absent: Gail Balavender, Sheila DeLutrie, Kevin Kossbiel
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion was passed to approve minutes of August 7, 2010 Board of Governors meeting.
2. COMMUNICATIONS
Paul R reviewed letter from John Cunningham (21 Billow Road) indicating interest in being on the
Board of Governors and perhaps assisting in OLS website maintenance.
Paul R presented request from Joseph Sullo (9 Sea Lane) for Board approval of installation of
underground wiring in conjunction with his home upgrading project. The Board approved this with
the requirement that Association roads be restored to original condition.
CL & P has finally restored service to the street light at Bellaire and Sea Spray intersection.
3. OLD BUSINESS
Sheffield Brook – Paul R distributed copies of his letter to Old Lyme Board of Selectmen dated
August 18, 2010 regarding Sheffield Brook drainage problems. The Board of Governors advised
him to send another copy, if he has no response by September 18, 2010.
Paul R reported that Doug Whalen of Old Colony wants OLS to approve at our Fall Meeting our
share ($19,000) for an engineering study of Sheffield Brook. Dave Roberge, FEMA officer in Old
Lyme, is very supportive of our pursuing this issue. The question is whether we want to proceed with
a FEMA grant application – if we do, the Town has to be the applicant and the application must be
accompanied by an engineering study. Mark P suggested that he and Paul R meet with Doug
Whalen to discuss these matters. Paul R will try to set up this meeting for this week and will send
Doug a copy of his 8/18 letter to the Selectmen.
4. TREASURER’S REPORT
Balance Sheet and Budget Update will be included with Fall Meeting mailing. As of 8/24/10: cash
balance is $104,054.07, accounts payable $66,926.28, slightly more than half of Association taxes
have been paid, expenditures $37,023.36, net income $31,549.67. Progress is reported in
collecting delinquent taxes – from $9,000 we are down to $3,000.
5. FALL MEETING
Paul R. distributed copies of Call to the Fall Meeting.
DEP Speaker – George Hicks, DEP environmental engineer and project manager of the Point of
Woods project, will discuss this project and its implications for us. This was an $11.2 million, 9-year
project, encompassing water delivery, sewers, fire hydrants, drainage, and roads. More than $8
million of the cost was paid by the State and the balance of $3 million is Point of Woods’ cost (518
households) to be paid over 20 years. George Hicks has already spoken to Old Colony on the
subject and he thinks we should join with Old Colony on a similar project. Initially, this would entail
forming our own Water Pollution Control Authority and hiring consultants to prepare the RFQ, the
scope of work, and the actual engineering study and plans. DEP would pay 55% of all this
preliminary expense, leaving approximately $30,000 as our (OLS and Old Colony) responsibility.
According to Hicks, the Town cannot stop us from getting sewers, the State is the entity that
approves this. If the total project cost were around $5 million, DEP would pay $2.8 - $3 million. Paul
R said that he will call for an Association vote on the $15,000 expenditure for the preliminaries. Paul
R estimates that Hicks’discussion will probably take about 50 minutes.
Other Agenda Items:
New Business – vote on creation of Water Pollution Control Authority.
vote on our share of cost of study for drainage project.
Old Business - Paul R will check files to see what to include.
Committee Reports –
Beach: Dino will discuss need for new anchors for the raft and repair of crack in drainage pipe at
Billow end of the beach.
Infrastructure: Jim Z is looking into getting a clock for the beach end of Brightwater.
Security: Gail will discuss need for extending late-night hours on weekends.
Member Business – Julia Nixon’s proposed schedule for next summer’s activities.
George Merritt’s letter to other beach associations (included with mailing to membership).
A MOTION was passed to send to the membership the Call to the Fall Meeting with changes as
discussed at this meeting.
6. NEW BUSINESS
Dino discussed the need for new “EXIT” signs. The Board passed a MOTION approving expenditure
of no more than $1,000 for 14 “EXIT” signs (one for each “STOP” sign). Dino would like to get a few
of these signs up before the Fall Meeting.
Jim Z will report to Connecticut Water Company a leaking water pipe near Bill Hardy’s house.
The Board passed a MOTION to thank Bud Smart for all of his help with signs and give him a $100
gift certificate in appreciation.
Dino will look into possible changes in the nominating process for Association positions and present
his findings at next year’s Annual Meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:50 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7, 2010
Meeting held at Paul Rowean’s house at 29 Billow Road, called to order at 9:10AM by Paul Rowean.
Present: Sheila DeLutrie, Dino Genga, Kevin Kossbiel, Julia Nixon, Mark Phelan, Paul Rowean,
Jack Thomas, Paul Yellen and Jim Zanovich;
Absent: Gail Balavender and Connie Gray.
Minutes of June 19, 2010 Annual Meeting were approved on a motion by Dino, seconded by Kevin
and unanimously approved.
Minutes of July 10, 2010 Board of Governors Meeting were approved on a motion by Dino, seconded
by Kevin and unanimously approved.
OLD BUSINESS
Sheffield Brook - update by Paul R regarding the letter dated, July 29, 2010 from our attorney, John
Bennet to the Town Attorney regarding establishing a drainage district to deal with the flooding
caused by the Sheffield Brook. Mark will prepare a letter to this Board to address the issues to be
reviewed with the 1st Selectman. Within our Beach Association the Board will review what can be
done regarding the green pipes that carry the surface runoff and deal with removing the sand that
are blocked. Paul R will circulate the February 10, 1999 drainage study for review by the Board. The
Flood and Erosion Commission will be going back to the Board of Finance concerning having the
cost of the study approved. Discussion was had concerning asking the homeowners directly effected
by the flooding problem to contribute to this study. The consensus of the Board was not in favor of
such a course of action.
TREASURERS REPORT
Checking account $11,676.26, the savings account was closed, the ING account $40,500.69.
Payments have been received for the new association dues of about $27,000 and the Association
spent approximately $32,000. Past due association dues of about $1,000 were received from two
properties. Shelia is preparing a report for the next board meeting.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Insurance - under review by Paul Y. He will review the issue of alcohol consumption at Association
functions and the issue of insurance coverage for the Association. For private events the
Association should receive liability insurance coverage so that the Association is named as an
additional insured.
Security - the issue of golf carts on the Association roads was discussed. Notice will be posted on the
bulletin boards to remind everyone that golf carts are not allowed on Association roads.
Infrastructure - Jim Z is reviewing. Discussion took place concerning the Association’s rights
concerning the water pipes that run along Brightwater Road and having same replaced by the Water
Company.
Sewer District issues- A sewer line is being planned to run from Old Colony to Point of Woods along
Route 156 and the question of same benefitting our Association.
Sign - The plan is to place a sign on the fence separating the beaches between Old Colony and our
Association.
Julia Nixon reviewed the activities planned for 2011. July 2 will be the day for the 2011 4th of July
parade to start at 10AM with July 3rd as the backup date in case of rain. Sand castle building will
follow. That night there will be a band at the bench area of Billow. On July 16 there will be a children’
s talent show. On July 21 there will be a Ladies Luncheon scheduled to be held at the Dock & Dine.
The projected cost is $21.00. On Tuesday nights, the plan is to have a movie at the beach for the
older children. Julia is looking into having a band play on the beach at a later date to be funded by
private donations. Discussion was had concerning updating our web site with pictures of current
events to be done by a young person looking for a project. The issue of having a fire pit on the
beach during some of these activities was discussed and rejected because of possible liability
issues. Instead of using flags to mark the race area, it was decided that plastic cones would be used
so that one is not injured from a possible fall on the flag stick. Need to review the budget for next
year to pay for the social activities. Julia will do up a flyer for the fall meeting regarding the sale of T-
shirts to help privately fund some of these activities.
NEW BUSINESS
Jim Z will look into getting a clock to be placed at the bench area of Brightwater.
Dino will review the nominating procedures for the Board of Directors and possible changes to same.
The questionaire from the Town regarding summer verses all year round residences was discussed.
Mark advised the Board that in the fall he will be having his water service changed and updated so
that his water service will come in directly from the street on Sea Lane. The Board did not feel that
any approval was needed.
Meeting was concluded at 11:10 AM.
Respectfully submitted by Jack Thomas
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING
SATURDAY, JULY 10, 2010
Meeting held at Paul Rowean’s house at 29 Billow Road, called to order at 9:07 AM by Paul Rowean.
Present: Gail Balavender, Sheila DeLutrie, Dino Genga, Kevin Kossbiel, Paul Rowean, Jack Thomas,
Paul Yellen, Jim Zanovich
Absent: Mark Phelan, Connie Gray
Minutes of May 22, 2010 Board of Governors Meeting approved on a motion by Dino, seconded by
Jim and unanimously approved.
Minutes of June 19, 2010 Annual Meeting were reviewed and two corrections to be made. Dino is to
circulate by email for approval at the next meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
Sheffield Brook – update by Paul R discussing the actions of the Flood and Erosion Commission in
approving a study of these issues at a cost of $60,000 to find out the problems faced and the
possible solutions. Paul also discussed the turndown by the Board of Finance. It appears that
OLSBA should develop our own master plan to address our specific needs and a separate plan to
address the question of upgrading the piping for the Sheffield Brook. A meeting will be scheduled by
our Board to address these specific issues. Our Board has retained a lawyer to speak directly with
the attorney for the Town regarding the Sheffield Brook issues.
Annual Meeting Issues – The sight line distance and tree branches at intersections should be looked
at and addressed. Next year we will send out the old budget from the prior year with the new
proposed budget so comparisons can be made easily. Update to the Capital Plan regarding the
water system issues was discussed. Each beach association has paid for their own new water
pipes. Brightwater Road may still be eligible to have the water company pay for and upgrade that
pipe line since the upgrade is needed by the water company as part of its master plan. Follow up is
needed to address this issue again. Future capital plans should include possible items that will cost
$3,000 or more. During the July 3 & 4 weekend all gates should be opened earlier than 9 AM,
especially on the day of the parade.
TREASURER’S REPORT
Checking account $63,216.13, savings account $10,576.29, ING account $500.29. More funds
should be transferred into the ING account to earn higher interest. There is a two day turnaround
period. A motion by Jim, seconded by Dino, all in favor to close the savings account and transfer
those funds plus additional funds for a total of $50,000 to the ING account. Association fees of
about $9,000 are still owed. Sheila will prepare a detailed report for the next meeting to address
these past due collections. The new tax bills are about 40% done and our contact name and
telephone number will be listed on each bill.
Audit status – the report of Jamie L. Murray, dated July 8, 2010, was reviewed and recommendations
accepted. A summary of the audit showed good results and only minor comments. Only three
disbursements did not have supporting documentation. As agreed, the $100 fee will be paid.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Beach – Kevin will work with Dino on the beach issues. There is a traffic sign down and an entrance
gate in need of repair. Dino will have Bud Smart look at it. Paul R will follow up and get cost
estimates, if necessary. Deep holes on the beach should be filled so that cleaning equipment can
do a better job each morning.
Infrastructure – Jim will take over and work with Jack on Capital Plan issues.
Insurance – the new liability and excess insurance policy that was just received will be reviewed. The
insurance requires that signs be posted within 21 days regarding swimming at the beach at own risk
since there is no lifeguard present. Paul Y will review and advise. Question to be addressed
concerns bond insurance coverage for the Treasurer.
Security – entrance sign should be moved on Friday night after beach movie is over. The security
people should do a better job of enforcing the beach ordinance of no eating and beverage
consumption on the beach. The security guards should be better dressed. Gail will follow up with
same. Jim will review the existing signs at the beach and update as needed.
NEW BUSINESS
Paul R will review and advise us concerning the issue and procedure of private events held on the
beach.
A meeting will be set up with Julia Nixon to review social events and plan for next year.
Motion by Gail, second by Dino, all in favor that the Association give to each new cottage owner a
welcome kit that provides a welcome letter from the Board of Governors, the Rules and Regulations
of the Association, two stickers for their licensed motor vehicles, Members Directory, Board of
Governors Directory and a bottle of wine, all to be contained in a basket.
Gail has provided the security people with the list of property owners and cottage addresses for use
at the gate.
Regular summer meetings of the OLSBA Board of Governors were planned to be held at Paul
Rowean’s house at 29 Billow Road at 9:00 AM as follows: Saturday, July 10, 2010, Saturday, August
7, 2010 and Saturday, August 28, 2010. The fall meeting of the OLSBA was set for Saturday,
September 11, 2010 at 10:00 AM to be held at the Mile Creek School.
Meeting was concluded at 11:11 AM.
Respectfully submitted by Jack Thomas
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL MEETING - Saturday, June 19, 2010, at 10:00 AM at Mile Creek School.
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. INTRODUCTION
A. Welcome
Paul welcomed everyone and introduced Officers and Board of Governors.
B. Tribute to Deceased
Paul asked for a moment of silence in memory of those who have died in the past year:
Laurette Soucie, Nancy Liljedahl, Gail Burns-Smith, Donna Powers, Rosalie Hicking, Liz Putman,
Bridget Ahern-Wheeler, Ganiford Graml, Adam Price, Alfred Paradis, Pat Sullivan, William Wieler,
Irene Kalweit, Jennene McSweegan, Mary Rose Paulding, Dick Walsh, Charles Muska, and Stephen
Randall.
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. Voting Procedures and Election Requirements
Paul Graml thanked Paul Rowean for devising and implementing the new voting card system for
Association meetings to assure one vote per household.
He noted that our charter, passed in 1947 and amended in 1965, establishes that holding
Association office or Board of Governors membership requires that a person be an OLS property
owner. Those whose property is in the name of a trust, LLC, or some other entity would need to
change the form of ownership to meet the charter requirement for holding office or BOG
membership.
B. Sheffield Brook Project Update
Paul Graml reviewed the year’s events regarding our efforts to deal with Sheffield Brook drainage
problems. OLS worked with Old Colony and the Town, anticipating that our collaboration would
result in an engineering study to support the Town’s application for a FEMA grant for this project.
Ultimately, however, the Board of Finance voted the project down, saying the Town should not fund
projects on private property. So for now this plan is dead and we are looking into other approaches
to the ongoing drainage problems.
In the meantime, according to Mark Phelan, the Town is supposed to check the drainage pipe to be
sure that it is open, when a big storm is predicted; Mark calls the Town to remind them of this, when
a really big storm is forecast.
C. Speed Control
Paul Rowean reviewed the results of the speed bump survey, noting that there was a 76% response
to the survey and 84 residents rejected the speed bumps on Billow Road, so the bumps have been
removed. Bud Smart will be making eight more traffic barriers like the five he made last year, and it
was suggested that these barriers be placed a foot or two further into the road so that children on
bikes, pedestrians, etc. can pass safely to the right.
D. Ordinances
Paul Graml stressed that owners are responsible for their guests and renters being aware of and
observing the rules here at Old Lyme Shores. Copies of our Ordinances have been distributed to
each residence and should be posted therein. It was pointed out that the Association is subject to
liability, a very real and potentially costly consideration, so rules enforcement should be a major
concern for everyone here.
Regarding overgrown trees and bushes that obstruct views and create hazardous traffic conditions,
Paul Graml recommended first speaking to the property owner and then, if no change is made,
notifying the Board of Governors.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Treasurer Sheila DeLutrie reported account balances of $64,716 in checking and $11,113 in
savings.
Regarding the equity balance on the Balance Sheet, someone mentioned the interest expressed by
members last year in increasing the surplus and Paul Graml said a slight increase is indicated and
we hope to continue this growth in next year’s budget.
It was suggested that we consider proposing a cell tower at the ballfield, to increase income, and it
was noted that the Siting Council, the overseeing body, currently has pending three sites: behind the
South Lyme laundromat, down Route 156 by the self-storage area, and further down near the golf
course. A Town proposal for a cell tower near the Cross Lane firehouse was rejected by vote at the
Annual Town Meeting last January.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Security
Gail Balavender reported that we have a new security provider this year - Securitas - in collaboration
with other Federation of Beaches members, we are getting a better rate than from Ace Security.
Guards will start next Saturday, June 26 (Sea Spray = open road); we will have two day guards (one
at the gate, one on the beach) 10 AM to 5 PM, plus one night guard on week nights 7 PM to 1 AM
and two night guards on weekends 8 PM to 2 AM. All streets will be open Saturday and Sunday of
July 4th weekend, with a guard at each.
Gail reminded residents that renters and guests need to tell the guard the address and homeowner’s
name when entering OLS, so be sure to provide this information. Gail has windshield stickers for
residents. Parking on our roads is prohibited - all four tires must be off the pavement. Additional
parking is available at the ballfield and permits for windshields are available in advance from Gail.
Someone suggested that we consider having guards on duty Memorial Day weekend, as has been
previously suggested. The Board will consider this for next year.
B. Beach
Dino Genga reported that beach maintenance began in the spring with removal of debris and
grading of the sand. Dino noted the importance of clearing excess seaweed; it used to be very thick
in the water at the Billow end of the beach and this has been noticeably alleviated.
C. Drainage
Mark Phelan thanked Paul Graml for his good update on the drainage situation. Now we need to
concentrate on Sheffield Brook and how to keep it as clear as possible. We also need to determine
who owns Sheffield Brook - who is responsible, who is culpable? The Board has approved hiring an
attorney to research these issues and to deal with the town’s attorney accordingly.
In the meantime, the Board is looking into what OLS can do on our own, if we have no cooperation
from the Town or Old Colony. To this end, we had Joe Wren of Indigo Land Design prepare an
engineering report which proposes two plans. First, he recommends that we maximize the drainage
output at Sheffield Brook by replacing the current culvert with a much larger and more efficient
system, at an estimated cost of $140,000. Another plan entails 750 feet of piping on Sea Spray
down to Bellaire, across to Saltaire and on down to the existing outlet, at an estimated cost of
$150,000.
Our next step in this matter is to get answers to our legal questions regarding Sheffield Brook. It was
noted that the Town was called on a Thursday during last March’s flooding and their response didn’t
come until five days later when they removed a trash bin that was stuck in the opening of the
drainage pipe.
D. Capital Needs
John Thomas discussed a chart on the screen at the front of the room - “Capital Needs Priority
Grid.” It was too small for the audience to read, so John said it would be posted on the OLS website
and Paul Rowean said he would provide a paper copy to anyone requesting same.
One attendee questioned the inclusion of a particular item in this plan - “replacement of water
delivery pipes” - noting that this is the responsibility of Connecticut Water Company. However, it was
pointed out that other beach associations participated in the cost of upgrading their water delivery
systems.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. 2010-2011 Budget
Paul Graml presented the budget and proposed 1.7 mill rate, pointing out that this would generate
an increase of approximately $7,000 more for reserves, with a bottom line of $28,700 in reserves.
MOTION - to accept the 2010-2011 Budget and mill rate of 1.7 as proposed - PASSED
Julia Nixon once again requested that the Association provide instruction to its members in how to
fight the Town regarding assessments. She feels that we need guidelines for action to challenge
the increased taxes imposed on beach people by the Town. Dave Woolley pointed out that there is
a very clear appeal procedure spelled out in the Town’s revaluation notices to residents, which
should be pursued before any other approach is considered.
B. Beach Person Position
Paul Rowean announced that this position will be filled once again this year by Adrian Paulding.
C. Election of Officers and Board Members
Nominating Committee Chairman Paul Rowean presented the BOG-approved slate of
nominations:
Board of Governors -
Gail Balavender, Jim Zanovich, Paul Yellen, and Kevin Kossbiel
Officers (one-year terms) - President-Paul Rowean; Vice-President-Dino Genga;
Secretary-Connie Gray; Treasurer-Sheila DeLutrie
MOTION - to accept the slate as presented - PASSED
6. MEMBER ISSUES/OTHER BUSINESS
A. Entertainment
Julia Nixon announced Fourth of July events to be held on Saturday July 3, including the parade,
sand castle competition, and beach races. She also said there would be a Talent Show on
Saturday, July 17. And Paul Graml announced that there would be a Michael Cleary Band concert in
the evening on July 3.
B. Sewage Amendment
Dave Woolley reported that the Town is proposing an amendment requiring 900 gallon septic tanks,
with two open public meetings to be scheduled for July and August to discuss this proposal.
C. Dumping at the Tracks
It was requested that there be no more dumping of grass clippings and other debris at the railroad
tracks on North Lane.
D. Appreciation
Barbara Beal thanked Paul Graml for his service to the Association and Mike Francoeur concurred
with an expression of gratitude to all of the Board and Officers for their work, followed by applause
from the membership.
E. Mary Howley - Survey and Other Concerns
Mary Howley briefly discussed the results of a survey mailed to the OLS membership last April by a
group of concerned owners. Ann Conway strongly criticized the survey, declaring the tallies are
bogus because the surveys returned had incorrect return address labels.
Mary also proposed voluntary contributions of $25 from members to support an enhanced
recreational program. She encouraged people to pick up after this meeting a handout of materials
relating to both the survey and her “Bring the Fun Back to Old Lyme Shores” campaign. Mary also
discussed a long list of OLS people who have contributed so much, over the years, and should be
honored for their devoted service - Mary Rose Paulding, Marion Merritt, George Merritt, etc. all the
way up to Julia Nixon and Maggie. Rosalie Zanoni added her father, Henry Benny, to the list, noting
that in the 1950's he provided two rafts (one with a diving board) and also presented the Friday night
movies on the beach.
F. Sally Howley - OLS Photo Available
Sally Howley announced that she still has copies available of the beautiful panoramic photo of our
waterfront and anyone interested can come to her house to purchase one.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 noon.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
Old Lyme Shores
Board of Governors Meeting - Saturday, May 29, 2010, at 9:00 AM at Paul Graml’s house, 33
Brightwater Road.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, Mark Phelan, Gail Balavender, Sheila Delutrie,
Connie Gray.
Absentee: John Thomas.
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION - To approve the minutes of the 4/24/2010 Board of Governors meeting - PASSED
2. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. Account Balances
Sheila reported that we currently have $77,682.93 in checking account and $10,613.49 in savings.
B. ING Direct Account
Sheila described this on-line account which earns interest of 1.05% and has a 2-3 day turnaround
for transferring funds to checking. The Board authorized Sheila to open this account.
C. Outside Audit
Sheila reported that the audit is almost complete. One problem has been that deposits were not
itemized - no record of what comprised each deposit. Of the $112,000 due in taxes last year,
$103,000 has been paid. Sheila should initiate action to collect, following our established procedure
for dealing with delinquencies.
Sheila will have the final audit before the Annual Meeting and will distribute it to Officers and the
Board.
3. OLD BUSINESS
A. Road Repair
Paul Rowean requested four quotes for crack-sealing of upper Brightwater and Sea Spray, but has
received only one, for $4900, from Asphalt Crack and Repair, the vendor who did crack-sealing here
last year. Dino Genga recommended that we get more quotes - put $4900 in the budget for crack-
sealing and if we get a lower bid, we can put the balance in reserves. The job will be done in the fall.
MOTION - to crack-seal upper Brightwater and Sea Spray for no more than $4900 - PASSED
B. Traffic Gates
Speed bumps on Billow Road have been removed and now we need more traffic gates. Bud Smart,
who made five gates last year, can make eight gates for $1600. The Board directed that $1600 be
budgeted for eight new traffic gates.
C. Signage
One street and two stop signs were damaged last year and needed repair. Ryther-Purdy is currently
making one new stop sign. The Board approved $700 to be budgeted for signage since they may
start wearing out.
D. OLS Drainage Survey
Mark Phelan presented and distributed copies of the 5/27/2010 engineering report from Joe Wren of
Indigo Land Design, which recommends maximizing the drainage output at Sheffield Brook by
replacing the current culvert with a much larger and more efficient system (approximately 350' of 36"
- 48" reinforced concrete pipe, with tideflex valve to prevent backflow from the Sound) at a cost of
roughly $140,000. Also in this report is an alternative plan - approximately 750' of piping on Sea
Spray to
Bellaire, then along Bellaire to Saltaire and down to the existing outlet - estimated cost $150,000.
Mark suggested that our 2010-2011 operating budget include $6500 for our 1/3 of cost of
engineering study and design for drainage project (anticipating that the Town and Old Colony
provide the remaining 2/3 of this cost), plus $2500 for legal services (John Bennet - to determine
ownership and culpability regarding Sheffield Brook, meet with Town attorney, etc.).
MOTION - that our 2010-1011operating budget for drainage be $11,000, including $2500 for legal
services, $6500 for OLS share of drainage engineering study and design, and $2000 for
maintenance - PASSED
E. Annual Meeting Voting Procedure
Paul Rowean reviewed the voting card procedure - members will check in on arrival at Annual
Meeting and be issued voting cards - one set per household - to be returned at end of meeting.
F. Nominating Committee Progress
Paul Rowean reported that he is seeking nominees for three positions and so far has no
commitments.
G. Beach Person Position
There have been no applicants for this position. Paul Rowean will ask Adrian Paulding if he is
interested.
H. Updates for "Capital Plan"
Paul Rowean said his most recent report is already obsolete and an update will be issued soon.
4. NEW BUSINESS
A. 2010-2011 Budget
Sheila recommended that security costs for four days in June be included in the new year budget.
The Board approved $1000 for legal fees (McCoy) in the new year budget. These and other items
approved at this meeting will be incorporated into the 2010-2011 budget draft for Board approval.
B. Mill Rate
The Board discussed at length the mill rate (currently 2.0) and compared various proposed rates in
terms of what they would generate in surplus. OLS grand list is now higher, due to re-evaluation, so
mill rate will be correspondingly lower. The membership indicated at the last Annual Meeting that
they want $20,000 per year to go into reserves, but for this year the figure is only $16,000. The
dollar amount of delinquent taxes ($9,000) is significant and will be mentioned at the Annual Meeting.
MOTION - that the OLS mill rate for 2010-2011 be 1.7 - PASSED
C. Security and Open Roads
Guards will start on Saturday, June 26. Open road that week will be one street over from last year’s
first open road; it was mentioned that Billow was open first last year, so this year it should be Sea
Spray.
For the July 4th weekend, all streets will be open Saturday and Sunday, with a guard at each. On
Monday, there will be one guard at open road (Saltaire), and when he leaves at 5 PM, all streets will
be open.
OLS windshield stickers for owners are available from Gail Balavender.
D. Annual Meeting Format
Paul Graml summarized the general outline of the Annual Meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:30 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray, Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
Board of Governors Meeting - Saturday, April 24, 2010, at 11:00 AM at Paul Graml’s house, 33
Brightwater Road.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, Mark Phelan, Sheila Delutrie, Connie Gray.
Absentees: Gail Balavender, John Thomas.
The meeting was called to order at 11:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. OLD BUSINESS
A. Sheffield Brook Cost-sharing Plan
Paul Graml announced that the plan to share with Old Colony and the Town of Old Lyme the cost
(1/3 each) of planning a solution to the Sheffield Brook problems and seeking federal aid has
collapsed. Steve Ross, Chairman of the Town Flood and Erosion Control Board (FEC), made an
impassioned plea to the Board of Finance for support, but the Board denied the request. The cost-
sharing plan had previously been approved by the First Selectman, but was rejected by the Board of
Finance primarily because they feel the Town should not finance projects on private property,
according to Finance Chairman Andy Russell. Even after the flooding from heavy rains in March, the
Board of Finance refused to reconsider Town assistance. Paul Graml read the correspondence
between Mary Howley and State Representative Marilyn Giuliani, who believes Sea Spray Road is a
Town road and therefore a responsibility of the Town. This is a matter that needs to be approached
thoughtfully since many of the things we do such as gate off roads in the summer would not be
allowed on a Town road.
B. Off-season Board of Governors Actions
l) Cell Tower
The Board supported a proposal to erect a cell tower on Cross Lane, which proposal was defeated
at the annual Town meeting on 1/25/2010..
2) Water Rates
The Board has questioned the DPUC regarding the great disparity in rates between seasonal vs.
year round water customers and why Old Lyme Shores is charged at a higher rate, but has received
no response.
3) Town Subsidy
We requested an increase in our Town subsidy, which has remained the same at $13,500 for
thirteen years, but our request was rejected by the Board of Finance. We get back only .5% of what
the Town gets from us in taxes. This is the third year in a row that our request for an increase has
been refused. Other beach associations likewise have been refused. Paul Rowean is looking to
perhaps present a joint proposal to the Town from all the area beaches.
Mark Phelan noted that in New York there is a different tax rate structure for condominiums and
homeowner associations and suggested that we look into this.
4) Attorney Opinions
(a) South Lyme Property Owners Association
Attorney McCoy says there is no need to contribute any more money to this group to receive a
benefit from the lawsuit. Their lawsuit against the Town has been settled and the Town says
everyone affected is going to get a mailing from the Town telling them what their options are.
(b) OLS Voting and Office-holding Rights
Attorney McCoy says that members whose OLS property ownership is in the form of a trust or
partnership or some other set-up can appoint a proxy to vote for them at Association meetings.
Regardless of ownership arrangement, the rule is one vote per household. Attorney McCoy adds
that they still cannot hold office in the Association unless their names are on the deed.
C. Speed Control Survey, Update on Bump Removal, Crack-sealing Upper Roads
Paul Rowean reported that there was a 76% response to the Speed Control Survey sent out last fall,
with
65% in favor of removal of the speed bumps and 55% in favor of retaining the traffic gates. The
vendor will remove the bumps for what he charged to install them (3 bumps @$200 = $600) as soon
as possible.
The same vendor has provided estimates to crack-seal upper Sea Spray ($4,954), upper Billow
($2,288), and upper Brightwater ($4,596). Paul Rowean says he would seek an additional quote.
2. TREASURER’S REPORT
Paul Graml announced that Sheila DeLutrie (interim Treasurer) has purchased a new computer
(Microsoft Office) for all OLS business and is moving OLS accounts to Bank of America
(convenience of location both in Old Lyme and near her year-round residence) and she is looking
into opening a new account for long-term savings. She is also going to revamp (computerize) our tax-
collecting process, which up to now has been basically manual.
A. Account Balances
Sheila distributed copies of the Balance Sheet as of 4/23/2010. Current account balances are
$80,599.53 in checking and $10,613.49 in savings. She recommends that we have two bank
accounts - checking account and a related ING savings account (2-3 days funds availability) and
Paul Graml told her to move ahead on this.
B. Income Statement
Sheila distributed copies of the Income Statement, July 1, 2009 - June 30, 2010, for the Board to
study and advise her of changes to be made.
The Board requested that she purchase a printer with scanning capability, so that all contracts and
other OLS documents can be scanned into PDF files and therefore be electronically accessible.
C. Outside Audit
Sheila is having CPA Jamie Murray perform an outside audit on our books as of 12/31/09, which
involves looking at how we do things and then sampling some test cases to see if we do things the
way we say we do. The auditor has recommended a few changes regarding check-signing
procedures.
D. OLS Tax List
Paul Graml will get an OLS tax list from Town Hall for the Treasurer.
3. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Beach - Dino Genga
Beach cleaning will begin this Monday, cleaning up debris and grading the sand. Dino has provided
Sheila with information about paying the beach cleaner. He will give her a copy of the beach cleaning
contract for the PDF files.
Dino said it will cost $1253.05 to replace seven buoys lost over the winter and to clean and paint the
ones we have.
B. Drainage - Mark Phelan
1) Engineering Study
Mark said that in 2008 we got a quote of $8,000 from an engineering firm, Indigo, to design a plan to
extend the pipes into the Sound from Sheffield Brook and thereby improve drainage. But then we got
involved in pursuing a cost-sharing project with the Town and Old Colony to seek federal assistance.
Now that that plan is dead, Mark proposes that we hire Indigo to design a plan that we can pursue
alone, something we can control, to determine where to put a storm sewer, etc.
MOTION - to approve expenditure of $1500 to have Indigo do an engineering study to determine
what would be the best projects we could do to alleviate pressure on Sheffield Brook and the SW
corner of the complex- PASSED
2) Legal Advice
Mark proposed that we hire an attorney to determine ownership and culpability regarding Sheffield
Brook. We need to know who is responsible - the Town? Old Colony? He noted that Old Colony has
done things in recent years that have exacerbated the Sheffield Brook problems. Mark suggested
that legal research could provide answers to our questions and advice as to whether any of this
should be brought to the attention of the state environmental protection agency (DEP). He
recommended John Bennet, a municipal attorney from Essex with whom he has worked, and
estimates the cost to be about $3500. The Board authorized Mark to discuss these matters with
Attorney Bennet and report back to the Board via email, and then an email vote could be taken on
this proposal.
C. Security - Paul Rowean (for Gail Balavender)
We are hiring Securitas this year, to replace Ace Security. Ace’s rates were going up from $17.50 to
$19.00 per hour ($33,000 for the season) whereas Securitas will charge $16.02 per hour ($30,500
for the season). They will work from June 26 to August 29 and then come back for Labor Day
weekend. Securitas will have a supervisor patrolling the beaches in his car, overseeing his staff
operations at what Securitas anticipates will be seven beaches in this area. We will have two day
guards from 10 AM to 5 PM, two night guards from 7 PM to 1 AM Sunday through Thursday, and
from 8 PM to 2 AM Friday and Saturday.
MOTION - to authorize Gail Balavender to sign the contract with Securitas - PASSED
Paul Rowean reminded Board members to be sure to report all new and proposed expenditures (new
items from Dino and Mark, for example, from this meeting) for Capital Plan updating, and Paul Graml
reiterated the need to submit all contracts and contract changes electronically.
4. NEW BUSINESS
A. Additional Board Members/Nominating Committee
We need two additional Board members, to fill Sheila’s position (since she was appointed Treasurer)
and one other vacancy. Additionally, Dino’s and Gail’s terms on the Board expire this year, and Paul
Graml announced that he will not be running for re-election this year in accordance to the operating
rules the Board put into place year’s ago. The Nominating Committee includes Paul Rowean
(chairman) plus Dino and John Thomas.
B. Treasurer and Tax Collector Compensation
Paul Graml said that David French overpaid himself for Treasurer this year. He paid himself in full
($1200) for the Tax Collector position and completed those duties before he left. He paid himself
$1340 for Treasurer (all but $160 of the $1500 salary). Paul will seek to have David reimburse the
Association for this overpayment. Paul proposed that Sheila should be paid half of the Tax Collector
salary ($600) and half of the Treasurer salary ($750) plus the $160 David didn’t pay himself, for a
total of $910 as Treasurer. The Board approved this arrangement.
In accordance with Board policy to review salaries every three years, the Board reviewed and
determined to keep them the same - Secretary and Treasurer @$1500 and Tax Collector @$1200.
Mark Phelan would like to review these again next year.
C. Beach Person Position
The Board approved Paul Rowean’s fine job description for the position of Beach Person, a 10-week
position running from June 26 - September 6, 2010 and paying $100 per week. The only change
needed is to add "and Wednesday nights" to the first item, regarding trash barrels. Paul Graml will
post this notice on the OLS website and it will also be posted on the bulletin boards.
D. Michael Cleary Band
The Board approved hiring this group to perform Saturday evening, July 3, for $1500. This year a
signed written contract is required, to be stored electronically in our PDF files.
E. Entertainment
1) July 4th Budget
Last year we budgeted $2000 for July 4th prizes and Julia Nixon has requested $2250 for this year.
The Board felt that this expense would also not be increased at this time.
MOTION - to budget $2000 for this year’s July 4th prizes - PASSED
2) String of Pearls
In response to Julia’s inquiry, the Board decided not to hire this group to perform this summer
because of poor attendance in the past.
3) Carousel Night
The Board approved Julia’s request for $150 for this event, which provides free rides for OLS
children only, for one hour before the Carousel opens to the public. We need to know the date for
Carousel Night.
4) Talent Night
The Board approved Julia’s request to schedule this event again this summer. We also need to get
the date for this from Julia.
F. Two Requests for Use of Beach
George Finley has requested permission to use the beach in front of his house on Saturday, June
12, from 3 to 7 PM for a private party, with a tent to be installed. There seemed to be no objection to
this request from a property owner and beach rules do not apply since this is an off-season event.
Allison Duffy has requested permission to have her wedding on the beach Saturday, July 10 at 5 PM.
Since this is a non-member request, there must be a member sponsor to assume all responsibility for
the event and all beach rules must be observed since it is in-season.
Paul Graml will convey an appropriate response to each of these requests.
G. Future Meeting Dates
The OLS Annual Meeting will be on Saturday, June 19, at 10 AM at the Mile Creek School.
The next Board Meeting will be on Saturday, May 22, at 9 AM at Paul Graml’s house.
H. Paul Rowean - Additional Items
1) Tree Limb Removed
Paul reported that we paid $400 for removal of tree limb up at North Lane, per Mrs. Walther’s
request.
2) Voting Cards
Paul will have the red and green voting cards ready for use at the Annual Meeting. We will also
institute a process by which people sign in and each property will have one set of voting cards
issued for use at the meeting.
3) Mowing of Vacant Lots
Paul will contract again with the same person we had last year for mowing vacant lots at OLS.
The meeting was adjourned at l:50 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING - Saturday, October 3, 2009, at 9:00 AM at Paul Graml’s house.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Paul Rowean, Gail Balavender, Sheila DeLutrie, Jack Thomas, Dino Genga,
Connie Gray
Absentees: Mark Phelan, Dave French
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by President Paul Graml. He announced that this will be
the last Board meeting until next spring. Communications can be handled electronically in the interim,
and our goal is to have preliminary budget numbers by April. Dave French is resigning as Treasurer;
he will stay on until the end of this month and is finalizing the books. He has not indicated whether he
will continue as Tax Collector.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Board approved the minutes of the September 12, 2009 Fall Meeting.
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. North Lane Tree Removal
Paul Rowean said that it was determined that the tree overhanging the Walther property is on
Amtrak property, but Amtrak said they won’t remedy the problem. Then they called him back and
said he will hear from them within a week. Amtrak said it’s OK for us to go ahead and have it trimmed
or removed (Wilcox Tree Service quoted $400 to remove two branches and $800 to take the tree
down), but the Board wants Amtrak to do the job. Jack Thomas told Paul to stress to Amtrak that it is
their responsibility.
B. Sheffield Brook Update
Paul Graml attended an FECB (Flood and Erosion Control Board) meeting September 14, where the
bids were further analyzed. The survey portion is where the great differences occurred and the
FECB wants to get new bids with a more specific breakdown in the survey portion. First Selectman
Tim Griswold encourages continuation of the course we’re on, regarding this project, and not looking
back to some so-called "town remedy" of a few years ago.
Jack Thomas asked if we could perhaps develop our own drainage solutions, independent of
Sheffield Brook - just us, without any Old Colony or Town involvement - but Paul Graml stressed that
we’re involved in this collaborative process now with the others and we should see how this plays out
before considering alternative moves.
C. McClure Drainage Update
Paul Graml pointed out the two conflicting schools of thought on this issue: don’t pursue the project if
it is going to put any additional pressure on Sheffield Brook versus do it because the Association
voted to do it. We have a bid from Al Bond from two months ago to install an additional drain and 90
feet of perforated pipe to connect to an existing drain, for $3850. The Board discussed the issue at
length and ultimately voted to engage in the McClure project.
D. OLS Membership Criteria Update
Paul Rowean said he will be working over the winter on preparing the voting cards to be used at
Association meetings. He said he studied the OLS tax list and found only 8 - 10 properties
designated as owned by trusts, LLC’s, etc. Paul Graml is waiting for Attorney Bill McCoy’s
determination as to exactly who is entitled to vote in accordance with our charter.
E. Speed Control Update
Paul Rowean is preparing the survey to send out to the membership as discussed at the Fall
meeting. The Board discussed various questions related to this issue.
Paul Graml pointed out that 2/3 of our traffic gates are almost worn out and will need to be replaced
if we don’t have speed bumps. Speed bumps cost more initially but the traffic gates have higher
maintenance costs. The consensus was that we should try to keep the survey as clear and simple as
possible - Which do you favor - speed bumps or more gates? If you favor bumps, which kind -
permanent or moveable? Paul Rowean will work on the format of the survey, try to include cost
estimates and indicate that bumps are cheaper in the long run, and submit a draft to the Board for
approval.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
The report was abbreviated due to absence by the Treasurer.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Beach
Dino Genga said we have one more year in our contract with Harry Plaut for beach cleaning. He
suggested that Harry would probably be interested in extending the contract to additional years,
which could be advantageous to us at this time. Dino also noted that the snow fence at Sea Spray
will be installed again this fall.
B. Planning and Infrastructure
Jack Thomas suggested an inventory be taken of trees overhanging Association property. The
Board indicated that responsibility for any problems in this regard lies with the property owners, not
the Association.
C. Security
Gail Balavender has talked to Fred Callahan from Point of Woods (head of their Security) and he
feels that Federation beaches should get together and put their security needs out to bid. Paul
Rowean said that six of the nine beaches in the Federation have security services and the
Federation feels that if we collaborate on this, we might get a price reduction.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Treasurer Position
Paul Graml said the Board can appoint an interim Treasurer. Sheila DeLutrie volunteered for this
position and also expressed interest the Tax Collector position, if vacant.
B. Audit
The Board discussed having an independent audit of our books done periodically and the
consensus was that we should pursue this.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
FALL MEETING - Saturday, September 12, 2009, at 10:00 AM at Mile Creek School.
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. INTRODUCTION
Paul welcomed everyone in attendance and introduced Officers and Board members.
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. Sheffield Brook Funding Update
Paul thanked David Wheeler (Sea Spray Road) for all of his input and work on this project, which
concerns Old Lyme Shores, Old Colony, and the Town of Old Lyme. There have been several
meetings over the past year and the town plans to apply for federal aid (FEMA grant) for one or
more drainage projects. The town’s Flood and Erosion Control Board (FECB) formed a working
group, including Paul Graml as our representative and David Wheeler, which met five times this
summer to develop a scope of work and Request for Proposal (RFP), seeking bids from engineering
firms to evaluate and propose recommendations to alleviate the Sheffield Brook flooding problem.
Nine bids were submitted (ranging from $49,000 to $190,000; average approximately $75.000).
When the FECB concludes its analysis of the bids, OLS and Old Colony will decide what to do next.
Paul noted that although the Town has not committed to participating financially in this project, they
have not said they won’t either - and they are interested in seeking federal assistance.
B. Thank you
Vice President Paul Rowean expressed his gratitude to three individuals for their help this summer:
Bud Smart, who developed and constructed new traffic barriers for our roads, at a cost of $60 each
(old ones cost about $600), which come apart and are therefore easier to transport and are a big
improvement over the others.
Adrian Paulding, who took charge of the Friday night movies, moved the beach trash barrels up to
the road and back down for twice-weekly collection, and also swept and kept clean the beachfront
bench areas.
Gil Soucie, who was so helpful with budget and finance issues, prior to his departure from the Board.
C. Federation of Beaches
Paul Rowean spoke briefly about his work with the Federation and noted two key areas of concern:
Ongoing efforts to improve the effectiveness of police operation of the ATV on the beaches -
supposed to be used, if needed, between 10 PM and 3 AM, but at times disturbed beachgoers
during daytime hours.
Seeking to achieve coordination among Federation member associations in the areas of beach
security and association insurance - could be beneficial to all - Federation is working on this.
D. Proposed Voting Procedure
The Board has been looking into issue of how we vote at Association meetings. Paul Rowean has
asked other associations how they vote and finds they do just about the same as us - voting by show
of hands, which can be rather haphazard and even inaccurate. He is working on a new procedure
involving members signing in when they arrive at a meeting and being given two cards (green = yes;
red = no) to use in voting - one set of cards to each household. Paul also noted that we are still
working with counsel to try to come up with a way to assure that each household gets one vote and
where possible not excluding trusts, estates, LLC’s, etc. Our charter indicates that only "persons"
can vote, not other entities.
E. Tree Hazard
Mrs. Walther, who lives on Billow north of Route 156, has asked the Association to remove branches
from a tree on North Lane overhanging her property. Paul Rowean arranged for an Amtrak surveyor
to come out and assess which if any trees are on Amtrak property. Paul is waiting to hear back from
him.
F. Speed Bumps
Paul Rowean is seeking input regarding the speed bumps on Billow Road. He encouraged people to
convey their ideas via the OLS website (oldlymeshores@yahoo.com) or by calling him at (860)56 1-
5034 or (860)434-8842. Notices to this effect will be posted on our bulletin boards. The Board will be
sending out a questionnaire to the membership regarding speed control options giving them
guidance on how we should proceed.
G. Drainage
Mark Phelan spoke about plans of about ten years ago to undertake a major drainage project -
studies were done and plans to install drainage pipes were under consideration, but we never
followed through - it was going to be very expensive. Regarding the necessity of keeping the culvert
clear and flowing, Mark said that the town has agreed to proactively clean the inlet and outlet if a
storm is coming. The town’s public works department should be contacted if the pipe needs to be
cleaned out. Mark said that we have the catch basins cleaned once a year and that will be done this
fall.
Paul Zanoni suggested that the conduit that is under the sea wall at Sea Spray should be extended
out into the Sound, like our other conduits. Dave Woolley confirmed that the town replaced this
conduit in the past fifteen years and Paul Zanoni reiterated that it needs to be extended.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Dave French reported that right now our surplus is about $32,000. He will invest the surplus in a CD
or Money Market fund soon, to keep it separate from our regular savings. We have about $75,000 in
checking and $10,500 in savings, with approximately $28,000 in current payables. About 79% of
taxes have been collected to date.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Security
Gail Balavender, Board member in charge of security, thanked Mary Finley for assisting her when
she assumed this position. She noted that of the $32,000 budgeted for security, we have spent
$26,000 to date. We saved some money by cutting back on security the week before Labor Day.
Gail said that Ace Security did a good job and she asked that people treat them with respect. She will
meet with Ace next March to establish plans for next summer. She noted that consideration will be
given to starting security coverage Memorial Day weekend.
Comments from a few members indicated dissatisfaction with the guards this past summer. It was
suggested that we need a sign at the beach along the jetty indicating that Old Lyme Shores is
private. Paul Graml said he will check on this. Joe Keefe said he has a report prepared by an
attorney several years ago reflecting the difficulty of maintaining beach privacy because of the
requirement that public access be allowed to high tide marks and even 100-year high tide marks. Joe
said he would give Paul a copy of this report.
B. Beach
Sheila DeLutrie, who is working with Dino Genga on this committee, reported that the beach was
clean and well-maintained this summer, despite adverse weather, and the beach budget is right on
target. There were a few comments from members:
Suggestion that a "Private" sign be posted on the raft - a lot of outsiders use our raft. The Board will
determine if such a sign would give us any liability protection.
Mary Finley said that the snow fences on the beach were ineffective; Frank Farrelly, however, said
they were effective in the Sea Spray area.
Margaret Farrelly said that the fence between OLS and Old Colony is sinking; we should clean our
side and put a snow fence there to prevent the sand from building up again.
Someone suggested that we cut back on beach cleaning, saying it’s not needed every day, it takes
too long, and the machine is too noisy.
5. NEW BUSINESS
Julia Nixon announced that July 4 next year is on a Sunday. OLS parade and other July 4th activities
will be on Saturday, July 3, with Sunday as a rain date. Paul Graml thanked Julia for the great job
she did this year.
6. MEMBER ISSUES/OTHER BUSINESS
A. Condolences
George Merritt asked if OLS sends sympathy cards and was assured that we do.
B. Meeting Announcements
Mary Howley said that Association meeting announcements should be sent two weeks in advance.
Paul Graml said we will try to do better.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
Saturday, August 15th 9:00 am
Attendees: Paul Graml, Paul Rowean, Mark Phelan, Dino Genga, David French, Sheila DeLutrie,
Jack Thomas, Maura Graml (acting secretary)
Absent: Gail Balavender, Connie Gray
Guest: David Woolley
Minutes from last Board Meeting were approved and will be posted on the website
A group of residents asked if the Michael Cleary Band could perform on the beach on August 28th, 7:
30 pm at no cost to the beach association – Paul Rowean made a motion to allow this band to
perform on 8/28, Dino Genga seconded the motion and it was approved by the BOG.
Paul Graml discussed the mowing of the ball field- a new vendor has been employed . In addition,
this vendor will mow an “abandoned” lot on upper Billow Road.
David Woolley came to represent Rita Walther concerning a tree on the north side of North Lane.
Mrs. Walther would like the tree trimmed because it is threatening her house. David said there are 2
spots on the limb weakening it and there is another limb in question. It would cost $400 to remove
the 2 limbs and $850 to remove the tree. She does not want the tree removed ,just the limbs. David
seems to feel that there is a safety issue associated with these tree limbs. Dino asked if this is our
property- David seems to think it is due to measuring the roads, etc. Dino and Paul Rowean are
going to go up and look at the property, determine if it is Association property and determine if there
is an immediate threat. A motion was made to accept the decision of Dino and Paul regarding this
matter and address the tree after Labor Day if necessary.
Old Business
Overview of current drainage system- Mark Phelan
Mark showed a chart containing how and where the water drains in OLS. It was pointed out that
there is very little formal drainage within the Association. In addition, where we have drainage pipes
they largely feed over to Seaspray Rd and Sheffield Brook. Only the Sea Lane area and some
informal backyard drains actually are serviced by our existing pipes into the Sound. Mark discussed
some of the recommendations made in an engineering study from 1998.
McClure Drainage Issue Update
Mark Phelan expressed concern that fulfilling this request may be adding to the water in Sheffield
Brook. Mark went over the long term solution of piping the entire length of Brightwater Rd. and
having that drain directly into the Sound as part of the recommendation of the 1998 study.
Paul Graml explained what the McClure’s/Zanovich’s have asked is to remedy their situation now as
committed to by a vote of the Association in 1998. Paul showed the minutes from 1996 to 1998- he
said that he spoke with David Woolley and a former board member and they noted that this situation
was brought before the association and the situation was approved and the money was
appropriated. The project was started- 25 feet of pipe was laid but the vendor had a heart attack
and the project was abandoned. That same vendor suggests an additional drain be installed and
90 feet of perforated pipe connect it into an existing drain. The quoted cost is $3,850. Paul went on
to explain that the water currently flows down the street and drops into an existing drain, stating that
the water currently goes into the system above ground and therefore would not add significantly to
the burden on Sheffield Brook.
Jack Thomas did not believe that the Association decision from 1998 is binding on the current Board
and the entire situation should be revisited.
Mark Phelan made a motion to table this problem until an engineer could come out and give his
opinion. Mark is in favor of making this improvement if it is not detrimental to the Brook, Dino
seconded the motion and the BOG approved. Mark suggested that he would get an estimate for the
entire road- could it be done in stages, etc.
Sheffield Brook Update
The RFP went out and is due back on the 28th. There were no bids received by 8/13 and the Town
would not give out the quotes until after the due date.
Culvert Maintenance- Paul asked Town officials who owns this culvert since we are looking to
contract with a company to keep it clear. There was no clear answer given by the Town official.
Mark Phelan was looking into a suitable vendor to clean out the culvert and determined the town
installed that part of the pipe and the town will maintain the inflow and outflow. He said they will
proactively clean the inlet and outlet if a storm is coming. The DPW confirmed this. Mark will give
the number to call to the BOG and surrounding homeowners if the pipe needs to be cleaned out.
Overview of BOG Meeting Procedures-Paul went over Board meeting procedures for the benefit of
the new Board members
Committee Responsibilities and Interaction with Infrastructure/Finance Committee
Paul said that Jack is going to be watching the capital plan and each committee chair will need to
discuss what they need in advance and Jack can then interact with David French to set a budget.
Treasurer’s Report
Savings Account Balance $10537.40
Checking Account Balance $19,975.47
David is working on a rolling budget
Committee Reports
Dino mentioned that the raft took a beating during the storms. The ladder was banging against the
sandbar and the bottom mounts were broken off. We have been operating for 2 weeks with no
ladder and Dino thinks the ladder will be covered under warranty. Next year the raft will be moved to
deeper water.
New Business
OLS Membership Qualifications-
Paul G. outlined the results of legal review the Association Charter that occurred several years
back. There was discussion of how the various documents relate to each other and the fact that we
must operate under the rules set up in the Charter when they cover a specific topic. Paul went on to
say that the opinion of the hired counsel was that only people could be members not entities and in
the fact that owners can assign their proxy to spouses. Lastly, in every instance there is only one
vote that can be cast per household. We can and do let all residents discuss issues and share their
opinions with the Association.
The Board felt that we need a workable system to ensure that only actual members of the
Association vote in the future and that only one vote per household be cast. Paul R. will look into
how other members of The Federation of Beaches conduct their votes and bring the information to
the BOG. The Board will look at adopting a system for the Annual Meeting in June.
Gardiner Lighting Request-
The BOG denied the request to add another street light to Sea Spray Road
The Fall Meeting will be held on Saturday, September 12th at 10 am at Mile Creek School
The Meeting was adjourned at 11 am
Saturday, July 18, 2009 9:00 am
Attendees: Paul Graml, Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, Gail Balavender, Mark Phelan, Sheila DeLutrie,
Jack Thomas, David French and Maura Graml (acting Secretary)
Absent: Gil Soucie, Connie Gray
Guests: Dutch McClure and Jim Zanavich
Paul G. opened the meeting by thanking Maura Graml for agreeing to serve as Secretary for
purposes of keeping the meeting minutes.
Jim Zanavich and Dutch McClure attended to discuss the flooding issue they have between their
houses leading to a severe drainage problem. Dutch said this has been a problem for 40 to 50
years. Dutch approached the board in 1996 to look at this problem. He was told another catch
basin was to be put in between the McClure’s and the Zanavich’s. In 1997or 1998 He said the
project was started and then abandoned. He believes that Al Bond was the contractor on the
project. Dutch feels that this is a hazard and a health issue. Jim concurred that water leaches out
from the Leonardi’s property and has been flowing continually due to a natural spring and the
excessive rainfall. The Board agreed to look for old minutes that could be reviewed to see what was
committed. Dutch was asked if he felt a catch basin was the best solution or fixing the spring. Dutch
feels the spring is not the problem but rather the surface water.
Mark thought there was a drainage study done in 1998. He will look into what that report contained
concerning this property problem.
Meeting Minutes:
An error in the last Board meeting minutes regarding the mill rate was corrected and the minutes
were accepted.
The Annual meeting minutes were accepted and approved.
Treasurer’s Report:
Account balances are $17,086.48 in savings account and $5,235.97 in checking account
David is working on a “rolling budget”. Discussion was held about adding an extra 10% into the
budget for next year as advocated by many members at the Annual meeting.
Tax bills are going out next week. There are still 2 houses that owe back taxes.
Security Update:
Dan Suplinsky – the head of the security arrived at 9:50 am. Introductions were made and Dan was
commended for the efforts of the security this year. There was discussion on having the security
walk the streets at night in response to thefts in the complex. Dan mentioned that a patrol car could
be added for an additional expense. Mark made the comment that the Seaspray jetty should be
patrolled as well and that the people who broke into his son’s car came from the Old Colony side.
There was discussion over whether a curfew should be put in place for the beach front so residents
would not be disturbed late at night.
Paul G. stated that new parking stickers were ordered and would be available shortly from Mark
Bernacki.
Dan asked for a list of the board members and received a new residence list.
Committee reports:
Nothing was brought up requiring board approval.
Sheffield Brook Update:
Paul G. discussed the subcommittee he has been serving on which met every week for the last
month to develop a Request for Proposal (RFP). There was discussion of the RFP and Paul
expressed concern over escalating costs around the project. Clarification was made that this RFP
would be for preliminary survey work only and not provide any remedy for the current problems.
That would come later and possibly could be funded by FEMA or other sources. Paul stated that we
would not be obligated to move forward on the RFP after the bids come back. This was a protection
he insisted on in case a partnership could not be fashioned after responses to the RFP come back
to the Town. All board members agreed that we needed to find out what the costs actually are for
this background engineering before we can proceed. The Board voted to endorse the release of the
RFP by the Town. Paul will inform the Flood and Erosion Control Board that OLS approves of the
RFP pending review by Town attorneys.
New Committee Structure:
Discussion was held regarding the current and future structure of the Board’s committees. Each of
the 5 current committees was discussed and whether they were still needed.
David recommended that the finance committee be eliminated. The Board agreed.
Dino wanted the Beach committee to remain and agreed to be in charge of it. Sheila would like to
join the committee with the intent of leading it in the future. The Board agreed.
Mark wanted the Drainage committee to continue and will continue to head it. The Board agreed.
Gail volunteered to head up the Security committee with transitional help from Paul G.
Mark recommended that the beach establish someone who would become a liaison with the town. It
was the feeling of the Board that Paul R. should do this due to his position with the Federation of
Beaches.
Jack volunteered to head up a new Finance/Infrastructure committee with help from other committee
chairs. This new committee would serve some of the functions from each of the former committees.
Jack we develop a new approach to handle the functions he feels are most important. The Board
agreed.
There was discussion of whether a Social committee would be a good addition. This was tabled for
future discussion.
The next meeting of the BOG will be held on 8/15 at 9:00 am.
The meeting adjourned at 11:02 am.
ANNUAL MEETING - Saturday, June 20, 2009, at 10:00 AM at Mile Creek School.
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. INTRODUCTION
A. Welcome
Paul welcomed everyone and introduced Officers and Board of Governors.
B. Tribute to Deceased
Paul asked for a moment of silence in memory of those who have died in the past year:
Marie Francoeur, Robert Cleary, Henry Walther, Willliam Weidl, Nicholas Anderson, James
Anderson, Watson Dee, Thomas Sheridan, Marion Merritt, Doris Balavender, Philip Dunn, Frank
Burbank, Muriel McGovern, Robert Walsh, and Albert Stefanick.
C. Volunteers
Paul thanked volunteers who do so much for the Association, including Julia Nixon (this year: July 4
activities, starting with parade at 10 AM, Michael Cleary Band July 5, Talent Show July 18, and
Carousel Night August 1), and Maura Graml, who manages the OLS website and e-mail. We
currently need a volunteer to take care of the planters at our waterfront, and we always welcome
volunteers for service of any kind (committee work, Officer and Board positions, etc.) - please notify
any Board member or Officer of your interest in serving.
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. Long-term Capital Needs Budgeting Guide
Vice-President Paul Rowean presented and discussed his "Capital Needs Priority Grid" showing
various projects to meet current and future Association needs. He noted that three of these projects
are already done: raft replacement, crack-sealing of roads, and security shed. We are working with
Old Colony and the Town of Old Lyme on the high-priority Sheffield Brook drainage project and
ultimately hope to secure FEMA funding support.
Paul pointed out that the Association is making progress in improving its financial position. Three
years ago we had a $14,000 deficit and now we are putting away $20,000 - $30,000 per year in
Capital Reserves. It was noted that the grid is simply a planning tool, which we need as a guideline
for present and future needs, with specifics of each project to be determined as needed.
B. Speed Control
Paul Rowean reviewed his investigation of our ongoing problem with excessive speed on our roads,
resulting in the installation of speed bumps on Billow Road as a test case this summer. He said that
Billow Road residents would be polled at the end of this summer’s trial period. Various opinions were
expressed for and against speed bumps. After this summer’s experiment, the Association will decide
on this issue.
C. "Cottage Posting"
A list of beach rules was sent to the membership with the call to this meeting. Paul Graml requested
that this list be posted in each house for the benefit of all owners, guests, and renters.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Account balances as of 6/18/09 = $46,267.63 in checking and $17,086.48 in savings.
Treasurer Dave French presented his "Rolling Budget" report, reflecting a current reserve of
$17,791. He explained expenditures for crack-sealing and speed bumps. There were some
questions about security costs, how we compare to other beach associations in terms of finances,
etc.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Beach
Dino Genga reported that beach cleaning started in May, with the clearing of winter debris and
leveling of the beach. Beach cleaning is twice a week in June, daily from July 1 through Labor Day,
and once a week for the balance of September.
The new raft is going in tomorrow or the next day. This raft is easily dismantled for winter storage
and the ladder is retractable.
B. Security
Paul Graml announced that Mary Finley is not continuing on the Board and thanked her for her
dedicated service in the past three years; the membership echoed this appreciation with applause.
Ace Security is holding to the same hourly rate as last year, and their base of operations will be
down at our Gorton Avenue Ext. ballfield property. They will be giving more attention than in the past
to upper roads, and at the beach they will be rotating from bench to bench, rather than being in the
same place every day.
Gate schedule commences June 27, with Saltaire open and other streets closed. July 3 - July 5, all
four streets will be open, with a guard at each entrance. July 6 - July 12, Brightwater will be the open
street, Billow will be open starting July 13, then Sea Spray July 20, and the rotation continues,
changing streets on Saturdays, until Labor Day weekend.
MOTION - Julia Nixon made a motion to have two streets open, not all four, over the July 4th
weekend - DEFEATED
Tina Dileo suggested that we close gates earlier, as other beaches do, rather than waiting until the
end of June.
Barbara Beal mentioned volleyball activity bothering people at the Billow end of the beach. Paul
Graml said he would emphasize rules enforcement in this area, when he meets with Security
personnel next Friday to discuss procedures.
Daytime guards hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM.
C. Drainage
Paul Graml spoke for Mark Phelan, Drainage Committe chairman. He reminded residents of the
importance of keeping clear the drainage ditches which flow behind properties on all streets from the
highway down to the Sound. All catch basins will be cleaned, as is done annually in conjunction with
the town.
We are working with Old Colony and the town to deal with Sheffield Brook flooding problems. Paul
said we are near the top of the town’s list of five or six projects for which the town hopes to get FEMA
funding.
Bill Randazzo commented that the possibility of help from FEMA was "wishful thinking" and strongly
suggested that we move ahead with Old Colony to solve the problem, without waiting for government
assistance. Paul explained that Old Colony had specifically expressed no interest in fixing the
problem without outside financing.
D. Infrastructure
Paul Graml spoke for Bill Hardy, Infrastructure Committee chairman, who is leaving the Board. He
thanked Bill for all of his efforts in the past years. Infrastructure improvements include:
crack-sealing of the roads, which will be completed (a few sections not done) in the fall.
six new traffic barrier gates being built. Paul thanked Bud Smart for working on this.
storage shed - to be installed next week on basketball court at our Gorton Avenue Ext. property.
electrical upgrade at beach end of Brightwater Road (last year)
Projects deemed too expensive to consider at this time are additional street lights, new benches at
the waterfront, and new entrance gates.
Dave Woolley suggested that the Board look into a problem on upper Billow Road - a tree on
Association property is hanging over a resident’s house and needs attention.
Bill Gardiner recommended that we reconsider additional street lights - the streets are very dark.
Ann Moriarty noted that in the past, residents were encouraged to keep their post lights on to
improve illumination on our roads.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. 2009-2010 Proposed Budget
Gil Soucie presented the proposed 2009-2010 budget, noting a reduction in entertainment:
$2,000 for July 4th prizes, which is a $775 reduction from last year
No String of Pearls concert this year
The mill rate of 2.00 is being retained. He predicted that we should finish the 2009-2010 fiscal year
with more than $80,000 in capital reserves ($23,181 from this proposed budget plus $63,354 from
the current fiscal year).
Bob Walsh asked why there was no money in this proposed budget for crack-sealing of the upper
roads and suggested that we need more in capital reserves. Greg Symon agreed with Bob Walsh
that we need more in capital reserves.
A discussion was held to guage the membership’s desire to raise the mill rate and contribute
additional funds to the surplus. The majority of members in attendance opposed such an increase.
MOTION - to approve the 2009-2010 Budget as presented - PASSED
B. Job Opening
Paul Graml announced a job opening for the summer - running the movies on the beach, moving
trash barrels on the beach up for trash collection and then back down, and miscellaneous other
duties, paying $800 for the season. The job description is posted on our bulletin boards and Paul
encouraged those interested to apply. T.C. Nixon was recognized for the fine job he did in
performing these functions in the past
C. Election of Officers and Board Members
Nominating Committee Chairman Paul Rowean (others on committee = Sheila DeLutrie & Bill Hardy)
presented the Board-approved slate of nominations:
Board of Governors -
Gil Soucie (3-year term)
John Thomas (3-year term)
Gail Balavender (1-year term, replacing Bill Hardy)
Officers - 1-year terms - Paul Graml - President; Paul Rowean - Vice-President; Dave French -
Treasurer;
Connie Gray - Secretary
There were no nominations from the floor.
MOTION - to approve the slate as presented by the Nominating Committee - PASSED
Ann Moriarty asked whether the Nominating Committee ever could include non-Board members.
6. MEMBER ISSUES/OTHER ISSUES
A. Volleyball Net
MOTION - Anne Conway made a motion that the volleyball net be removed from the beach for safety
reasons - PASSED
B. Police Presence on Beach
Members were informed that the schedule of the ATV traveling on OLS beach was entirely at the
discretion of the police. Dave Woolley suggested that any comments or complaints about it should
be directed to the First Selectman, not to the police.
C. OLS Stickers
Paul Graml advised residents that stickers will be available from Security starting next week.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:10 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray, Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
Board of Governors Meeting - Saturday, May 30, 2009, at 9:30 AM at Paul Rowean’s house, 29
Billow Road.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, Mark Phelan, Mary Finley, Sheila Delutrie, Dave
French, and Connie Gray.
Absentees: Gil Soucie, Bill Hardy.
The meeting was called to order at 9:30 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
MOTION - to approve the minutes of the 4/25/09 Board meeting - PASSED.
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. Road Projects
1) Crack-seal and speed bumps
Paul Rowean reviewed the project and noted that the contractor missed a few cracks, so $2,000 of
the contract price is being held until he completes the job. Also, roads north of Route 156 were
inadvertently omitted, so the contractor estimates it will cost about $5,000 (one skid) to do those
(excluding Canty and Billow, which are too crumbly to crack-seal, and Saltaire, which doesn’t need
it). Paul will check to see if we had other bids for the job; he is to tell the contractor "no more than
one skid ($5,000) and Mark Phelan said Paul should get a second bid as well.
2) Speed gates
Bud Smart (an owner here) has designed an improved traffic gate that costs only $60 - $75 for
materials and takes about five hours to produce. He has offered to head up this project. We need at
least six more gates; currently we have three on each road, and some are in poor shape.
MOTION - to proceed with this project - determine the number of gates needed, purchase materials,
and have Bud Smart be in charge of construction - PASSED
B. Sheffield Brook Update
What we are waiting for is a scope of work for this project to deal with flooding issues, which is being
done by two or three engineering firms. Then, when we have that, we will sit down with Old Colony
and the Town of Old Lyme to decide who will pay what and other details. Steve Ross, chairman of
the town’s Erosion Control Board, is very committed to getting something done. Our ultimate goal is
to get a FEMA grant to pay for this project.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Dave French reported that we have about $50,000 in checking and $17,077.35 in savings. $15,000
will be moved over for the crack-sealing of the roads. Paul Graml would like David’s report to include
more detail, for Board usage; we need account totals, and savings, checking and CD totals should
be shown at the bottom.
Next tax bills sent out will include statement of policy on late taxes (approved at 4/25/09 Board
meeting).
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Security
1) Ace Security Contract
Ace has held the line and we can expect that this year’s security expenditures will be the same as
last year. Security will begin the week before July 1. Mary Finley has reviewed the contract, made a
few corrections, and will give it to Paul Graml for signature. She also noted the need for security on
Memorial Day, which the Board tabled for now (possible consideration for next year).
2) Security Shed and Porta-potty
Paul Graml reported that Ann Brown, Town Zoning Officer, has not approved installation of a small
shed and porta-potty, for security use, at our Gorton Avenue Extension property, which she
describes as a "park/recreation area." Paul has requested that this issue be on the agenda for the
town zoning meeting June 8.
3) Group Plans for Security and Insurance
Paul Rowean asked if we would be interested in a proposed Federation of Beaches group security
plan, and a similar collaboration for insurance. Group rates might reduce our costs by 10% or so.
The Board expressed interest in these Federation proposals.
B. Beach
Dino Genga reported that swim lines are going in the water this Monday, and other beach amenities
will follow shortly (bike racks, new raft, signage, etc.).
C. Drainage
Mark Phelan asked that the same figure ($7,000) be kept in the budget for drainage.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Beach Job
Last year T.C. Nixon was hired to move barrels up from the beach for trash collection and back down
on the beach after collection, open the streets for trash collection and also to run the beach movies
program. The Board discussed at length a job description for this position, how much it should pay,
and also the possibility of opening it up to other applicants.
MOTION - to keep this job as it was last year (moving trash barrels up and down, opening the road
gates for the trash and being in charge of movies) plus sweeping and cleaning the waterfront bench
area at each street, paying $800 for ten weeks - PASSED
Paul Rowean will create and post the job description.
B. Budget Requests
Paul Graml reviewed Bill Hardy’s infrastructure report. The Board said no to new benches, additional
street lighting, and new entrance gates. The Board approved purchase of security storage shed
(around $3,000) and porta-potty service ($106 weekly).
C. Mill Rate
The Board discussed possible mill rates and no one was in favor of raising taxes. Paul Graml asked
Dave French to apply last year’s mill rate (2.0) to proposed 2009-10 budget expenses and prepare a
sample budget for the BOG to vote on.
6. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Beach Rules
MOTION - to send out with the Call to Annual Meeting mailing the one-page list of Beach Rules and
also have copies available for distribution at the Annual Meeting - PASSED
B. Soucie Property
Paul Graml reviewed the Soucie request that the Association convey property in front of their house
(8 - 9' strip abutting the road) to the owner, to facilitate zoning approval of their proposal to build a
garage. Mark Phelan compared this to his situation a few years ago. Paul warned against setting
precedents for future requests of this nature and instead recommended that we develop a policy to
be applied in every case, to avoid piecemeal decisions. He suggested that Gil Soucie ask his
attorney to draw up a document for their request, to be considered by a Board committee (to include
Mark Phelan and one other - possibly Board-nominee John Thomas, who is an attorney) and then by
the entire Board, with the ultimate goal of arriving at a policy that would apply to all such requests.
C. Beach Issues
Mary Finley noted two situations that upset people on the beach:
Memorial Day - police/Federation ATV on the beach, weaving in and out among beachgoers
Volleyball activity disturbing beachgoers at Billow end of beach
The Board agreed to include volleyball in the "hazardous activities not permitted until after 5 PM" on
the Beach Rules list.
D. To Be Included in Mailing:
Call to Annual Meeting and Agenda
Budget
Beach Rules
The meeting was adjourned at 11:40 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
Board of Governors Meeting - Saturday, April 25, 2009, at 1:00 PM at Paul Graml’s house, 33
Brightwater Road.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Paul Rowean, Dino Genga, Mark Phelan, Gil Soucie, Mary Finley, Sheila
Delutrie, David French, Connie Gray
Absentee: Bill Hardy
The meeting was called to order at 1:00 PM by President Paul Graml.
1. FEDERATION OF BEACHES (Scott Boulanger)
Paul introduced Scott Boulanger, new president of the Federation of Beaches (FOB), who
summarized the goals and agenda of the Federation. FOB Board of Directors and specific
assignments are: Scott Boulanger - President (liaison with Town of Old Lyme); Richard Sagan - Vice
President (member beach affairs); Gil Soucie - Treasurer; Butch Lagano - Secretary; David Griswold
- Security/Ordinances Director; Fred Callahan - Social Director; Paul Rowean - Communications
Director. This newly organized group met this morning and encourages member beaches to send
representatives to future FOB meetings (next scheduled meeting Saturday, 8/29/09).
FOB agenda highlights include:
single-source security for member beaches by end of this summer
improved publicity via The Day and Lymeline.com
increased use of ATV for beach security - funded by Town, managed by FOB
joint beach ordinances - agreeable to and supported by all beaches and police
participation of various beach representatives on FOB committees
improved communication with Town - FOB Board met with Selectmen and hope for future quarterly
meetings (Selectmen want communication from one voice - FOB - for all beaches)
town permit required for serving alcohol at beach functions
2. OLD BUSINESS
A. Speed Control Study Report and Recommendations
Paul Rowean distributed and discussed his study of speed control measures and recommendations.
He surveyed all the area beaches as to what they do to control speeding and spoke with local law
enforcement. They all agreed that speed bumps were the only solution that works. A proposal that
we crack-seal our roads and install three permanent speed bumps on Billow Road was discussed. It
was pointed out that several speed bumps at Old Colony have been damaged by snow plows, and
also noted that they are ineffective if spaced too far apart. The proposed plan is to insert speed
bumps into the road, not just place on top, to avoid damage. It was noted that speed bumps can be
geared to speed limits, so ideally, if ours were geared to 15 mph, drivers observing our speed limit
would not damage their vehicles. A survey mechanism will be developed to evaluate the
effectiveness of the bumps at the end of the season.
MOTION - to crack-seal all four streets and install three speed bumps on Billow Road - PASSED
B. Sheffield Brook Update
Mark Phelan said that Harry Plaut has been replaced as president at Old Colony and noted that Old
Colony never made any commitment to contribute $10,000 to the Sheffield Brook project, as we had
been led to believe. Paul Graml added that according to Attorney McCoy, it is highly unlikely that Old
Lyme Shores owns any part of Sheffield Brook and thus our best bet is to work with Old Colony and
the Town to get FEMA funds for the project. Doug Whalen of Old Colony is in agreement on this.
Mark Phelan added that he is very impressed with the chairman of the Town Erosion Control Board.
C. Capital Plan Distribution
Paul Rowean distributed copies of his long-term capital needs report (Capital Needs Priority Grid) for
Board consideration. This plan should be used by Board members as a reference of what our
Association needs are as we discuss all budget expenses. Paul Graml thanked him for this useful
tool.
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. Account Balances
David French reported current balances of approximately $82,000 ($64,894.98 in checking,
$17,477.35 in savings, and $35.34 interest) and estimated current operating needs of $28,000 and
a total of $41,000 to the end of June. Paul Graml would like capital funds separated from the
checking account and David suggested a 3-month $20,000 CD for this purpose.
B. Unpaid Taxes
The Board discussed procedures for dealing with unpaid taxes. Taxes are late after September 1,
and currently there are five owners in arrears. The Town charges $25 to place a lien on a property.
MOTION - that an owner in arrears be notified in mid-November that if taxes are unpaid by December
31, a lien will be placed on the property - PASSED
Amendment to Motion - that this motion be retroactive to December, 2008 - Passed
C. Budget Issues
1) Paul Graml reminded Board that all budget item requests must be in for the next Board meeting.
The proposed budget must be sent to owners along with the call to the Annual Meeting.
2) Mark Phelan asked that no additional lighting be included in the budget - it encourages loitering.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Drainage (Mark Phelan)
Already covered under Old Business (#2-B above).
B. Beach (Dino Genga)
Harry Plaut’s contract continues for the next two years. $15,000 per year covers beach cleaning,
storage of equipment, installation and removal of swim lines, buoys, and raft, etc. Beach cleaning will
commence on May 3, and according to Dino there should be no need for bull-dozing the beach; the
fencing worked and whatever leveling is needed should be done by Harry Plaut. Paul Graml asked
Dino to arrange for moving of the sand on either side of the jetty near Old Colony - that jetty must be
kept very visible. Paul said this probably is a job for Al Bond, who may be needed for some other
beach work as well.
C. Infrastructure (Bill Hardy)
Bill Hardy’s report, e-mailed to the Board on 4/21/09, is a very comprehensive update. Paul Graml
requested that additional street lighting, referred to in the report, be tabled for now.
D. Security
1) Ace Security Contract
Mary Finley is not seeking another term on the Board and therefore will not be in charge of security.
Paul Graml met with David Vanasse, head of Ace Security, who has agreed to provide the same
service this summer for the same price as last year.
MOTION - to contract with Ace Security for the same level of service as last year at the same rate
($17.50/hour) - PASSED
2) Security Base of Operations
Paul Graml has requested permission from Ann Brown, Town Zoning Officer, to install a small shed
(10' x 12') and porta-potty on the old basketball court at our Gorton Avenue Extension property. The
shed would provide for storage of security’s supplies (bottled water, etc.) and also for off-season
storage of our beach equipment (raft, swim lines, etc.).
3) Additional Security Needs
Paul is asking Bill Hardy to equip each bench at the beach with an umbrella and cooler for security
use.
4) Crowd Control in Jetty Area
Mark Phelan reiterated the need to deal with the problem of noisy crowds congregating on the beach
in front of his house late at night. Paul Graml said OLS ownership extends more than 25 feet west of
the jetty, and he suggested that he and Mark meet with Doug Whalen of Old Colony and the new Old
Colony owner of the waterfront property in this area, to discuss how to disperse the crowds, what to
do about the Old Colony spotlight that aggravates the situation, and related issues.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Entertainment Budget
(1) Michael Cleary Band
A deposit is needed for the Michael Cleary Band, scheduled for Sunday, July 5, @$1500.
MOTION - that we pay the required deposit for the Michael Cleary concert - PASSED
(2) String of Pearls Concert
Julia Nixon has requested funding for a String of Pearls concert on August 8 ($550). The Board
decided not to have a String of Pearls concert this year because of falling attendance.
(3) July 4th
Last year’s cost was about $3000 for what is a free event. The Board discussed the issues involved -
are prizes for everyone and for every event necessary? When last year’s expenses were reviewed,
the consensus of the Board was that $2000 is an appropriate amount for this year, to provide a
remembrance for all participants and refreshments.
B. Meetings
Annual Meeting will be Saturday, June 20, at 10:00 AM at Mile Creek School.
Board meetings will be Saturday, May 16 and Saturday, June 6, at 9:30 AM at Paul Graml’s house.
( NOTE: ON 5/1/09, PAUL GRAML PROPOSED JUST ONE BOARD MEETING ON 5/30/09 AT 9:30
AM INSTEAD OF THESE TWO MEETINGS)
C. Property Conveyance Request
Gil Soucie requested that the Board, at its next meeting, deal with his request that the Association
convey to his wife, Joyce (property owner) an 8' strip fronting their property on Saltaire, in order to
meet the additional 90 square foot requirement for zoning approval of their proposal for garage
construction.
D. Sea Spray Jetty
Off-season repairs were made to the jetty to maintain its integrity and help with sand erosion issues.
E. Nominating Committee (Paul Rowean, Bill Hardy, and Sheila Delutrie)
Paul Rowean, Chairman, announced that nominees for three-year Board positions are Gil Soucie
(another term) and John Thomas (29 Sea Spray). Nominees for one-year Officer positions are:
President - Paul Graml; Vice President - Paul Rowean; Secretary - Connie Gray; and Treasurer -
David French.
MOTION - to accept this slate as presented by the Nominating Committee - PASSED
The meeting was adjourned at 3:20 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
FALL MEETING - Saturday, September 6, 2008, at 10:00 AM, at Mile Creek School.
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. RESIDENT STATE TROOPER INTRODUCTION TO MEMBERSHIP
Trooper Olsen spoke briefly about police operations in Old Lyme. Police patrol private beach
associations as well as public areas. They are working with the Federation of Beaches to improve
service in the beach areas. Trooper Olsen encouraged residents to call police if there is a problem
and they will come if they determine that police action is appropriate. He mentioned another officer,
Trooper O’Donnell, who has been here in Old Lyme for twenty years, and stressed their goal to
serve the people of Old Lyme. Paul Graml thanked Trooper Olson and encouraged members to get
to know our police.
2. GUEST SPEAKERS ON HIGH SCHOOL BUDGET REFERENDUM
Paul Graml introduced guest speakers who discussed the proposed high school building and
renovation project. A $54 million proposal was defeated in May, 2007, and many people and
committees have worked very hard since then to come up with a $48 million proposal which the
school board has approved. A referendum is scheduled for October 14.
A. Marilyn Ossman, co-chairman of an ad hoc committee of about 50 people working on this project,
encouraged voters to attend an informational hearing at 7:30 PM on Monday, September 8, at the
middle school or at 7:30 PM on Tuesday, September 9, at the Lyme Consolidated School. She also
encouraged out-of-town residents to vote by absentee ballot on this important issue.
B. Charlie Delinks, another ad hoc committee member and also president of the local Chamber of
Commerce, reviewed the history of the issue, noting that the current proposal encompasses a lot
that was to have been covered in the $34 million bond project of eight years ago and was never
done.
C. George James, another committee member and a 40-year Old Lyme resident, questioned the
need for spending $48 million when it is projected that the school population is decreasing (407
students in the high school ten years from now). He also pointed out the very high per-pupil
spending in this school district: $18,539, as compared to $11,868 in East Lyme and $13,595 in
Clinton. He referred the audience to the committee’s website - getthefacts.us - for further details
pertaining to this project.
D. Margaret Jane Delluzzo, another committee member, noted that if the current $48 million proposal
is approved, Old Lyme will be almost totally maxed out in terms of its bond rating and ineligible for
any further borrowing. She also questioned the town’s estimate of tax impact of an average $132 per
year (23 years) per $100,000 assessed valuation of property. She thinks the figure is closer to $300
per year, that the total payback of the bond will exceed $88 million, and that since state
reimbursement is an unknown, we should view this strictly as a $48 million Lyme/Old Lyme debt.
E. Chris Carter, fifth guest speaker, is the lone member of the Board of Education who voted against
the $48 million proposal, for three reasons:
$48 million is too much to spend for 407 students.
$381 cost per square foot is much too high.
The project should cost no more than $30 - $35 million.
F. Comment by Dave Woolley
Dave praised the guest speakers here today and all who have worked so long and hard on this
issue. He pointed out that this $48 million proposal includes both renovation and new construction
components and incorporates the geo-thermal method of heating and air conditioning. Dave thinks a
state grant of approximately $20 million is going to be available, and he reminded us that school
costs are shared by Old Lyme (80%) and Lyme (20%).
The Federation of Beaches will be sending out application and affidavit forms for absentee voting to
all beach association residents.
3. OLD BUSINESS
A. South Lyme Property Owners’ Lawsuit Update
Paul Graml reported that this issue has been resolved. According to Marylin Clarke, town attorney,
this case has been reported as settled to the judge. Paul said the bottom line is that there will be a
lifting of the seasonal label from deeds filed in Town Hall. However, this in no way automatically
allows year-round occupancy in the beach areas; permission for this involves a lengthy process of
obtaining all kinds of approvals and permits from the town.
B. New Board Member and Vice President
Paul Graml introduced Paul Rowean, Vice President, and Sheila DeLutrie, Board member, both of
whom will be serving for the remainder of this fiscal year. He also introduced other officers and Board
members in attendance.
C. Recreation
Julia Nixon reported that the July 4th celebration was very successful. Participation was greater than
ever - 450 T-shirts and 400 ice creams were distributed; 300 children and adults participated in the
races, and a total of approximately 1000 prizes were distributed. Julia thanked by name the many
children and adults who assisted her in making the day so special.
Julia also announced plans for next summer:
Saturday, July 4 - Fourth of July celebration
Sunday, July 5 - Michael Cleary Band (tentative date)
Saturday, July 18 - Old Lyme Shores Talent Show
Saturday, August 1 - Old Lyme Shores night at the Carousel, 6 - 6:45 PM
Saturday, August 8 - String of Pearls (tentative date)
Members in attendance applauded Julia for her tremendous efforts and accomplishments in behalf of
the Association.
4. TREASURER’S REPORT
Treasurer David French reported that as of 9/6/08, $55,000 of our $98,000 budget has been spent,
with $10,000 in current invoices coming in. Taxes paid = $66,000 (of $112,000 total) and we
currently have $5,055 in savings and $45,411 in the checking account.
Someone requested that members get budget information in writing before meetings, so they can
analyze the information and bring their questions, if they have any, to the meeting. Paul Graml said
every effort would be made to send out the budget with the call to the meeting next spring.
5. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Grounds
Paul Graml summarized Grounds Committee Chairman Bill Hardy’s report. Projects completed this
year include acquisition of new movie equipment, upgrading of electrical power at beachfront, new
signage for beach and roads, refurbishment of benches at beachfront, boat ramp repairs, and
installation of volleyball court. Projects currently in the planning stage include:
additional street lights on CL & P poles
crack sealing repairs to damaged roadways
repair of damaged gate at Brightwater and possible improvements/upgrades to other gates
Member questions and comments:
l) Tom Yourell asked if we are going to have solar-powered street lights. Paul Graml said we should
look into this.
2) Maryellen Phelan asked who will decide where additional street lighting is to be installed. Paul
Graml said we are seeking CL & P advice on this, looking first at the long stretches where there is
currently no lighting. It was noted that nearby residents should be notified when new lighting
locations are determined.
3) Tina Deleo suggested the sign at entrance to the open street be raised, for better visibility.
4) In response to the observation that Sea Spray is "always" the first open road of the season, Paul
Graml said we will start with Saltaire next year.
B. Security
Paul Graml spoke for Mary Finley, Security Chairman, noting that we will be going into our third year
with Ace Security and things seem to be going very well - they like us and seem to have a good
feeling about Old Lyme Shores. Thanks were conveyed to T.C. Nixon for his assistance to Security,
and it was noted that about a third more cars were turned away at the gate this year. There were
some member complaints about guards who just sit and do nothing when there is a need for action;
for example, coolers and picnics on the flat rocks, ball playing on the beach wall and on the beach,
and other infractions of the rules, with no action on the part of a nearby guard. Norman Yester
suggested that guards should patrol our roads on mountain bikes, in addition to just covering the
waterfront.
Paul Graml said that there will be Board review of guard performance and accountability. He also
reminded members that we have not had a Beach Manager for two or three years and encouraged
interested persons to apply for this position.
C. Beach
Dino Genga observed that we enjoyed excellent beach conditions this summer - we were blessed
with great weather and a beautifully groomed beach. Location of beach fencing this winter will be
modified to improve effectiveness. In response to an inquiry, Dino noted that the appointed time for
beach cleaning is 7:00 - 9:00 AM, extending to 9:30 AM at the very latest, only if absolutely
necessary.
D. Drainage
Mark Phelan reported that the Association had budgeted money both in Operating and in its Capital
Budget for 2008. The Operating funds were to maintain the pipes and catch basins. This
maintenance now covers an inspection and opening of all pipe discharges into the Sound prior to
any forecast storm. The Capital Budget included money for the engineering design to increase the
discharge capacity of Sheffield Brook.
We have received one quote for the engineering work and the money budgeted is sufficient for the
total engineering cost. Mark reported that the efforts to have the Town of Old Lyme, or FEMA pay for
the engineering seemed dim. We are now at the point where we are prepared to go forward with the
engineering in consort with Old Colony with each Association paying 50% of the engineering cost.
E. Capital Planning
Paul Rowean continues to work on assessing and prioritizing long-term capital needs of the
Association, projects such as roads and drainage that exceed our everyday operational expenses.
Paul Graml said that this is an ongoing process of great concern to the Board.
Other matters of concern mentioned by Paul Rowean (now Vice President) included:
Federation of Beaches - Paul and Gil Soucie now are members of the Federation’s Board of
Directors.
Involvement of OLS membership - Paul encouraged members to work on Board committees - actively
participate rather than just wait for Association meetings to raise questions and complain.
Nominating Committee - contact the Committee (Paul is chairman) if you or anyone you know wants
to hold office or join the Board.
6. NEW BUSINESS
A. "Cottage Posting"
Paul Graml encouraged posting in all OLS homes the notice sent out with the call to this meeting,
summarizing Association beach rules and procedures - basic information for all residents, guests,
and renters.
B. Speeding on Association Roadways
Paul called attention to the ongoing problem of speeding on our roads. He noted that the speed
monitor provided by local police proved to be very helpful, but we have only limited use of this device
(shared with other beach associations).
Tina Deleo raised the issue of vehicles parked near the traffic barriers - cars and landscapers’ big
trucks - this creates problems that should be eliminated by enforcement of the "no parking on OLS
roads" rule.
7. MEMBER ISSUES/OTHER BUSINESS
A. Assessment Appeal
Julia Nixon reiterated her request that the Association educate members, perhaps via a Power Point
presentation, on the assessment appeal process so that people can effectively react when the next
revaluation takes place.
B. High School Budget Referendum
Dave Woolley pointed out that the speakers here today represent the opposition faction. Building
costs continue to rise and Dave feels we shouldn’t wait any longer to embark on this project.
C. Bill Randazzo’s Concerns
Bill Randazzo thanked the officers and Board for their hard work, and then suggested the following:
1) Security - needs to be revamped - specifically, night guards should patrol the streets on bicycles,
not just sit on a bench at the waterfront.
2) Volleyball - as well as frisbee, football, etc. - these beach activities should be allowed all day long,
not just after 6 PM, as long as no one is getting hurt. Rosalie Zanoni responded that we need to be
concerned that someone might get hurt.
3) Golf carts - Bill pointed out that there have been no golf cart accidents on our roads this year, and
our roads are private roads, so the law doesn’t apply here. He suggested the following requirements:
register carts with OLS, mandatory lights if driven after dark, same rules as for cars, and licensed
drivers only.
Paul Graml responded that operation of golf carts is illegal on state and town roads and therefore
illegal at Old Lyme Shores. Our Charter (section 17) says that town rule supersedes Association
rule. We are a chartered beach association, a municipality, and therefore are subject to state and
local laws. Moreover, we are exposed to tremendous liability, according to our attorney, if we have
golf carts here.
A motion to adjourn this meeting was passed, at 12:05 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLSBA Board of Governor’s Meeting
Saturday, August 23, 2008
9:00 am
Present: Paul Graml, Maura Graml, Mary Finley, Bill Hardy, Dino Genga, David French, Paul
Rowean, Gil Soucie
Absent: Mark Phelan, Connie Grey
Approval of Minutes from Last Meeting
Approved
Treasurer’s Report
Account Balances
Checking $36,621.34
Savings $5055.29
Pending Deposit of $27,000 for 8/23/08
Julia Nixon requested a $1500 increase in her Fourth of July prize budget. The BOG disagreed and
a motion was made to hold her to the same budget as she had in 2008 and the amount of any
overspending for 2008 will be taken out of the 2009 budget. This motion was passed.
SLPO Lawsuit Update
Paul Graml said that our attorney spoke with Atty Marilyn Clark-the attorney for the Town of Old
Lyme- and reported the lawsuit settled to the judge. This means that SLPO and the Town have an
agreement to remove the arbitrary seasonal use designation from shoreline homes. The attorney
does not feel anyone is required to give additional funds to SLPO but, they can contribute to help
defray the cost of the suit.
Nominating Subcommittee
Dino Genga nominated Sheila Delutrie for the remainder of Paul Rowean’s board term and Paul
Rowean for Vice President for the remainder of a one year term. The motion was seconded and
passed.
Police Beach Patrols
Paul Graml stated that he was lead to believe that OLS could put in their own rules for patrol at the
Federation of Beaches. He was later told by the Police that this would not be the case. Trooper
Olsen stated that this patrol would be random and unscheduled. He said that the police would
enforce the ordinances of the Town. OLS has no real input into the particulars of this patrol. Paul
Rowean stated the Trooper Olsen would like to come to the Federation meeting and have a
debriefing over what went wrong and what went right.
Speed Control Option Update
Paul Rowean did some investigative work into speed control options. What are other beaches doing,
what the police have to say, etc? It was suggested that this research continue over the winter and
some solutions be discussed for the summer of 2009.
Golf Cart Opinion
Our attorney suggests that we periodically remind Association members that the use of these
vehicles on our roads is illegal and can open the Association up to liability. It was stated that there
are very few golf carts, but the entire community will be impacted financially if there is an incident.
We are waiting on a response from the attorney to the draft letter. A letter should go out every two
years to show documentation that we do not approve of these carts and to make sure that new
residents understand they are not legal. Trooper Olsen suggested that he could enter the
Association and ticket these vehicles if he felt the need because it is a clear violation of State Law It
was suggested that this letter be sent out in the Fall and the Spring. A motion was made that the
letter be accepted and sent out in both the Fall and the Spring. It was seconded and passed.
Ball Field Title Search
The Board previously requested that our attorney be asked for information on how long the title
research process would take and how much it would cost. He did not say how long this process
would take- perhaps 2 years or so. The property would need to be researched and it would need to
be determined if we could sell it. It would be relatively inexpensive to do this. Approx. $300-$400.
Paul Graml asked if this should be pursued and employ McCoy to do this. A motion to pursue this
was made, seconded and passed.
Chapel Parking Lot
Paul Graml mentioned the letter that was sent to Tim Griswold concerning the use of this parcel for
extra beach parking. Griswold sent a letter back saying the town is not in favor of using this for
beach parking or paid parking. There is a vote scheduled for Tuesday, August 26th on this issue.
Paul Graml mentioned calling Dave Woolley due to his position on the Board of Finance to inform
him that OLS is in favor of the sale of this land. Paul will also post a notice on the bulletin boards
informing the members of this meeting.
Committeee Reports
Capitol Projects
Paul Rowean- Is developing criteria to prioritize future capital projects. Sample criteria were
circulated with the goal of finalizing the criteria this Fall.
Beach Maintenance
Dino Genga- The barriers are coming out Labor Day weekend, the swim lines will stay in for an extra
two weeks and the snow fence will go in in the Fall.
Security
Mary Finley- Reported that the guards would remind visitors of the 15 mph speed limit when they
enter our roads.
Grounds
Bill Hardy- Has approached CL & P regarding additional lighting on the long stretches of each road.
He is working on getting a proposal for this project.
There is a clock ready to be hung at the Brightwater bench.
He has a proposal for repairing the cracks- 23K for doing one road at a time and 17K if all would be
done at once. Bill is waiting for 3 more proposals. This would have to be done in October before the
winter if the Board would like to have it done.
New Business
The Board discussed the need for constant reminders on the 15 mph speed limit and the priority
beach rules. Paul Graml prepared a one page listing of this information for the Board to review. It
was decided that this one page document should be distributed in the call to the Fall meeting, mailed
with the 2009 tax bill and given out as a handout at the Annual meeting. The intention of this sheet is
to serve as a reminder and that could be posted in cottages. This may be helpful for people that
rent their cottages.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:05 am.
Old Lyme Shores Beach Association
Board of Governors Meeting- Saturday, July 26, 2008, at 9:00 AM at Paul Graml’s house, 33
Brightwater Road
Attendees: Paul Graml. Maura Graml, Mary Finley, Gil Soucie, Bill Hardy, Mark Phelan, Paul
Rowean, David French
Absentee: Dino Genga
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by President Paul Graml
1. Approval of Minutes From Last Meeting
Done via email
2. Treasurer’s Report and Related Items
Updated Budget- Paul Graml asked that a rolling budget be prepared and emailed to the BOG prior
to upcoming meetings.
Account Balances:
Checking Account Balance $8473.75
Savings Account Balance $9442.00
Status of Tax Bills:
Tax bills are ready and are going out this week.
3. Old Business
Nominating Subcommittee Update:
The subcommittee is still searching for suitable candidates.
Sheffield Brook Update:
Harry Plaut has been employed to keep Sheffield Brook outlet as well as other storm drain outlets
open.
SLPOA Lawsuit:
No update is available from the attorney at this time.
Police ATV Update:
The ATV is outfitted and training has been completed.
Patrols will begin as soon as the Town signs the agreement which could be as early as this weekend.
Police have determined that they will enforce all Town ordinances when and if they are called by
residents or security personnel from area beaches. No action is required or requested from us.
FEMA Grant Update:
Status of letter to the Town- The letter was drafted 3 weeks ago and sent to Tim Griswold and Tom
Roberge. Nothing has been heard from them thus far.
4. Committee Reports
Security- Mary Finley reported that everything was running smoothly.
Infrastructure- Bill Hardy reported that the movie equipment is running fine and he is looking into
additional street lighting from CL & P.
Finance- Gil Soucie reported that bank accounts will be moved to a more convenient bank for the
Treasurer- the decision will be based upon fees. He did not feel that they could invest any surplus
funds at this time. Any investment is likely to be in the form of a 1 year CD so to be available as
needed.
Drainage- Gil Soucie reported that the Town may have dropped Sheffield Brook from the list of
projects to be completed with the FEMA Grant. Mark Phelan stated that there was money budgeted
this year for 50% of the engineering costs for the Sheffield Brook work. The Board agreed that the
Pesident should contact the President of Old Colony Association to confirm that they too had
budgeted for the engineering work and determine if Old Colony would agree to go ahead with us to
undertake the necessary engineering to obtain Permits and bids for the actual work. The feeling is
that if we do the engineering, we will be a more attractive project for the FEMA Grant and if we are
not part of the Grant, we would need to complete this engineering anyway. Gil reminded the Board
that you cannot receive grant money retrospectively for work completed. Old Colony has expressed
interest in splitting the engineering cost with OLS in the past and OLS has budgeted half of the
money. The BOG recommended that we send a letter on behalf of OLS and Old Colony to the Town
informing them that we would be undertaking the engineering project.
Capitol Needs- Paul Rowean shared with the BOG his initial thoughts on criteria for prioritizing capitol
projects going forward. This is an attempt to plan for large expenditures and avoid large fluctuations
in tax rate. Paul hopes to have these criteria finalized for the Fall Meeting.
5. New Business
Federation of Beaches Report- Paul Rowean and Paul Graml attended the most recent FOB
Meeting. Paul Rowean volunteered to work with the FOB on our behalf and become more involved
in their activities. Paul Rowean and Gil Soucie are the new OLS delegates to the FOB.
Additional Micheal Cleary Band Engagement- Bill Hardy asked the BOG if he could, independently,
engage this band to perform on Friday, August 29th. This would be at no cost to the Association.
The BOG approved this request and thanked Bill for his generosity.
Traffic/Speed Issues- Paul Graml pointed out that he had received calls and emails from residents
citing frequent speeding by cars on the Association roads. He also explained that the “Smart Box”
had been positioned on Association roads by local police. The “Smart Box” is brought out when
several requests/complaints are made by residents to the police. Paul Graml also pointed out that
the Association had fewer barriers deployed on the roads than in past years. It was suggested that
before the Association invested in additional barriers, a survey of other systems should be
conducted. Paul Rowean volunteered to look at all available options and report back to the BOG at
a future date.
Excessive Noise Complaints- Several residents voiced complaints concerning late night drinking at
the end of Billow Road. It was reported that these were family members of residents using a golf cart-
like vehicle as a “rolling bar”. Repeated attempts had been made by residents to disperse the group
with little effect. It was also reported that a nineteen year old woman was thrown from this vehicle as
it sped through the neighborhood at roughly 2 AM one evening. Concern was expressed that
underage kids were part of this group and drinking alcoholic beverages. It was said that unregistered
vehicles were not permitted on OLS roadways via our ordinances. Paul Graml pointed out that it is
illegal to operate Golf Carts and Golf Cart-Like vehicles on any roadway in Connecticut under State
Law. A discussion surrounding increased Association liability due to this illegal activity took place. It
was pointed out that the Association insurance coverage would be viewed as the “deep pocket” in
any lawsuit regarding an injury caused by these illegal vehicles. The opinion of the Association
Attorney as to how to decrease Association liability surrounding this issue will be sought.
Future Meetings
The next BOG Meeting was set for Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 9:00 AM at 33 Brightwater Road.
The Fall Meeting was tentatively scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2008 pending the availability
of Mile Creek School.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 AM.
ANNUAL MEETING - Saturday, June 14, 2008, at 10:00 AM, at Mile Creek School.
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. INTRODUCTION
A. Welcome
Paul welcomed everyone and introduced Officers and Board of Governors. He also asked that new
members stand and introduce themselves.
B. Tribute to Deceased
Paul asked for a moment of silence in memory of those who have died in the past year:
Tommi Smith, Helene Leary, Richard Condon, Regina Lombardi Sullivan, Joseph McKinnon, John
Costelloe, Mary Unsworth, Dorothy Walsh, George Dewey, Stephen Dunn, Maria Lagana, Margot
Brynga, Bernice Price, Mickey McClure, John Foley, and Carl DiBernardi.
C. Volunteers
Paul thanked the many volunteers who have generously done so much for the Association, including
Julia Nixon, who oversees July 4th and other recreational activities and has a key to the bulletin
boards; Maura Graml, who manages the OLS website (www.oldlymeshores.com) and e-mail (old lyme
shores@yahoo.com), and also updated our Association Directory (assisted by Charlotte Genga);
Mark Bernacki(Sir Speedy Printers), for his terrific job in producing the Directory; and those who tend
the planters at the beachfront. Paul asked for additional volunteers to maintain and water the
planters - please notify any Officer or Board member if you are willing to volunteer.
2. SOUTH LYME PROPERTY OWNERS’ LAWSUIT UPDATE
We are still waiting for an update from our attorney, Bill McCoy, who is seeking information from Joe
Russo, head of the Owners’ group. Tim Griswold, First Selectman, wouldn’t (or couldn’t) provide Paul
Graml with any news, when asked. Paul did clarify that The South Lyme Property Owner's consider
our Association donation to this project as- a donation only - and it doesn’t make us a party to the
lawsuit. Dave Woolley said that he too, in conversation with Joe Russo, received confirmation that it
was a donation only. Dave added that he hasn’t talked directly to Tim Griswold, but he has heard
second-hand that ultimately a zoning change would resolve this issue between the Town and
property owners.
3. FEDERATION OF BEACHES UPDATE
Paul Graml and Gil Soucie are OLS representatives to the Federation. The Federation surveyed the
beaches and found that a common problem is security, especially at night. In the past, there has
been a sort of adversarial relationship between the police and the beaches, but now the Federation
is trying to work with the Town. The Federation has authorized purchase of an ATV which they are
donating to the Town for police patrol of the beaches at night. The Federation is using its $12,000
town grant to pay for police and the Town is assuming responsibility for insurance, vehicle
maintenance costs, etc. OLS has declined routine police patrol of our beach - we only want police
response when requested by Ace Security.
The Federation is trying to come up with a "loitering" rule for all beaches that conforms to the Town
definition of "loitering" - this is what police will respond to when called - violations of mutually-agreed
upon "loitering" or "noise disturbance" rule. Norman Yester raised a question about OLS meeting
minutes from last year that referred to notifying police about loitering/noise disturbance. He said that
in general, we want to avoid police intervention at OLS; we definitely want no repetition of a 1987
incident where police over-reacted in their response here at Old Lyme Shores, confronting residents
forcefully and triggering even further disruption , even some arrests. Above all, we never want a
recurrence of this scene. Paul Graml agreed, however, he pointed out, we do want some recourse
when large crowds gather on the beach, after the bars close - at the Old Colony/OLS border - noisy,
out of control, and unwilling to disperse - this is where police response could help.
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Security - Paul Graml
(1) Paul spoke for Mary Finley, Board member in charge of Security. Mary is finalizing plans with Ace
Security for this summer and working on a cooperative approach with other beaches.
(2) Mary Miles, who lives north of Route 156, pointed out that this area gets no service from Ace
Security. She described a recent incident involving suspicion of criminal activity in her area. Police
were called and the matter was resolved. Paul Graml thanked Mary for doing the right thing and said
he will report on this to Mary Finley.
(3) Ace Security will begin service on June 28, with Sea Spray the open road.
(4) Paul announced the ordinance change, adopted by the Board of Governors on 5/31/08,
extending beverages allowed on the beach to any non-alcoholic beverages in non-glass containers.
B. Beach - Dino Genga
Beach cleaning started in May, with the clearing of winter debris and leveling of the beach. This
week, swim lines and buoys will be put in the water. Last year the steps on the raft broke and it had
to be taken out of the water early. The raft is being repaired and Harry Plaut says we can probably
get one more year out of this raft, so Dino says we should anticipate purchase of a new raft next
year.
C. Grounds - Bill Hardy
(1) Bill announced that new signs are being made for the backs of the benches, traffic barriers are
being repaired as needed, two more bike racks are being purchased, and the electrical panel at the
end of Brightwater is being upgraded from the current 40 amps.
(2) Julia Nixon asked who is responsible for maintenance at the beach end of each street (overgrown
grass, etc.). Bill said he would look into this and seek volunteers, if needed.
(3) Other anticipated grounds improvements include:
• new movie equipment, to increase flexibility of scheduling (show movie the next night, if weather is
inclement) and upgrade our presentation.
• volleyball court on the beach - planning is ongoing regarding location, hours, etc.
• additional lighting where needed - Bill is looking for suggestions (someone noted that north of
Route 156 is very dark).
(4) Dave Woolley inquired about the status of Margaret White Memorial Fund and the idea of a
plaque on the bench at Billow. Paul Graml said that the money was returned to Sally Howley for use
as deemed appropriate by the family. Sally said that currently under consideration is a small granite
bench at the foot of Billow Road, in Margaret’s memory.
(5) Dave Woolley asked for clarification about the use of the ballfield for residents’ overflow parking.
Paul Graml said we have about 50 parking permits (for display on dashboard) available from Mary
Finley for residents’guests who wish to park there. These must be returned to Mary Finley after use.
Bill DeRosa asked why we don’t sell the ballfield. Paul Graml explained that this is a vey complicated
issue in that the deed restricts use of the property to recreation only and there are no known
survivors of the original owners to lift this restriction.
D. Drainage - Mark Phelan
Mark reported that $3,000 in last year’s budget was used for unplugging the pipe from Sea Spray to
Sheffield Brook and other maintenance. Most of the drainage from OLS is to Sheffield Brook and we
need to increase the capacity of the system. We invited three proposals for drainage improvements
and got one for $9,000. A regional group (CT Regional Estuary Planning Agency) has designated six
specific problem areas in Old Lyme and Sheffield Brook is one of them. Federal grant money is
available to the Town for these problems, so we are asking the Town to get this money and pay for
the needed project. In the meantime, we have $4500 in our budget and Old Colony is also to come
up with $4500, but we hope this will be paid for by Federal grant.
Paul Graml praised Mark for the great strides he is making in drainage planning, collaborating with
the Town and Old Colony in pursuing action and solutions.
5. BUDGET
A. Long-Term Needs Assessment
Paul Graml spoke for Paul Rowean, who has been working with Gil Soucie on capital planning. He
discussed their Power Point summary of the needs assessment process. Each committee chair
submits a list of capital needs, which then need to be prioritized, based on their importance to the
Association, immediacy of need, necessity to facilitate a priority need, and availability of outside
funding.
Fiscal preparation related to this needs assessment process involves building a Capital Fund for
major projects and also a Contingency Fund, separate from the Capital Fund, for necessities that
arise that are not in the regular budget.
B. Line Item Review
Gil Soucie discussed various line items in the Budget, including:
• Proposed income from taxes based on total assessed valuation of $56 million for OLS.
• Unpaid taxes account for the $19,000 difference between 5/31/08 "actual" and 2009 "proposed."
• Town grant remains $13,500. Increase requested but no increases this year.
• Possible road improvements would involve blowing in some material to repair cracks, better than
just filling cracks with tar.
• The $9800 "Contingencies" represents 10% of all proposed expenditures except Capital
expenditures.
• The $11,500 "Capital expenditures" includes purchase of raft, movie equipment, etc.
C. Comments
(1) Mary Miles suggested that the Budget should have been sent to members in advance. Gil said
this will be done in the future, if possible (send budget update with Call to the Fall Meeting).
(2) Norman Yester reminded us that an "Independent Contractor" should be sent a 1099 at year
end, and also noted that we should not be paying tax on our utility bills.
(3) Bill DeRosa suggested that Capital Funds interest be kept separate from other income sources.
MOTION - to approve the 2008-09 Budget as presented - PASSED
6. NOMINATING SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT
Chairman Dino Genga presented the Board-approved slate of nominations:
Paul Rowean and Mark Phelan - three-year Board of Governors terms.
Paul Graml - President; David French - Treasurer; Connie Gray - Secretary - one-year terms.
There were no nominations from the floor.
MOTION - that the Secretary cast one vote for election of the proposed slate - PASSED
7. MEMBER BUSINESS
A. No Vice-President?
Paul Graml responded to Dave Woolley’s question that there is no Vice-President as of now.
B. Tax Collector
Paul Graml explained that the Tax Collector is not elected by the Association, but instead is
appointed by the Board of Governors. Recently, the Treasurer has held the Tax Collector position,
but this is not a rule of law. Paul reminded members that anyone wishing to be considered for this
position or to communicate any concern should address the Board in writing or at the Association
website: www.oldlymeshores.com.
C. Fourth of July
Julia Nixon said that she will be assisted in July 4th activities by her son and daughter and also by
the Barlow children. She requested that parents accompany their children at the prize table, where
each child is to select a prize - children need help, as they often are very excited and parents can
help to keep the situation under control.
D. Guard Parking
Julia Nixon objected to minutes of recent Board meeting that characterized her as "complaining"
about guards parking on the Finley property. Seeing those cars, others then apparently feel they,
too, can park at the end of Saltaire, and supposedly this is not allowed.
This meeting was adjourned at 12:10 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
Board of Governors Meeting - Saturday, May 31, 2008, at 9:00 AM at Paul Graml’s house, 33
Brightwater Road.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Dino Genga, Mark Phelan, Gil Soucie, Mary Finley, Bill Hardy, Anne Conway,
Connie Gray.
Absentee: Paul Rowean
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Board approved minutes of the 5/31/08 Board of Governors meeting.
2. TREASURER’S REPORT
As of 5/31/08, we have $35,784.21 in savings account and $7,382.47 in checking account.
Paul Graml requested that each Board meeting we have an updated budget report, showing where
we are in terms of spending - expenditures in relation to budgeted amounts - a "rolling" budget
update.
3. OLD BUSINESS
A. Ordinance Change
Paul Graml has revised the Ordinances to reflect changes approved at last Board meeting regarding
drinking on the beach (soft drinks in plastic containers, as opposed to water only - no alcohol, no
glass), to be posted on Association bulletin boards and to become effective ten days after posting.
He is not including the loitering prohibition discussed at the last Board meeting, since the town
already has an ordinance prohibiting "noise disturbance" and will enforce it here, if requested. We
will inform the resident trooper that we want the town ordinance enforced here when police are called
by Ace Security. This will be contingent on other Federation Beaches agreeing to this strategy and
recomendations by the police.
B. Hazard Mitigation Plan
Gil Soucie reported on his meeting with Dave Roberge, Old Lyme’s representative to the Connecticut
Regional Estuary Planning Agency (he is also the town fire marshall). This group has designated six
specific problem areas in Old Lyme and Sheffield Brook is on this list. All we need to do is notify the
town that we have studied their plan and want to participate. There is grant money available for fiscal
year 2009 (7/1/08 - 6/30/09), with application due within 120 days after the fiscal year begins. Grant
money can be used to pay for engineering plans, and then for the actual work to be done, but not for
reimbursement of money already spent. The town is just starting to work on this plan, which involves
both OLS and Old Colony.
Gil thinks that probably the town would be the applicant for the grant funds, and that probably by late
spring 2009 the plan would be in force and the field work done. The specific plan of action for now
would be for Gil to draft a letter to the town indicating our interest in participating in this project,
submit this draft to Mark Phelan for approval, and then forward the final version to the town.
We already have one engineering proposal, from Joe Wren (Indigo Associates), and need to get two
more - Angus MacDonald/Gary Sharpe Associates previously did work for us and perhaps Dave
Roberge can suggest a third source. We should put half the engineering costs in our budget and
hope that Old Colony agrees to equal participation in this project.
C. Resident Drainage Issue
Paul Graml reported no update as yet on the Lally situation (response to Attorney McCoy letter
pending).
D. South Lyme Property Owners’ Lawsuit
No update yet on this issue (awaiting Attorney McCoy’s findings).
4. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Beach (Dino Genga)
Twice weekly beach cleaning for the month of June will start this week. Dino has asked Harry Plaut to
have all the miscellaneous beach equipment in place by mid-June; traffic gates (barriers) to be in
place by the end of June. Dino reminded us that we need $3500 in the budget for a new raft.
Anne Conway has already paid surcharges of $45 and $143.75 in Harry Plaut’s April and May bills;
Dino asked Anne to refer any future surcharges to him prior to payment.
B. Drainage (Mark Phelan)
The Board agreed with Mark that Harry Plaut should keep the drain pipes open and check weekly to
make sure that they are open.
C. Security (Mary Finley)
(1) Ace Security
Mary spoke again to Dave Vanasse and we will have the same security schedule, most of the same
people, and at the same price as last year.
(2) Stickers
Paul Graml will order more car stickers (for residents) - Mary’s supply is low, and she recommended
ordering a larger number, if, for example, buying 250 is more economical than buying 100.
(3) Increase Request
Mary reported a request from Julia Nixon that her son TC get a raise for his work this summer. He
performs miscellaneous jobs such as showing the movies, handling the beach trash barrels (putting
up for collection and back down on the sand), etc. The Board feels that he was generously
compensated last year ($250 for the movies and $450 for the barrels, etc.) and that he should
receive the same this year.
D. Nominating Committee
Dino announced the slate of nominations: President - Paul Graml; Vice-President - Paul Rowean;
Secretary - Connie Gray; Treasurer - David French; Board of Governors - Mark Phelan and Dick
Brady. The Officer positions are for one-year terms and the two Board positions are for three years.
MOTION - to accept this slate as presented by the Nominating Committee - PASSED
Dino will present the slate at the Annual Meeting, call for nominations from the floor and then for a
vote.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. Annual Meeting Requirements
(1) Budget
Gil Soucie, Finance Committee chairman, and David French, Treasurer nominee, will present the
2009 Budget at the Annual Meeting.
(a) Reserve Amount
Currently we have approximately $20,000 in reserve in our Budget, to cover some forthcoming
expenses (drainage, raft, road repairs, etc.) - operating overruns. Paul Graml suggested increasing
our
reserve for operating overruns, perhaps to $40,000. Already we know of certain increases coming
next year, according to Anne Conway, such as a 10% increase in premium for our umbrella liability
insurance and a 12% increase in CT Water Company rate.
Gil said what we really need is a road reserve fund - perhaps $20,000 toward our single most-
needed future expense. Paul Graml said we need two reserve funds: one (minimum $10,000) for
unanticipated increases or overruns (currently called "savings") and another for roads. He also
strongly suggests we look into the possibility of higher interest for our reserve money. Bill Hardy
suggested we call the one reserve "Contingency" and Mark Phelan suggested "Capital Savings" for
the other.
(b) Mill Rate
We need to finalize the expense side of the Budget before we can come up with a mill rate (currently
1.68 mills). Gil and Paul will work on the Budget, starting with a suggested $10,000 Contingency
reserve and $50,000 Capital reserve.
(c) Draft 2009 Budget
Gil distributed copies and led discussion of the draft. Various changes were noted, including:
FICA - Gil used 8.5% and Anne corrected this to 7.65%.
Add $3500 for new raft, Dino reminded Gil.
Include $500 for Storm Cleaning.
Increase Movies, July 4, Carousel, band concerts (Beach Activities/Recreation) approximately $1000
to $4200.
Purchase of new movie equipment estimated at about $1650.
CT Water 12% increase over this year’s $2300.
Increase Postage and Printing to $1500.
Reduce Safe Deposit Box fee to $45.
Include $700 for TC Nixon miscellaneous beach duties (movies, trash barrels, etc.).
(2) Annual Meeting Reports by Committee
Each committee chairman will discuss changes from last year and present a brief overview of actions.
(3) Cooperative Security with Federation of Beaches
Paul Graml will present an update on Federation plans for police patrol of beaches.
(4) South Lyme Property Owners’ Lawsuit
Paul will address this issue and hopes to have an update.
(5) Ordinance Changes
Mary Finley will discuss the change that allows soft drinks in plastic containers.
(6) Annual Meeting Letter and Agenda
Paul distributed copies of the letter and agenda that will be sent out this week.
B. Volleyball Net Request
The Board discussed an owner’s request that we set up a volleyball court on the beach. Paul Graml
suggested that perhaps the area in front of the Ingle cottage (Billow end of beach) would be the most
unobtrusive location. Bill Hardy said the poles for the net could be mounted in tires filled with
concrete, to avoid having to set up and take down the net every day. The poles could be laid down
each night, to avoid the possibility of anyone getting hurt. He proposed one pole about 10-12 feet
from the sea wall and the other about 30 feet out,
toward the water. Dino said the approximate size of a volleyball court is 20' by 40'. The net will cost
about $150 - $200, according to Bill Randazzo.
The Board approved installation of volleyball equipment, as discussed, to be used only between 4:00
PM and sunset.
C. Expenditures Requiring Board Vote
The Board agreed that no BOG vote is needed for something already included in the Budget, but
miscellaneous expenditures not in the Budget require approval of the President or Vice-President.
D. Other New Business
(1) Guard Parking
Mary Finley reported that Julia Nixon is concerned that Ace Security guards’ cars parked on the
Finley property obstruct her view of the water. The Board, however, is grateful that the Finleys are
willing to provide this space for guard parking, and Mary notes that this enables her to keep track of
guards’ working hours, seeing when they arrive and depart, so the parking arrangement will continue.
(2) Grounds Improvements
Bill Hardy said it will cost approximately $800 to replace the electrical panel at the waterfront, which
needs to be upgraded from the current 40 amps. New signage for the backs of benches at the
waterfront will cost about $500.
(3) Road Barriers
Road barriers (traffic gates) will be put out the last week in June.
(4) Open Road
Sea Spray will be the first open road (other 3 gates closed), starting June 28th.
(5) Planters
Mary reported that Carl DiBernardi (13 Sea Lane) has offered to take care of setting up the planters
at the beach end of each street. He will water the Brightwater planter, Mary will do Saltaire, and
Bruno Condon has offered to take care of Billow, so all we need is a volunteer to water the Sea
Spray planter.
This meeting was adjourned at 11:30 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
FALL MEETING - Saturday, September 8, 2007, at 10:00AM, at Mile Creek School
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Paul Graml, who thanked everyone for
attending and observed that we have had a very good summer this year at Old Lyme Shores, and
thanked members for their participation and cooperation. Paul expressed the Association’s gratitude
to Dave Woolley for his many years of leadership and dedication to the Association. As a token of
this appreciation, Paul presented Dave with a gift certificate for two nights at The Equinox in
Manchester, Vermont. Dave thanked the Association and expressed his wishes for a good year next
year for everyone here at Old Lyme Shores.
1. BOARD OF GOVERNORS
a. Introductions
Paul introduced Board members Mary Finley (Security), Bill Hardy (Grounds), Paul Rowean and Gil
Soucie (Capital Expenditures), Dino Genga (Beach), Mark Phelan (Drainage), Vice-President Terry
Walsh and Secretary Connie Gray.
b. Nominating Subcommittee
Paul announced that the Nominating Subcommittee, comprising Terry Walsh, Chairman, Gil Soucie
and Dino Genga, is seeking applicants for next years Board vacancies as well as the Treasurer
(elected) and Tax Collector (appointed) positions (Anne Conway is stepping down next year). He
encouraged interested members to apply in writing to the Nominating Subcommittee.
2. MEMBER RECOGNITION
Vice-President Terry Walsh thanked several members for their generous contributions and efforts
this year:
• Julia Nixon - July 4th parade and activities, String of Pearls concert, Carousel Night - and her
son T.C. for Friday night movies
• Dave French & Matt Merritt - Michael Cleary Band concert
• Bev Ahlers - Ladies luncheon/picnic at her home
• Audrey Sanelli & Margaret Farrelly - maintenance of floral planters at waterfront
Paul Graml thanked his wife Maura for assuming responsibility for both the OLS website and the
member directory (work in progress), and encouraged any who have not yet submitted information
for the directory to get it to Maura now. Paul also thanked Barbara Beal for her hard work in the past
in producing, amending, and distributing the directory.
3. INTERIM BUDGET
Paul Rowean presented and discussed a Power Point summary of the current budget and
expenditures to date, reflecting approximately 61% spent thus far. Jeanne Munnelly asked about
donations to the fire department and ambulance association and Paul said these would be paid
when requested.
4. RESULTS OF WATER DELIVERY STUDY
Dino Genga discussed results of studies and tests commissioned by the Association to document
our water delivery system. On display was a schematic showing the current situation and Dino
reviewed what the Connecticut Water Company has proposed - completion of installation of 8" year-
round pipes on Brightwater at their expense (they pay for pipes and installation, OLS pays for
paving), and then on other roads with the water company paying only for materials and OLS paying
for installation and paving. Several questions and comments followed:
Ed McSweegan - asked why a representative has not yet come to speak to the Association, as
approved at 2006 Annual Meeting - Dino said they will send a representative when we are ready to
start the project and have approved the spending.
Barbara Beal - asked if Old Colony paid for their paving - Dino said they did. And at Point of Woods,
the Association is paying for installation of pipes, plus paving, whereas CT Water Company is paying
$800,000 for materials (pipes).
June McKeon - asked if with new pipes we will have year-round water. Dino explained that the water
would be turned on year-round, but that alone does not qualify a property for year-round
occupancy.
Don Mullane - asked where the current water mains are located - under lawns or under pavement?
Dino said they are under lawns, but current state law requires new lines to be under pavement. Don
responded that repairing a road after installing laterals to each property costs a lot less than
replacing the entire road.
Dave Woolley - he believes that new regulations require piping under roads, not lawns, and added
that new pipes would provide the added benefit of more fire hydrants.
Jeanne Munnelly - suggested that we check with the fire department to see if 2" mains are adequate.
Don Mullane - repeated his point that with 40' wide roads (approximately 26' of pavement and 6-8' of
lawn on either side), why do we have to pay for paving?
Rosalie Zanoni - said there are machines that tunnel under pavement to install pipes, eliminating the
need to tear up the roads.
5. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
Paul Graml encouraged members with expertise or interest in particular fields to make themselves
known and offer their assistance. The community is enriched by the involvement and contributions of
its membership.
a. Beach - Dino Genga
Dino observed that in general we had a very good summer on the beach here at Old Lyme Shores
and thanked George Finley and Frank Farrelly for voluntarily monitoring beach conditions.
b. Security - Mary Finley
Mary commended the services of Ace Security, thanked the 98% who treated the guards with
respect and encouraged the other 2% to try to be more considerate and respectful in the future.
She noted that we had some problems with illegal parking and trespassers - 42 cars parked without
permits at the ballfield one weekend and people parking on Route 156 and using our beach - we’ll
continue to work on this. Another nuisance has been groups gathering at the OLS/Old Colony
border at night - noise disturbance and even using our beach as a bathroom.
A few questions and comments followed:
Ann Moriarty - asked what is the difference between weekdays and weekends, in terms of cars being
turned away at the gate. Mary said that there is a huge difference, due to much heavier traffic on
weekends. One weekend 52 cars were turned away and 59 were turned away on another weekend.
Ann Vaughan - noted that cars continue to speed down Sea Spray Road and often do not stop at
the stop signs.
Connie Merritt - advised members to make sure their incoming guests know the name on the cottage
they are going to - the guard at the gate has nothing to go by except his official list of owners.
c. Grounds - Bill Hardy
Bill summarized some of the projects being done to enhance Association property. The traffic gates
(barriers) have already been taken away for repair and reflectors will be added. Additional signage
is being prepared for the ends of streets (rules, etc.) and for the ballfield property. “No Outlet” signs
have already been added to closed gates. Benches at each street (waterfront) will be reconditioned
and repainted for next year.
Comments from the floor:
Barbara Beal - reminded us that pedestrians and others using the streets ( on bikes, scooters, etc.)
need to be just as careful and vigilant as drivers - move to the side of the road for cars to pass.
Allice Lynch - guard should say to each and every incoming driver, “15 miles per hour” - is that
asking too much?
David French - still concerned about careless drivers at the Billow/Bellaire intersection.
Julia Nixon - her son TC was responsible for putting beach trash cans up for collection and observed
a tremendous amount of trash left on the beach - broken chairs, etc. - items too bulky to put in trash
cans - people need to take these items up to their cottages and discard them, not leave them on the
beach.
Ann Moriarty - suggested that we could provide community service suggestions to young people
here who need to fulfill requirements to earn badges (Boy and Girl Scouts, for example) - give them
useful chores which would benefit our community.
d. Drainage - Mark Phelan
Mark complimented his predecessor, former Board member Charlie Beal, for the tremendous job he
did in this area. The $3,000 budgeted for drainage this year will be used for improvements between
Sea Lane and Sheffield Brook and cleaning of catch basins. Mark has reviewed a study done about
ten years ago, showing that in some areas here excess ground water flows through swales between
back-to-back properties, in the direction of the Sound, whereas other properties drain into Sheffield
Brook. He pointed out some of these locations on the map Dino posted in the front of the room.
Both systems present serious problems and Mark intends to look into these problems during the off-
season and report back to the membership next year.
Paul Graml added that we are trying to pull together all of the information and documents we have,
regarding drainage, infrastructure, etc. to see where we are at and where we should go from here.
e. Capital Expenditures - Paul Rowean
Paul presented a Power Point exhibit providing a long-term look at OLS projects and funding options
for these projects. Standard funding options include general taxation(mill rate increase) and
borrowing funds. Creative options include selling to members the 6-8 feet of Association property in
front of their homes to increase their total square footage, forming a “road club,” and selling or
leasing the ballfield. Next steps by the Capital Expenditures Subcommittee include:
• Prioritizing projects
• Clarifying funding options
• In the spring, mailing to membership Board-approved proposals for capital projects
• Association vote on the budget at 2008 Annual Meeting
In response to Chris Gilland’s question regarding content of the spring mailing, Paul Graml said all of
the necessary information will be provided and costs will be incorporated into the budget.
6. MEMBER ISSUES
a. Recycling bins - Every property should have a town-issued bin for recyclables. Anyone who
doesn’t should call the Selectman’s office or Shoreline Sanitation for information on how to obtain
one.
b. Water metering - Dino Genga explained that this does not apply to OLS for the foreseeable
future; the letter regarding this, from CT Water Co. in May, was sent to OLS customers in error.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
Board of Governors Meeting - Sunday, July 29, 2007, at 8:30 AM, at Paul Graml’s house, 33
Brightwater Road.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Theresa Walsh, Bill Hardy, Gil Soucie, Mary Finley, Mark Phelan, Dino
Genga, Paul Rowean, Anne Conway, Connie Gray
The meeting was called to order at 8:30 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. DAN SCHIAVONE PROPERTY ISSUE
In attendance was Dan Schiavone, owner of 13 Sea Lane, accompanied by his attorney, Michael
Cronin, his contractor, Phil Trowbridge, and caretaker, Carl DiBernardi. They were invited to this
meeting to discuss the Board’s questions regarding Schiavone’s 2005 project, which included a new
garage and driveway, extensive landscaping reconfigurations and other changes. The issue was
whether Mr. Schiavone encroached on Association property and what, if anything, the Board should
do about it. A recent survey of our roads shows that the present width of Brightwater Road, from
Schiavone’s property to Barlow’s (63 Brightwater) is 16 feet; the other three streets, at the same
relative location, are 21 to 25 feet in width.
Phil Trowbridge said that the hedge has been in place since 1983. Mulch was put in during the
recent project to improve drainage, but this didn’t change the footprint, according to Trowbridge.
What changed, he said, was the driveway. When he and Schiavone attended a Board meeting in
August, 2005, the Board requested that Schiavone provide documentation, from the creator of the
plot plan for the project, of the distance from where the Association roadway bordered his
plantings/curbing in relation to a fixed structure before the project and where that same border is
now in relation to that fixed structure, after completion of the project
Schiavone has owned his property since January 12, 1983 and claims that the border of his property
and the roadway has not moved. Paul Graml asked him for a plot plan from 1983, and Attorney
Cronin said he could probably come up with an aerial view from that time, of the area in question,
which Paul said could be helpful . When Mark Phelan asked Schiavone if he agrees that his
landscaping and driveway encroach on Association property, Dan agreed, but he added that there
are many other similar examples throughout Old Lyme Shores.
Paul Graml reiterated his request for a plot plan. Attorney Cronin said he would try to produce
documentation in time for the next Board meeting, to assist in determining when the 5' incursion
occurred. After the Schiavone group left, there was a brief discussion of the situation and the need
for further clarification before any final action by the Board.
2. MINUTES OF LAST MEETING
Dino Genga made a correction to Item #7-g in the minutes of the 6/23/07 Board meeting, to indicate
that the Connecticut Water Company is willing to send a representative to speak to an Association
meeting.
MOTION - to approve the minutes of the 6/23/07 Board meeting as corrected – PASSED
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Anne Conway reported that we have $14,000 in the checking account and $2,235.25 in the savings
account. She deposited $25,000 a couple of weeks ago and has another $25,000, approximately, to
deposit now.
4. OLD BUSINESS
a. Insurance
Anne Conway said that according to our insurance agent, Dick Torrenti, we could probably pay on a
16-month basis, but the cost would be higher and the policy would have to be rewritten, so it is
probably not advisable to make this change. It was suggested that perhaps we should explore other
insurance provider possibilities - get other quotes and see if we can find something less expensive.
The Board agreed that this should be looked into.
b. Margaret White Memorial Fund
Anne read a letter from Sally Howley saying that several people had expressed interest in
establishing a fund in memory of Margaret White, for needed equipment and functions to benefit the
Association. The Board agreed that the family should administer any such proposed fund, and
directed Anne to return all funds to Sally.
5. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Beach - Dino Genga
Beach cleaning is going well - no problems - and much appreciated is the voluntary monitoring by
George Finley and Frank Farrelly.
b. Security - Mary Finley
Mary briefly reviewed the situation a few weeks ago, when 42 cars were parked at the ballfield. Paul
Graml noted the need for change in wording on the signs there, to indicate that parking is not
allowed without a permit and violators will be towed.
Eileen McClure brought up a policy question to the Board after she observed a group of people she
saw on the beach that she felt were not members or guests of Association members. She wondered
what effort the guards make to determine if people are trespassing on Association property. The
Board discussed when the guards should make an effort to determine whether a person belongs. It
was decided that every time someone is spoken to for violation of beach rules, an attempt will be
made to determine if they belong at OLS. Members and their guests should be aware of Association
rules already. This will be in addition to instances when the guards believe people are trespassing
or when they are alerted by Association members.
c. Capital Expenditures - Paul Rowean
Paul said that in the past few weeks he has had Gil Soucie and Mark Phelan looking into ways to
raise money for the long-term capital needs of the Association. Ideas included:
•Possible financial benefit from Association ownership of eight feet of land from the road into each
resident’s property.
•Formation of a new organization or “club” other than the Association, comprised of OLS members,
with fund-raising capabilities not restricted by the OLS charter.
•Potential financial benefits from the ballfield.
Regarding exact responsibilities of the water company to maintain and upgrade the existing system,
Dino said we should have a written reply within thirty days from the DPUC to our inquiry. Bill Hardy
expressed concern about the possibility of increased costs, which sometimes happens when utility
company projects are postponed too long. Mark Phelan asked how our situation compares to Old
Colony and Dino assured him that Old Colony paid for paving; their project differed in scope from
ours (only 1 or 1 ½ streets), but they did pay for paving.
Each Board member will be asked to submit to Paul any capital expenses they foresee in their area
of responsibility for the next five years. These will be prioritized and a similar list of possible funding
sources will be developed.
d. Grounds - Bill Hardy
Bill reviewed ongoing activities and ideas of his subcommittee. Repainting, by volunteers, of the
traffic barriers should be completed by the end of next week. “No Outlet” signs will be installed on
gates at the top of closed roads. A new sign, with two-sided message visible from both directions
and costing about $150, is being designed for the open road. Bill will e-mail the design to the Board
when it is available. And he is looking into the replacement of benches at the beach end of each
street, or enhancement of the present benches, which he says can be done inexpensively by a mill
shop.
e. Drainage - Mark Phelan
Mark has investigated David Richardson’s questions about drainage and feels that the issues he has
raised are not the Association’s responsibility. The Board agrees with this.
Mark said we have no topographical survey of Sea Spray Road. The Board will assemble all the
surveys and maps we currently have and then estimates will be sought, if we need to supplement
what we have.
6. ADDITIONAL OLD BUSINESS
Terry Walsh commented on the mowing of the ballfield. She said it has been mowed now, but it was
very overgrown before this mowing. It is supposed to be mowed every two weeks, but according to
Anne Conway, we have only paid for mowing done.
7. COMPENSATION FOR SECRETARY, TREASURER AND TAX COLLECTOR
Currently, annual compensation for the Secretary is $1200, Treasurer $1200 and Tax Collector
$900. Budget preparation recently has been much more demanding on the Treasurer than in
previous years. An attempt to survey other beaches will occur before any changes are made.
8. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Town Payment to the Association
Mary Finley said we have been getting the same $13,500 each year from the Town of Old Lyme for
ages and thinks we should ask for more. Other beaches have requested more and they got it. Paul
Graml said that the town sends out a form for us to submit and when we get this we should decide
what to request
b. Federation of Beaches bill
The Board told Anne to pay the $600 bill from the Federation.
c. Mosquito spraying
Terry Walsh volunteered to find out how we can get Old Lyme Shores included in this program.
d. Speeding
Members of the Board believe this continues to be a big problem. There was discussion on the
merits of the current barriers versus speed bumps. It was decided that additional barriers should be
placed on the open road in the future.
e. Federation of Beaches
Paul Rowean asked that Paul G. and Terry, our representatives, keep us posted on what’s going on
with the Federation. Paul said that the one meeting he attended focused mainly on governance,
creation of a mission statement, and other organization and structure matters - nothing really
important to report yet.
f. Payment to Anne Conway
Anne asked if it was OK for her to get her semi-annual compensation for her Association jobs, and
also reimbursement for a few job-related costs (office supplies, for example). The Board approved.
g. Norman Yester’s concerns
Paul Graml spoke with Norman Yester, after Norman sent a letter to Officers and Board Members
expressing some of his concerns about the Association and its governance. Paul said it was a
productive meeting and feels that Norman now has a better picture of what we do and offered his
assistance on some financial matters.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
Board of Governors Meeting - Saturday, June 23, 2007, at 8:30 AM, at Paul Graml’s house, 33
Brightwater Road.
Attendees: Paul Graml, Theresa Walsh, Gil Soucie, Mary Finley, Mark Phelan, Dino Genga, Paul
Rowean, Anne Conway, Connie Gray
Absentee: Bill Hardy
The meeting was called to order at 8:30 AM by President Paul Graml.
1. INTRODUCTIONS AND PROCEDURES
Paul introduced new Board members Gil Soucie and Mark Phelan and other attendees.
He then discussed some procedural issues mentioned in his letter of 6/18/07 to the Board and
Officers:
a. Communication - Paul hopes that we can communicate electronically as much as possible. The
Old Lyme Shores e-mail address is oldlymeshores@yahoo.com and our website is www.
oldlymeshores.com. Association Member Concerns - any individual Association member requests or
issues must be submitted in writing ahead of time in order to be discussed at Board meetings.
c. Board Member Concerns - after receiving agenda, Board members can request to have items
added to the agenda, or they can introduce additional items at the meeting as “New Business” or
“Other Business.”
d. Subcommittee Issues - at Board meetings, we can have a brief update of subcommittee activity, if
it is “news,” but day-to-day matters should be handled by the subcommittees and do not have to be
brought to the Board.
2. TREASURER’S REPORT
Anne Conway announced that we have $3,350.65 in our checking account and $17,218.15 in
savings
.
3. MAILING TO MEMBERSHIP
Paul Graml noted that since people do pay attention to their tax bills, it would be wise to include with
this mailing a number of other important documents. Anne hopes to get the tax bills out next week,
and also to be included in this package are:
a. a short letter from Paul introducing the Ordinances, with special emphasis on the prohibition
against dogs on the beach and unleashed dogs anywhere in Old Lyme Shores, as well as the ban
on coolers on the beach. Also to be included here is mention that anyone who wants a copy of the
Budget should request it and Paul Rowean will e-mail it or otherwise get it to them.
b. Ordinances
c. Roster of Board and Officers
d. Directory information sheet - only those who fill out and return this form will receive a directory.
4. ATTORNEY McCOY FEEDBACK
a. Ordinances
Attorney Bill McCoy has reviewed and approved our Ordinances. He agrees that we have very
limited enforcement options, noting that we can impose $25 per day fines for infractions. In the case
of a significant dispute, he outlined a process for the Board to follow and confirmed that an unpaid
fine should be made a part of the member’s land record (attached as a lien).
b. Issues Regarding Funding Sources
1) Ballfield deed - Attorney McCoy’s presents two possible interpretations of the ballfield deed and
their implications. In either case, there are definite limitations and requirements. Gil Soucie summed
up the situation by saying that the true test is whether or not a company will issue title insurance on
the property - if they will, then the property is sellable.
2) Voting - Attorney McCoy also clarified the procedure for Association voting - the Board acts and if
the Association petitions for a meeting on that action, the membership can either ratify or overturn
that action by their vote at that meeting. Issues are not put up for Association vote, but instead are
subject to a vote of the Board, and if that Board action is then called into question by the
Association, following the established procedure the Association can either approve or overturn that
action at an Association meeting.
3) Taxing - According to Attorney McCoy, a tax based on assessed value of property owned is the
Association’s only means of collecting money from the membership - no special assessment, no “flat
tax,” no conveyance tax - the only allowable method is the method we already use. If we need more
money for big projects, the Board must specify these projects and costs in the Budget, raise the mill
rate accordingly, and present all of this for approval at an Association meeting.
Paul Rowean suggested that there might be other “creative” funding sources available to us, such as
perhaps forming another corporation (Old Lyme Social Club, for example) and charging a flat tax to
members, to raise money for big projects. Paul Graml said that this might be worth considering.
We will ask Attorney McCoy to pursue further this whole issue of our fund-raising options; $2500 for
this purpose was approved by the Board on 5/27/07.
5. SUBCOMMITTEE STRUCTURE AND MEMBERSHIP
We currently have three Board subcommittees: Beach, Security, and Capital Expenditures. Paul
Graml stressed the importance of efficient subcommittee operations, to relieve the Board of getting
bogged down at Board meetings in long, dragged-out discussion of the minutiae of day-to-day
operations. Discussion of possible additional subcommittees followed:
a. Grounds Subcommittee - Dino Genga suggested that this could cover some of the chores that
Dave Woolley formerly handled on his own, such as moving signs and traffic barriers, overseeing
road repairs, and other related operations. According to Paul Rowean, new Board member Bill
Hardy is interested in heading this committee. T.C. Nixon’s duties would be in this category.
Dino Genga’s Beach Subcommittee would remain the same, covering sand and water, whereas this
Grounds Subcommittee would cover Association property other than sand and water.
b. Drainage Subcommittee - Mark Phelan expressed interest in taking on this responsibility.
Drainage issues were the domain of former Board member Charlie Beal, but not as an official
subcommittee.
c. Social Subcommittee - it was suggested that perhaps we need this, especially in view of the influx
of new members who could benefit from some sort of introduction to the Association. Charlotte
Genga has volunteered to prepare a “welcome package” for new owners. Paul Graml envisions a
Social Subcommittee to be responsible for this “welcome package”as well as beach activities, the
website, and other related functions.
d. Liaison with outside entities - Mark Phelan suggested a subcommittee to represent us in dealings
with outside entities such as the town and other beach associations. Paul Graml said he would like
to take on this responsibility, including being our representative to the Federation of Beaches,
assisted by Terry Walsh.
MOTION - to expand to five our existing structure of three subcommittees, adding Grounds and
Drainage to Beach, Security, and Capital Expenditures Subcommittees, and to authorize our
President and Vice-President to act as our liaison with outside entities such as the town and other
beach associations - PASSED
6. BOARD MEETINGS
Paul Graml said he anticipates having Board meetings at three to four week intervals, as needed,
and the Board seemed to agree on Sunday mornings at 8:30 AM as a good time.
7. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Increased cost - Dino said that the cost of installing the swim lines, anchors, weights, etc., as
discussed and approved at a previous Board meeting, will be considerably higher than anticipated.
Almost everything is worn out and must be replaced.
b. Recycling bins - Mary Finley said that the town will be delivering to her property this Wednesday
recycling bins for distribution to all Old Lyme Shores summer residences. The Board discussed how
to distribute these - perhaps each Board member could be responsible for transporting bins to
houses in an appointed area, or perhaps we could utilize the guards and/or T.C. Nixon for this task.
c. Hammer Law Exemptions - Paul Graml requested Board approval of completion of improvements
to his kitchen in early July, and Terry Walsh likewise requested permission for sheetrock work at her
house, also in early July.
MOTION - to approve the requests of Paul Graml and Terry Walsh for exemption from hammer law
restrictions until July 14, 2007 - PASSED
d. Connecticut Water Company letter - Dino said that the water company in error sent a letter to Old
Lyme Shores customers in May. This letter said that installation of meters was imminent and
that customers would soon be billed according to usage rather than at a flat rate. Dino asked that
Paul Graml include in his letter going out soon to members (with tax bills) this correction - that the
letter should not have been sent to Old Lyme Shores customers because meters here are not
imminent.
e. Corrections to minutes of June 16, 2007 Annual Meeting - Gil Soucie said that the last item in the
minutes (#8-i) should be corrected to say that spouses of owners are eligible to hold office in the
Association, as per Section 1 of the Charter. Anne Conway noted that Mary Howley’s name should
be included in this same item (#8-i), as she was the one who specifically brought up the issue of
trusts and corporations, regarding eligibility to vote and hold office. And thirdly, Anne requested
correction of the spelling of her name in item #7 - Pettit, not Petit.
f. Agenda for Board meetings - Dino suggested that in the future the first item on the Board meeting
agenda should be additions and corrections to minutes of previous meeting, and the second item
should be the Treasurer’s Report.
g. Anti-Board sentiment - Paul Rowean expressed his sense that there is a strong feeling among
some in the Association that the Board is somewhat manipulative and secretive, trying to push things
through that members don’t want. Mark Phelan added that this is indeed true, that many people feel
that the Board is trying to make things happen that they don’t want, and especially things that cost a
lot of money. Gil Soucie confirmed that there has always been an undercurrent of anti-Board
sentiment. He has been here thirty years and there have always been those who are suspicious of
the Board and its motives.
It was suggested that we get someone from the water company to speak at an Association meeting -
to tell the Association what’s what, what to expect, get the facts out, answer questions, etc. Dino said
he will have a representative from the water company, as well as our civil engineer, address the
Association when we have a financial plan in place to fund the paving of Brightwater Road.
h. Annual Meeting date - Anne Conway suggested that, in the future, the Annual Meeting be moved
to an earlier date. It has been on Fathers’ Day weekend for years now, and that is too late, giving
her only two weeks to get the tax bills out, and we need the tax money quickly in order to pay the
bills, particularly the insurance bill. Paul Graml, on the other hand, prefers a later date for the
meeting; he would like it to be the third week in June, one week later than it has been. Dino
suggested that we ask the insurance company to change our billing date (currently July 12). Or, Gil
Soucie said, ask them to put us on a 14-month billing cycle. Paul Rowean said he likes the timing of
the meeting as it is.
MOTION - to move the Annual Meeting to the third weekend in June - PASSED
i. Margaret White Memorial Fund - Anne asked what she should do with $200 that she was given by
Sally Howley for this fund. The Board told her to hold onto it until we find out more about this matter.
j. Bulletin Board keys - Paul Graml, Dutch McClure, Bill Hardy, and Connie Gray will have keys.
k. David Richardson - Anne reported that she was approached by David Richardson right after the
Annual Meeting, complaining that his neighbor Bill Hardy has planted trees on the property line that
are going to get too big. Richardson said he will sue, if the Board doesn’t act now. The Board said
he should put his complaint in writing to the Board.
Paul Rowean noted that Richardson is the one who voiced many complaints at the Annual Meeting,
including his concerns about a drainage catch basin on his property. Mark Phelan, chairman of the
Drainage Subcommittee, said he would send Richardson a note to follow up on this.
l. Disclosure - Mark Phelan said that he has had problems with Old Colony in the past year and has
had no cooperation from them in trying to resolve these problems. He is letting us know now that
there is probably going to be a lawsuit He clarified that the problems are with Old Colony, the
association, not with the abutting property owner.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
ANNUAL MEETING - Saturday, June 16, 2007, at 10:00 AM, at Mile Creek School.
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Dave Woolley. He introduced Association
Officers and Board of Governors members seated at the front of the room.
1. TRIBUTE TO DECEASED
Dave Woolley read names of Old Lyme Shores community members who have died in the past year:
James Griffith and Helen Turley (brother and sister of Eileen McClure), Lois Molloy, Landon Sahlin,
Emily McGuire (sister of Mary Unsworth), Mary Orlando (Charlotte Genga’s mother), Joseph
DeMichele, Barbara DeRosa, Barbara Duhaime, Margaret White, and Nancy Rice. Dave asked for a
moment of silence in their memory.
2. SUMMER 2007 RECREATION
Dave introduced Julia Duhaime Nixon, who previewed upcoming activities:
• Saturday, June 30 (rain date July 1) - Fourth of July parade at 10 AM, sand castle contest
(winners announced at 1 PM), and beach races for various ages starting at 2 PM, with prizes and ice
cream for all participants.
• Saturday, July 14 - String of Pearls band concert at 7:30 - 9:00 PM at Brightwater beach area.
• Saturday, August 4 - Old Lyme Shores Carousel Night at Sound View - 6 - 6:45 PM.
3. SECURITY
Mary Finley, Board member in charge of Security, announced that we have hired last year’s
provider, Ace Security, Inc., for service again this summer. Gates will be closed starting next
Saturday, with Billow the open street June 23 -29. All streets will be open Saturday, June 30,
Sunday, July 1, and Wednesday, July 4, for holiday traffic. On Monday and Tuesday, July 2 & 3, and
Thursday and Friday, July 5 & 6, Sea Spray will be open and other three streets closed. Starting
Saturday, July 7, Saltaire will be the open street for the week, then Brightwater starting on July 14,
etc., changing to the next street each Saturday morning until September 1.
4. BEACH CLEANING
Board member Dino Genga said that beach cleaning contractor Harry Plaut no longer will have to
leave excess seaweed piled on the beach, when the dump is closed, which was a problem last year.
Now he has a lot up on Route 156 where he can store it. Beach cleaning hours are 7 - 9 AM and
people should keep their chairs and other beach gear off the sand until after the beach is cleaned.
Old Lyme Shores residents George Finley and Frank Farrelly have offered to monitor the beach
daily, to see that everything goes smoothly and on schedule.
5. BUDGET
Board member Paul Rowean commenced discussion of the proposed 2007-2008 Budget by noting
that we are ending the 2006-2007 budget year without a deficit and the Board recommends keeping
the 1.68 mill rate for the upcoming year. Paul projected the proposed Budget on the screen in the
front of the room and went through it line by line (attendees had copies of the Budget, distributed to
everyone as they arrived at the meeting). He noted that the $8800 expenditure under
“Miscellaneous” was for the engineering study done on our roads last fall - test borings and drawings
- to determine where there is ledge - which he said was a good investment and useful for the future.
Discussion followed:
a. Insurance - Dave Woolley discussed this item, observing that we have had an excellent agent,
Dick Torrenti, for several years, and he has been able to get for us this very comprehensive
coverage - municipal insurance - which not all agents are able to write. Years ago we had minimal
$500,000 liability coverage, but now our coverage is in the moderate seven figure range.
b. Non-payment of taxes - Julia Nixon asked what we do about owners who do not pay their
Association taxes. Anne Conway, Treasurer, responded that we are empowered to place liens on
properties for non-payment of taxes. Dave said that in a few such instances of small amounts owed
on small lots, we have not rushed into litigation, for reasons relating to public relations.
c. Professional fees - Bill Randazzo questioned the $6,000 proposed for this line item, and noted
that he is disturbed by several other items as well. He said we should break down
“professional fees” and itemize specifically what it covers. Paul Graml, Vice-President, briefly
enumerated some of our legal needs of the past year, which fall under this category.
d. Miscellaneous disbursements - Someone questioned the $8800 spent on test borings,
engineering studies, and topographical drawings, asserting that this was never approved by the
Association. Dino Genga said the Association approved $20,000 for this work two years ago and
someone else said the approval occurred at last year’s Annual Meeting.
e. Connecticut Water Company - In answer to a question regarding the expenditure to Connecticut
Water Company, Dave Woolley explained that this reflects the rental fee paid to the water company
for year-round water mains on Sea Lane and upper Brightwater, which service the required fire
hydrants in those areas. We also pay them the same $330 that other customers pay for summer
water, for the bubbler and shower at the foot of Brightwater.
f. Fire Protection - Craig Stalk asked who is liable for assuring that our fire hydrants and fire wells
are in good shape and functioning properly, and Dave Woolley elaborated on the excellent service
that we receive from the Old Lyme Fire Department.
g. Drainage - David Richardson had questions about the $3000 budgeted for drainage and was
advised that someone on the Board would discuss his questions personally with him.
h. Topographical drawings - Paul Zanoni questioned the need for these, asked where these
drawings are, why we had them done again when we already have the same thing on file with the
town, whether they show the original widths of our streets (40' each) or the widths as they are now
(varying), etc. Road specifications reflect current figures, not original, was the response. The
question was reiterated - why did we spend this money when we already had this information?
i. Road widths - David Richardson had further questions about the widths of roads. Gil Soucie
responded that two of our streets are 35' wide and the other two are narrower; the old paperwork
shows all roads at 40'.
MOTION - to approve the 2007-2008 Association Budget as presented - PASSED
6. ORDINANCES
Paul Graml said that Association Ordinances were updated and have been posted for comment
since last February. They are now under review by an attorney and he hopes they are ready in time
to get a one-page copy out to the membership with tax bills. Paul also reminded members to check
the Association website - www.oldlymeshores@yahoo.com - for OLS information, and to
communicate any concerns or questions to the Board in writing or by email - oldlymeshores@yahoo.
com.
7. NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Paul Graml, Chairman of the Nominating Committee (other members = Terry Walsh and Mary
Finley), prefaced his presentation of the slate with comments about the difficult task the Committee
encountered this year, due to the number of good people stepping down. Charlie Beal and Wilson
Flynn are leaving after many years of devoted service on the Board, as is our long-time President,
Dave Woolley. Paul reminded attendees that service to the Association is voluntary, our system
depends on people willing to serve, and all should appreciate this.
He presented the slate for Officer and Board positions:
President - Paul Graml Board of Governors -
Vice-President - Terry Walsh Dino Genga (2010)
Secretary - Connie Gray Bill Hardy (2010)
Treasurer - Anne Petit Conway Gil Soucie (2009)
Mark Phelan (2008)
There were no nominations from the floor. Barbara Beal called for a standing ovation for Dave
Woolley, in gratitude for his dedication to the Association.
MOTION - to approve the slate as presented - PASSED
8. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Beach photos - Sally Howley announced that she has copies of David Wheeler’s panoramic view
of Old Lyme Shores available for sale at $30. She also said a new photo by David will be available
next month - an aerial view of Old Lyme Shores - she doesn’t yet know the price.
b. In Memoriam - Sally also thanked everyone for the tremendous outpouring of sympathy and
support, in the recent loss of her aunt, Margaret White, and said that substantial donations have
enabled the family to plan the establishment of a Old Lyme Shores memorial fund in remembrance of
Margaret.
c. Ballfield - Paul Rowean said that since the last Association discussion of the possible sale of this
property, several questions have been raised and the Board is working on these issues.
d. Rock & Roll Concert - Michael Cleary’s band will play here on Saturday, August 11.
e. Boats/Watercraft - David Richardson had questions about signs indicating where various types of
watercraft are allowed - inflatables, hard craft, kayaks, etc. - Paul Graml said that where each of
these is allowed to be stored and launched is just the opposite of what David said. The Ordinances
clearly define these locations.
f. Security support - Dave Woolley expressed appreciation to the Finleys for their generosity in
providing bathroom facilities, bottled water, and other comforts to security personnel. There was a
round of applause.
g. Stickers - Mary Finley announced that she has a supply of beach stickers for members’ cars.
h. Directory - Dave Woolley thanked Barbara Beal for all of her efforts in producing, updating, and
distributing the Old Lyme Shores Directory. He said that Maura Graml has agreed to take over this
job.
i. Qualification for Officer or Board positions - In response to Mary Miles’ inquiry, Paul Graml
discussed procedures involved in selecting candidates for office. He explained that our Charter
(1947) prohibits anyone from being an Officer or Board Member if his or her name is not on the deed
- if the property is in the name of a corporation or trust or some other entity, rather than in the owner’
s name, the owner cannot be an Officer or Board member.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 AM
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING - Saturday, June 9, 2007, at 9:00 AM, at Dave Woolley’s
house, 9 Bellaire Road, Old Lyme
Attendees: Dave Woolley, Paul Graml, Charlie Beal, Mary Finley, Dino Genga, Paul Rowean, Anne
Conway, Connie Gray
Absentees: Wilson Flynn, Terry Walsh
The meeting was called to order at 9:10 AM by President Dave Woolley.
1. DRAINAGE PIPE PLUGGED
Dave Woolleyreported that the drainage pipe is plugged at 59 Sea Spray. It is a problem of roots,
and we hope that Shoreline Sanitation can fix it.
2. CORRECTIONS TO MINUTES OF BOARD MEETING 5/29/07
a. Item 6 -Water PipeProject Status
Dino Genga asked that the word “indefinitely” be deleted, in regard to CT Water Company’s offer to
replace pipes on Brightwater Road.
b. Item 8 - Nominating Commitee
Paul Graml requested the following additions to the minutes:
1) Dave Woolley was nominated for another one-year term as President and declined the nomination.
2) Anne Conway accepted nomination for one-year term as Treasurer.
3) Connie Gray accepted nomination for one-year term as Secretary.
4) Charlie Beal announced his resignation from the Board after seven years of service, effective July
1, 2007 (two years remaining in his term).
3. TREASURER’S REPORT
Anne Conway announced that we currently have $6,600 in checking account and $17,218.15 in
savings.
4. ATHLETIC FIELD MOWING
Nickerson has the contract to mow the ballfield and agreed to charge $150 per mowing, $25 less
than last year.
Kevin Reynolds got new equipment and mowed the ballfield once this spring, but has not yet
submitted a bill.
5. PATAFIO BUSHES
On Sunday, May 29, Dave Woolley and Dino Genga met with Dr. & Mrs. Patafio and took them to
view some properties on Brightwater where overgrown bushes have been cut back extensively and
have survived very nicely and are thriving. The Patafios know our rules about a 4' height limit
between properties - they were given a copy of our Rules & Regulations some time ago - but
apparently they believe they’re grandfathered and can keep the high bushes because the bushes
were the same when they bought their home as they are now. They requested representation from
the Board next time their landscaper comes. Dave and Dino will be there. Patafios indicated some
willingness to cooperate in improving visibility for Farrellys backing out of their driveway and in
providing more space between their bushes and Farrelly’s house. But regarding the third problem,
blockage of Farrelly’s view of the flat rocks from their porch, Patafios have not exhibited any
indication of compliance with the rules.
6. TOM LALLY’S REQUEST FOR DRAINAGE ASSISTANCE
Tom Lally, new owner of 54 Sea Spray, has requested that the Association to run the drainage pipe
about 75 feet further, to alleviate the drainage problem on his property. Dave Woolley and Charlie
Beal visited Tom and viewed the situation. Dave Woolley feels extending the pipe would not solve
Lally’s problem. His property is flat and below sea level, and skunk cabbage is growing at the back
of his lot, because of all the flooding from storms. On his border with Howley’s, next door at 60 Sea
Spray, the drain works OK. His problem apparently is a septic system problem - failed two septic
tests in conjunction with his recent purchase of the property. Tom made two further requests: that
the Association open a clogged pipe, which Charlie found does not exist, and that the Association
remove the growth between his property and properties behind him.
MOTION - that the Board reject Tom Lally’s request for assistance with his drainage problem -
PASSED
Other residents have handled drainage problems of this type themselves and in cooperation with
neighbors on abutting properties sharing the same problem. It is not within the Board’s purview to
clean out drainage ditches between properties. Dave will inform Tom, in person or by telephone, of
the Board’s decision.
7. BUDGET FOR 7/1/07 - 6/30/08 FISCAL YEAR
We are ending the current fiscal year with savings of almost $11,000. We show no interest income
because bank fees more than wiped out the $51.75 earned in interest. One reason for Security
going over budget was that we paid double time for the July 4th holiday. It was suggested that the
title of the middle column on the budget report be changed from “2006-07 Estimated” to “Actual -
5/31/07.” Other observations on the Budget:
a. Paul Rowean said the $11,432 in “Savings” in the proposed 2007-08 budget actually should be
$22,000.
b. The $2,000 for “Leveling,” in the middle column (“Actual”) should be $5625.
c. Charlie pointed out that figures in the first column must be the same as in the Budget approved at
last year’s Annual Meeting. Paul said he would fix discrepancies.
d. Paul Graml suggested that more should be put into various accounts and less be projected as
“Savings” - beef up some line items and decrease “Savings” so that the membership isn’t
disturbed to see a lot of items over budget at the end of the year.
e. Paul Rowean said they are trying to eliminate the “Miscellaneous” category, but we seem to need
it to cover items that are difficult to anticipate or classify. The $8800 in this year’s “Actual”
was for engineering test borings and reports. There was discussion of changing
“Miscellaneous” to “Special Projects” or “Special Disbursements.” Dave suggested keeping
“Miscellaneous.”
f. Dino and Paul Graml praised Paul Rowean and Anne for their good work on this budget.
8. AGREEMENT WITH ATTORNEY BILL McCOY
Paul Graml reported that he signed the agreement with Bill McCoy, approved at last Board Meeting,
and forwarded it to him for signature and action. So far, he’s heard or received nothing in return
from Atty. McCoy. Paul is certain that Atty. McCoy will have nothing ready for our Annual Meeting
next Saturday - no review of and final version of or Ordinances, no review of our Charter for options
for raising money, and no review of the ballfield deed and relevant recommendations.
9. NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Paul Graml, Chairman, submitted the following slate of nominations for 2007-08:
President - Paul Graml Board of Governors:
Vice-President - Terry Walsh Dino Genga(2010)
Secretary - Connie Gray Bill Hardy(2010)-to replace W. Flynn
Treasurer - Anne Conway Gil Soucie(2009)-to replace C.
Beal Mark Phelan(2008)-to replace T. Walsh
MOTION - to accept the slate as presented - PASSED
The Board also approved Anne Conway as Tax Collector for 2007-08.
10. OTHER BUSINESS
a. B & L Construction
Dave has been unable to reach them regarding repair of roads.
b. Phelan Request
Dino reported that although Harry Plaut originally said he would do the requested work for at no cost
to us, he now says that the job is much more involved than he previously thought and he will
have to charge us. There are rocks under the sand in that area (Sea Spray end of our beach);
Harry doesn’t think they were there last year.
Mary Finley said the job requires a backhoe, not just a bulldozer.
c. Beach Buoys and Swim Line
Harry Plaut is now licensed to handle this job. His work will be closely monitored by DEP. Any
missing equipment (buoys, sections of swim line, sea anchors) will have to be replaced.
d. Federation of Beaches
Dave noted that we need a representative (and alternate?) to attend Federation meetings. Meetings
are held at the Shoreline Community Center on the 4th Saturday of June, August, November,
and April.
e. Monitoring Beach Cleaning
As mentioned at last Board meeting, George Finley and Frank Farrelly have offered to monitor
beach cleaning, keeping track of what is done and when. Mary Finley said that they need a copy
of Harry Plaut’s schedule so they can do this job.
f. Beach Movies & Other Jobs
Kevin Reynolds is hoping to do the beach movies again this year, but if his job at Foxwoods conflicts
at times, we need a back-up person. Kevin got $30 weekly (or $35, according to BOG minutes
of 4/29/07) last year for the movies (no pay if no movie is shown - bad weather). There was
discussion of what to pay T.C. Nixon if he does movies when Kevin is unavailable, and also what
to pay for moving beach trash barrels up and back down twice weekly for collection (takes about
one hour) and moving the “open street” signs and cement-based stop sign weekly (takes one to
two hours). One figure discussed was $40 weekly, and Anne stressed that she prefers to pay
weekly.
g. Open Streets
Mary Finley pointed out how costly it would be to have all streets open, with guards, for the entire
Fourth of July week. She suggested doing this only three days - Saturday, June 30, Sunday,
July 1, and Wednesday, July 4 and the Board agreed on this. The rest of that week (June 30 -
July 7), Sea Spray will be the open street, and the previous week (first week of guard service),
Billow will be open.
h. Night Guard for Edgelea
Michael Halloran has requested that we share one of our night guards with Edgelea. The Board
discussed ramifications of this and agreed that Edgelea should get its own guard.
i. Beach Trash Barrels
Anne reported that some people have complained about having two trash barrels at each street on
the beach - they think they’re unattractive. Dave said sometimes they are all filled and
sometimes they are not.
j. Association Information for New Owners
Anne suggested that we provide new owners with a package of information (beach rules,
ordinances, directory, etc). The new owners of Rita Flanigan’s house (60 Saltaire) didn’t
know about our “hammer law.” The Board agreed that this is a good idea and suggested that
we ask for a volunteer to be a kind of “Social Chairman” who would handle this and related
duties. Paul Graml noted that his wife Maura is taking over from Barbara Beal the directory
job and will produce an update addendum as soon as possible.
k. Annual Meeting
Paul Rowean asked about presentation of the Budget at the Annual Meeting. The Board agreed
that he should project the Budget on a screen up front (need to notify the school that this is
needed?) and he will also distribute copies of the Budget to attendees. All agreed that in the
future we should strive to send copies of the Budget to owners with the Call to the meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:10 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
OLD LYME SHORES BEACH ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING -Sunday, May 27, 2007, at 9:00 AM, at Dave Woolley’s house,
9 Bellaire Road, Old Lyme
Attendees: Dave Woolley, Paul Graml, Charlie Beal, Dino Genga, Terry Walsh, Paul Rowean, Anne
Conway, Connie Gray
Absentees: Mary Finley, Wilson Flynn,
The meeting was called to order at 9:10 AM by President Dave Woolley.
1. OPEN STREET CALENDAR
All streets will be open June 30 - July 6 (holiday week). Pat Leonardi on Brightwater has requested
that Brightwater be closed on Saturday, July 7 (large family gathering), so we will start the open
street schedule with Saltaire , as follows:
July 7 - 14 = Saltaire August 4 - 11 = Saltaire
July 14 - 21 = Brightwater August 11 - 18 = Brightwater
July 21 - 28 = Billow August 18 - 25 = Billow
July 28 - August 4 = Sea Spray August 25 - September 1 = Sea Spray
Guard service will begin Saturday, June 23 (correction to minutes of 4/29/07 Board meeting).
2. ROCK & ROLL BAND CONCERT
The Board discussed a proposal to have Michael Cleary’s rock & roll band perform at our beach this
summer. The only cost is $1,000 to rent sound equipment. Matt Merritt and David French have
offered to pay half and the Association is being asked to pay the balance of $500. They have given
us several dates to consider. Julia Nixon has booked String of Pearls to play here on July 14 for
$550 (even though she was told last year not to do this without Board authorization). Several
opinions were expressed - Paul Rowean agreed with Dino Genga that String of Pearls sounds like
funeral music, whereas Charlie Beal said he didn’t believe the rock & roll concert would appeal to the
bulk of an audience here at Old Lyme Shores.
MOTION - that we accept the offer and pay $500 toward the Cleary band concert (M. Merritt and D.
French to pay the remaining $500), with the date to be determined at a later time - PASSED
3. BEACH ISSUES
a. Sand Build-up
Dino said he would ask Harry Plaut to accompany him and Dave to look at the sand situation in front
of the Phelan’s property, to see if Harry can level it off where it has built up so high in front of the sea
wall.
b. Patafio Bushes
Dave said he is going to call the Patafios, who are here now, to ask them to take a look with him at a
few places here where overgrown bushes have been cut way back and are thriving - at the Costello,
Anderson, and Symon properties on Brightwater.
c. Drainage
Charlie Beal reported on the significant flooding from storms this spring and distributed photos he
took after the March 2 and March 26 deluges. He himself cleaned out the drainage pipe, and he
called First Selectman Tim Griswold, who was away on vacation, and John Roche, head of Old Lyme
Public Works. He also talked to Joel Weisman of Old Colony, who viewed the situation. Charlie also
had pictures from the April 15-16 Northeaster, after which the drainage pipe was completely
submerged and could not be seen. Charlie says one person should be assigned to keep an eye on
these things. He’s been doing it voluntarily, but we need a program of maintenance, with someone
who will walk by regularly and check the drainage pipe. Charlie will continue to do this until someone
is appointed. He also stated that Old Colony should share with us the cost of having this person
monitor the situation and keep the drain clear.
John Roche told Charlie last year that it is his (Roche’s) responsibility to keep that pipe open and
running.
But Dave Woolley said it will be at least a year or two before the Town actually comes up with money
to help alleviate these problems. The newest drain that we put in is not running, according to Dave,
and we will pay Bob Swaney to repair this broken drain, and where a truck damaged a lawn also
needs repair. Plus there is a closed septic tank far down on Sea Spray that is leaking and needs
attention.
Dave said that a letter to John Roche may be the next step to be taken in dealing with the Sheffield
Brook flooding and drainage problem.
4. ATHLETIC FIELD MOWING CONTRACT
Paul Graml has spoken to Kevin Reynolds, whose bid to mow the ballfield is lower than last year’s
vendor (Nickerson). Kevin has bought new mowing equipment and also would like to do additional
maintenance work for us. Last summer we spent $1050 on mowing of the ballfield (six mowings
@$175 in current year budget), plus three mowings prior to June 30, 2006.
MOTION - that we stay with Nickerson for mowing of the ballfield this summer, try to get him to lower
his price, and give other maintenance jobs (painting of benches, etc.) to Kevin Reynolds - PASSED
5. ATTORNEY BILL McCOY
Paul Rowean said we need a lawyer and suggested that we engage Attorney Bill McCoy of
Uncasville, who has offered to reduce his regular fee of $250/hour to $200 for us. Paul said that two
issues demand immediate attention: what to do with the Gorton Avenue Ext. ballfield and the
question of raising money (what is allowed, according to our Charter). Paul said the ballfield is one
big lot, not two, and we need McCoy’s input on this and other matters. He proposed spending about
$2000 (ten hours of McCoy’s services) to have McCoy look into the ballfield and money-raising
issues, and Paul Graml suggested that we also have him look at our Ordinances (including height of
fences & bushes, encroachment issues, etc.).
MOTION - that we engage Attorney Bill McCoy as lawyer for the Board and for the Association and
that issues to be looked at by him first be pre-approved by the Board - PASSED
MOTION - that we have Attorney McCoy look at two issues - what does our Charter allow in terms of
raising money, and what are our options regarding the ballfield - at a cost not to exceed $2500 -
PASSED
Terry Walsh suggested looking into the possibility of using the ballfield as a parking lot this summer -
hiring someone to work down there directing cars and collecting fees. The Board raised some
questions regarding how this might affect our tax status and other issues, and Terry offered to look
into these matters.
MOTION - that we have Attorney McCoy review our Ordinances, at a cost not to exceed $1000 -
PASSED
Paul Graml will ask McCoy to try to complete this review before our June 16 Annual Meeting.
6.. WATER PIPE PROJECT - STATUS
According to Dino Genga, CT Water Company is willing to extend indefinitely its offer to replace the
pipes on Brightwater. They have put this project on hold, until the Association approves funding for
paving.
Dino will speak at the Annual Meeting on the status of this situation, reviewing the results of the test
borings and other related matters, but he will not put forth any new proposals at this time.
7. PROJECTED BUDGET - 7/1/07 - 6/30/08
Dave distributed copies of his budget draft for the 7/1/07 - 6/30/08 fiscal year. Paul Rowean offered
to produce a budget spreadsheet and have it ready to distribute at the Annual Meeting.
The Board discussed a few of the budget items. Charlie Beal noted that nothing was budgeted for
road maintenance, but some repairs are needed. He said lower Billow Road is especially bad and
someone could get hurt (a child on a scooter, for example) if their wheel caught in a crack or hole.
Paul Rowean offered to get quotes from four or five contractors for repairing the cracks and holes,
and $2000 was inserted in the 2008 budget draft under "Road Maintenance."
Under "Professional Fees," Dave explained that the $1200 current year figure represents two
Robinson & Cole bills, regarding the flat rocks, and a CPA bill for getting us on line. The $1675
current year item for Beach Manager was changed to $0, since we have had no Beach Manager this
year, and Paul Graml suggested eliminating this item and replacing it with "Beach Maintenance." The
$8800 under "Miscellaneous" reflects engineering fees and related costs.
The Board agreed to keep the mill rate at 1.68. Paul Graml asked what we ended up with as a
surplus balance for the current year (to be determined). There was some discussion of changing the
dates of our fiscal year, with Dave Woolley strongly in favor of retaining the July - June format.
8. REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Paul Graml, Chairman, reported that Wilson Flynn, whose Board term is expiring this year, has
chosen not to seek an additional term, after many years of valued service to the Association. The
Committee has nominated Bill Hardy to fill this position. Dino Genga, whose term also is expiring, is
interested in serving another three years. The Nominating Committee will have another meeting to
deal with remaining issues.
9. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Treasurer’s Report
Anne Conway reported that we have $17,176.44 in savings account and $9,295 in checking, with
$500 in current bills.
b. Next Board Meeting
Board of Governors will meet Sunday, June 3 at 6:00 PM at Dave Woolley’s house.
c. Budget Meeting
Thursday, May 31 at 6:00 PM at Paul Rowean’s house - Dave Woolley, Paul Rowean, and Anne
Conway will meet, to finalize the budget.
d. Aerial Photo
The Board approved Anne Conway’s request for permission to tell Julia Nixon that she will not be
given $350 for an aerial photo of Old Lyme Shores at low tide.
Anne said Julia also should be told not to book String of Pearls for next year, immediately following
their July 14 performance here.
e. Beach Movies
Kevin Reynolds will be asked to be in charge of Friday night beach movies again this year, with T.C.
Nixon as back-up.
f. Rock & Roll Concert
The Board decided on a date for this concert - Saturday, August 11.
g. Delinquent Taxes
Anne Conway mentioned that the owner of a small parcel at up at the corner of Canty and North
Lanes has not paid taxes in ten years - total owed, mostly interest, is just under $200.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:45 AM.
.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING -Sunday, April 29, 2007, at 9:00 AM, at Dave Woolley’s house,
9 Bellaire Road, Old Lyme
Attendees: Dave Woolley, Paul Graml, Mary Finley, Wilson Flynn, Dino Genga, Terry Walsh, Anne
Conway, Connie Gray
Absentees: Charlie Beal, Paul Rowean
The meeting was called to order at 9:05 AM by President Dave Woolley.
1. GUARD SERVICE
Mary Finley expressed satisfaction with last year’s service provided by Ace Security and the Board
agreed. She wants to make arrangements with them for this year and will request certain personnel
that were particularly effective. It was noted that night service was especially good last summer.
MOTION - to engage Ace Security for Summer 2007 - PASSED
Mary said that there will be a slight increase in cost this year. She will tell Ace that we need extra
guards for the 4th of July week, with all four roads open. Guard service will commence on Saturday,
June 30.
2. PATAFIO SHRUBBERY/BEACH RULES
Dave Woolley reviewed the Patafio situation. Paul Rowean met with the Patafios on September 8,
2006, and asked them to cut back shrubbery to 50% of present height and cut back from the road.
Nothing happened and Dave wrote them another letter on November 22, 2006. They responded in
January, 2007, with copies of their landscaper’s bills and assurance that the bushes are maintained
at a level to keep them healthy and preserve their integrity. Dave said they will be advised to look at
bushes at 35 Brightwater and at 27 Brightwater; both were cut back considerably and are very
healthy. Dino Genga said that according to specialists at Salem Country Gardens, privet hedges can
be cut back any amount at any time and they do very well - they’re indestructible. Frank Farrelly,
next door to Patafio, is very upset that nothing yet has happened to correct this problem.
Paul Graml suggested that we postpone further communication with Patafios until revised beach
rules are in place (covering bushes, fences, etc. - height limits). Paul and Dino met last week with
William McCoy, attorney from Uncasville who has experience with beach associations, towns, land
use issues, etc. He will work for us on an hourly basis at a discounted rate ($250/hour = his regular
rate) and his first assignment will be reviewing our ordinances. When this task is completed, then we
should get back to the Patafios.
3. MARK PHELAN LETTERS
Dave has received two letters from owner Mark Phelan (77 Sea Spray), one in January after the town
approved his dormer project, and also expressing his objection to the dumping of seaweed near his
house, and another in April regarding his previous concerns (seaweed, boats parked on the beach -
hazardous during storms, etc.). Dino said that beach cleaner Harry Plaut will no longer dump
seaweed on the beach - just over the fence from Old Lyme Shores. Dino met with Harry in November
to review his performance last summer and Harry said seaweed will be hauled away to the dump
daily.
Paul Graml will make sure that the revised ordinances include boat regulations - which kinds of boats
are to be parked where, etc.
4. BOAT REGISTRATION
Dave suggested that we might want to ask boat owners to register their boats with the Association so
that we have a record of owners, who are responsible for removing boats by November 1.
5. SWIM LINE INSTALLATION AND PERMIT/RAFT PERMIT/BEACH MAINTENANCE
Harry Plaut is now licensed to install the swim line. Dave said we need to replace a few sections of
the line that are missing. Dino noted that, according to Harry, we need a raft permit only if the raft is
located outside the swim line.
Al Bond did some beach work last week with his bulldozer, grading the sand and clearing some litter.
Dino said that we pay Harry to do this kind of work and there should be some coordination regarding
his and Al Bond’s services.
Dino also noted that the town is now charging Harry to dump seaweed, so we need to amend his
contract to reflect this additional cost.
Frank Farrelly and George Finley have offered to monitor beach cleaning this year, keeping track of
what is done and when it is done.
Ours will be the first beach cleaned daily in July and August - first on Harry’s schedule - and he will
be bringing a small trailer, parking it at the Saltaire ramp, and hauling it off each day to the dump. On
days when the dump is closed, he will park the trailer down at the ballfield, close to the tracks and
covered with a tarp.
6.. WATER PIPES - CONNECTICUT WATER COMPANY
Dino said that pipe replacement has been cancelled for this year, but that CT Water says they could
include it in their budget for next year. We paid $6,000 for the survey of Brightwater Road - test
borings went down about six feet part way down Brightwater , and approximately from Dino’s house
on down the borings were only about four feet deep, because of ledge.
Dino noted that this month marks the 80th birthday of our water pipes - installed in April, 1927 - and
concluded with the observations that CT Water doesn’t want to hear from us until we have the money
to proceed with their plans.
7. ANNUAL MEETING
The Annual Meeting will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, June 16, 2007, at Mile Creek School.
8. AUTO STICKERS
We will use the same stickers as last year. Mary said we still have about one-third of the original
supply, which should be sufficient.
9. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Flooding
Dave said that in spite of the very wet winter, we can consider ourselves lucky compared to some
other beaches that suffered much more damage. He said that the town is applying for a grant of less
than $50,000 to work on drainage problems in the Sheffield Brook area. Mr. Deleo at 73 Sea Spray
has to have his septic system pumped every time we have heavy rain and is threatening to sue the
town, Old Lyme Shore, and Old Colony. Tom Lally, who is purchasing 54 Sea Spray, wants to talk to
us about standing water in his back yard, which also occurs at George Howley’s next door. Paul
Graml noted that drainage problems are Charlie Beal’s domain and Dave said he will speak to
Charlie about these issues.
b. Trash cans
Mary Finley suggested that we pay someone to put the beach trash barrels up on the pavement for
trash collection twice a week and then back down on the sand, plus open and close the gates three
times a week (including Tuesdays for recyclables) for the trucks to come in. Kevin Reynolds has
been getting $35 per week for doing the Friday night movies; we will ask if he wants to continue
handling this job (right of first refusal) and also take on the trash duties. Another possible candidate
is T.C. Nixon.
c. Treasurer’s Report
Anne Conway reported that we have $17,176 in savings and $10,000 in our checking account.
Anne proposed that the Association reimburse the Finleys for water provided to the guards. The
Board agreed with this suggestion.
d. Nominating Committee
Paul Graml will head the Nominating Committee; other members will be Mary Finley and Terry Walsh.
Board members whose terms are expiring this year are Dino Genga and Wilson Flynn. Interest in
joining the Board has been shown by Mark Phelan, Gil Soucie, and Julia Nixon. Anyone wanting to be
considered for election should notify a Board member or Officer in writing.
e. South Lyme Property Owners’ lawsuit
Anne Conway asked if there was any news and Dave said that there is hope that by November there
will be some resolution in negotiations between this group and the Town of Old Lyme.
f. Cracks in the road
Mary Finley reported that there are large cracks in the pavement on Sea Lane in the area of her
property and the Farrelly’s. Dave said that this should be patched before the Annual Meeting.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:25 AM.
.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary(See attached file: BoardMtg4-29-07.wpd)
1. BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING - Saturday, October 7, 2006, at 9:00 AM, at Dave Woolley’s
house, 9 Bellaire Road, Old Lyme
Attendees: Dave Woolley, Paul Graml, Charlie Beal, Mary Finley, Wilson Flynn, Terry Walsh, Dino
Genga, Paul Rowean
Absentees: Anne Conway, Connie Gray
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by President Dave Woolley.
1. PATAFIO BUSHES
Paul Rowean reported that he met with Dr. and Mrs. Patafio the day following the last Board of
Governors meeting. He asked them to cut back their bushes to 50% of the present height and cut
them back from the road. They said that they would and that their landscaper was coming the next
week. Paul said that he reported on his Patafio visit to the Farrellys the next day. Mrs. Farrelly said
she hoped the deep cutting would happen.
MOTION - that the President write a letter to the Patafios requesting their cooperation - PASSED
2. BEACH ORDINANCES
MOTION - to request paid services of Attorney Anita Schepker in reviewing the beach ordinances -
PASSED
3. BEACH CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Dino Genga reported on the end-of-season review of services by Harry Plaut. Problems were
discussed regarding beach cleaning outside the prescribed hours, storage of reclaimed seaweed on
the beach, and availability of back-up cleaning personnel.
Harry Plaut recommended purchase and installation of two snow fences to hold back beach sand at
Billow (150 feet) and at Sea Spray (100 feet).
MOTION - to purchase the snow fences recommended by Mr. Plaut at a cost of $602, plus $250 for
installation - PASSED
4. VENDOR INSURANCE
Wilson Flynn recommended that all vendors provide proof of insurance for next year and the naming
of Old Lyme Shores Beach Association as insured. It was recommended that next year the Treasurer
hold all contracts and insurance forms.
5. PAVING/PIPES PROJECT UPDATE
a. Road Report Being Prepared
At the June meeting, the Association authorized road boring samples and site work to determine
conditions that would impact paving. This has been done and the report being prepared will itemize
auger rejection and will be delivered soon by Dave Annino.
b. Letter to Connecticut Water Company
Dino Genga reported a letter was written to the Connecticut Water Company advising that Old Lyme
Shores had not obtained approval of financing for the Brightwater project proposed for March, 2007.
The letter had a request as to whether CT Water would offer the same plan in Fall, 2007 or Spring,
2008.
c. Engineering Plan
The next step is to prepare engineering plans. It was stated that Old Lyme Shores would do the
engineering plan for paving and CT Water would do the plan for water pipe installation. It was
commented that Gil Soucie, at the June, 2006 Annual Meeting, had confirmed support for Old Lyme
Shores to spend $22,000 for the engineering plan.
d. Meeting with Connecticut Water Company
Dino said he would set up a new meeting with CT Water. It will include Joe Wrenn, Bill Randazzo (40
Sea Spray), and other Old Lyme Shores representatives. Dave Woolley asked to attend. Old Lyme
Shores has been in CT Water’s budget for Spring, 2007.
e. Recommendations
Wilson Flynn said Old Lyme Shores needs legal counsel to review the plans, as oversight for OLS
volunteers. Paul Graml stated it was the right thing to do to move ahead with the $22,000
engineering job.
6.. LEGAL COUNSEL AT ASSOCIATION MEETINGS
As a result of opinions that the September 9th Fall Meeting did not go favorably with the Board of
Governors presentation, the Board discussed the need for legal counsel at Association meetings.
MOTION - to have paid legal counsel (Halloran and Sage) at the Spring, 2007 and Fall, 2007
Association Meetings, to prevent illegal votes and have voting by paper ballot - PASSED
Paul Graml said Old Lyme Shores needs a verbatim transcript and the meetings should be recorded.
7. FINANCING
a. Committee Meeting
Paul Rowean reported that he held a September 23 meeting of his financing committee. Attending
were Stan Ahlers, Stephen Gray, Gil Soucie, and Kathy Stalk. They received requests to join by
Mark Phelan and Cathy Petrillo, who were advised to join in the future. Paul said the committee plans
to discuss financial options for the future. Kathy Stalk will seek information from the DPUC, as will Gil
Soucie. The quitclaim documentation (when CT Water acquired our water system) will be shared with
Attorney Mike Halloran. It was stated that DPUC should have a grand plan for shoreline communities.
At this meeting, Stephen Gray said that to fix the deed to the Gorton Avenue Ext. ballfield property
(to remove the restriction of use) would require 192 resident signatures. He has approached a title
insurance company willing to provide an affidavit by the Board of Governors and signatures by a
majority of the Association.
b. Cell Tower Proposal
The Board discussed a proposal to generate income from the ballfield property by erecting a cell
tower on the site, and the idea was not considered worthy. Paul Graml said he would respond to an
e-mail from Mike Riggio (316 Saltaire), who suggested the cell tower.
c. Ballot on Ballfield Sale
The vote on selling the Gorton Avenue Ext. property was discussed. The vote was cancelled at the
September 9th Fall Meeting, before the vote deadline date of September 15. Ballots received prior to
September 9 were counted by Wilson Flynn and Mary Finley. The vote reported was 26 votes not to
sell and 46 votes in favor of selling the property. It was voted to remand the ballots to the custody of
the Secretary, Connie Gray.
8. FINANCIAL REPORTING
A memo calling for more complete financial reporting by the Treasurer at each Board of Governors
meeting was discussed. The suggestions were reported as helpful, and in the absence of the
Treasurer will be taken under advisement.
Dave Woolley said that the 6/30/06 Treasurer’s Report is not yet completed. It will be finalized by
early November.
.
Respectfully submitted,
David B. Woolley
Secretary Pro Tem
Old Lyme Shores Beach Association
FALL MEETING-Saturday, September 17, 2005 at 10:00 AM, at Mile Creek School
The meeting was called to order by President Dave Woolley. He reminded attendees of the Fall
Cocktail Party later today, from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Rowean’s, 29 Billow Road.
1. INTRODUCTION OF NEW OWNERS
Dave asked new OLS owners in attendance to introduce themselves
Kathy Schuster and her brother-305 Saltaire Drive
Sheila and Maureen Delutrie-310 Saltaire Drive
Jay and Cindy Moynihan-10 Billow Road
2. SUMMER 2006 ACTIVITIES
In the absence of Julia Nixon, Dave summarized activities that she planned for next
Summer.
Saturday, July 1 (rain date July 2)-Fourth of July celebration. Julia has already purchased
$2100 worth of prizes for $1,000.
Saturday, July 8-String of Pearls concert on the beach, from 7:30-9:00 PM. Julia proposes
that we invite Edge Lea and Old Colony to join us.
Saturday, August 5-Carousel Night at Sound View, from 6:00-6:45 PM
3. BOARD AND OFFICERS
Dave introduced members of the Board of Governors and Officers of the Association.
4. TREASURERS REPORT
There were no questions or comments on the Treasurer’s report.
MOTION-that the Treasurer’s Report be accepted-PASSED
5. 2005 A VERY BUSY SUMMER FOR THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Dave said that the Board has worked very hard this summer on the creation and revision
of Association documents: Bylaws, Ordinances and Description of Duties and
Responsibilities of Officers and Board Members. Dave has requested and received
comments and advice from resident lawyers F. Owen Eagan, Owen P. Eagan, Dan Lynch
and Joe Keefe, all of whom stress the need to preserve our Charter, approved 60 years
ago by the State Legislature. Any change to or conflict with this document could result in
loss of the Association’s taxing authority and its status as a private beach association.
6. NEW BOARD SUB-COMMITTEES
a. Capital Improvements Committee
Paul Rowean, chairman, briefly described how these sub-committees came to be. He
introduced the idea of sub-committees when it became evident that our President and
Vice-President were doing most of the work and there was a need to spread it out. The
Board come up with seven main areas of concern and narrowed this number down to
three- Capital Improvements (mainly roads), Security, and Beach Assets.
In addition to Terry Walsh, Board member, Paul’s committee includes Association members
Bill Hardy, a general contractor, and Loue Sanelli, retired from 30 years in the paving
business.
Upper Saltaire is going to be dug up and repaved, with a completion date of October 15
stipulated in the contract. We also need to seal serious cracks on the other roads as
soon as possible. According to Paul, it costs approximately $80,000 per road, from the
beach to the railroad tracks, so we must set aside funds each year to accomplish the job
of maintaining our roads.
Comment from the floor:
Bill Gardiner reminded us that about five years ago the Association approved establishing
a plan to do major work on all of our roads; It’s wise to have a plan and not just do
emergency patchwork. Bill also reminded us that a crowning problem needs to be
addressed, and Dave Woolley elaborated on this-crowning contributes to drainage and
other problems.
b. Security Committee
Wilson Flynn, chairman, said that he and Frank Adams, other board members of his
committee, have concluded that in general we’ve had a pretty good year. He has talked
with Kate Abbott, President of Miami Beach Association, about their guard situation, and
he plans to discuss the situation with other beach associations as well. He will post on
the OLS website any news about security, and he asked members to e-mail him or post on
the website their concerns, suggestions, etc. One idea he is presently considering is that
we might need one or two more guards on our staff. Wilson expects the committee to
finish its assessment of our security situation and needs, and he will post his findings on
the OLS website.
Comments from the floor:
1) Ed McSweegan is concerned about the amount we spend on security and what we get
for our money. He volunteered to be on the security committee and Wilson accepted his
offer.
2) Sally Howley suggested that we cut down on day guards-we don’t need so much
coverage during the day.
3) Mike Francoer said it is difficult to exit OLS safely-bushes and other obstructions make
it difficult to see. Wilson agreed and said that his committee would deal with this problem.
4) Barbara Beal, Sally Howley, and others complained that daytime guards do nothing.
Wilson said that his committee would deal with this often-heard comment.
5) Ed McSweegan observed that we spend 23% of our budget on security, whereas the
Town of Old Lyme spends only 2%. Wilson asked Ed to get him documentation of this
information. Dave Woolley, Board of Finance member who specializes in Town police
matters, said that with two resident troopers and six constables, Town security is
inadequate. When there is trouble, the constable on duty must call the Westbrook
Barracks to send troopers. Dave defended our night guards, stressing that we are lucky
to have them and should be grateful that they come back to work for us year after year.
6) Margaret White expressed the need for parents to discipline their children, particularly
regarding their misbehavior at the beach front where they throw sand, obstruct with their
bikes and scooters, and generally make the area a hazardous place to be.
Beach Assets Committee
Dino Genga, chairman, and Charlie Beal (Board member) comprise this committee. Dino
said their first project was to paint yellow lines at the beachfront of each street, to try and
make these areas more orderly.
Beach cleaning has been improved by bringing ina a second contractor, whose services
along with Nickerson’s have produced a cleaner beach. This second contractor is getting
a new machine which will do an even better job of sifting the sand (to 12 inches) and
removing debris.
The committee’s focus must be on what we need and what is most cost-effective in
maintaining and preserving our most valuable asset, the beach.
7. MODERNIZATION OF BOARD OF GOVERNORS OPERATIONS
Vice-President Paul Graml spoke about the need to update our Association rules and
procedures, as well as our operations and means of communications. Almost 60 years
since we were chartered, now is the time to update how we function.
a. Electronic Documents
Communication among Board members, Officers, and Association members has been
enhanced by use of electronic documents which make for more timely transmission of
information.
b. Website
Our website is www.oldlymeshores.com
c. Message board
We also have a message board for members to use to communicate to the Board:
oldlymeshores@yahoo.com
d. Logo
Paul explained that in order to be up-to-date and professional in our communications, we
need a logo. Copies of four proposed designs were sent to the membership with the call
to the meeting, and Paul encouraged anyone who has a new design to submit and send it
electronically to him or give him the graphics.
8. UPDATE-ASSOCIATON RULES AND PROCEEDURES
Paul said that a lawyer advising him on this project says that as a private beach
association we are very similar to a municipality, in that we have taxing authority, can
make rules to govern ourselves, etc. Therefore, we need to update our procedures
accordingly.
a. Bylaws
One way to update is to create bylaws-until now, we have had none. The Board and
Officers came up with the ideas and the lawyer drafted the language and injected the
necessary legal concepts. A limited supply of the most recent bylaws is available at this
meeting and soon will be available on the website.
Another update in our procedures is disposing of records more than seven years old; this
is the Federal standard and therefore we will follow it.
b. Job Descriptions
Paul said that the Board is working on this document elating to Association positions and
is almost finished.
c. Ordinances
This document is the least finished. Paul hopes to have the final version sent with the call
to the Annual Meeting next Spring.
Comments from the floor:
1Ed McSweegan questioned the method of electing Board of Governors members and
Officers. Paul Graml said that the method has not changed. The Association still elects its
Board and Officers-at the Annual meeting, the Nominating Committee presents the Board-
approved slate and the membership votes on the slate.
2) Ann Vaughan said it is uncomfortable to nominate from the floor at Association
meetings. She recommends that we have a paper ballot, listing all candidates who have
said they want to run. Paul Graml suggested that Ann make a motion, at the next Annual
Meeting, to have paper ballot elections.
3) Mary Miles asked that we more actively solicit candidates for BOG and Officer
positions. Paul Graml encouraged interested members to put in writing their interest in
running for office and the Board will consider them
MOTION-by George Howley-that our four resident attorneys review our proposed
documents (bylaws, etc) once more-seconded by Ed McSweegan.
Discussion of the motion:
1) Dave Woolley reiterated his previous mention that the four resident lawyers had
reviewed and offered their comments and advice on our documents. Joe Keefe put his
observations in the form of a four-page memo.
2) Paul Graml said that our Charter establishes that the Board, not the membership,
creates ordinances, bylaws, etc. and if the Association doesn’t like them, they propose
changes. In other words, the governing body makes the rules and if the governed don’t
like them, there is a procedure in place to change them. He added that the bylaws are in
place and if the Association wants to change the bylaws, they must get a two-thirds vote of
the entire Association at a special meeting. In view of all this, Paul thinks that the motion
on the floor is not legal.
GEORGE HOWLEY’S MOTION WAS NOT VOTED ON.
Further discussion:
1) Mary Finley What happens if someone refuses to obey an ordinance? Paul Graml said
that this question has been looked at by our resident lawyers. His feeling is that adhering
to the rules is largely voluntary.
2) Bill Gardiner said that we should remove Ordinances that are unenforceable.
3) Frank Adams encouraged everyone to speak to the rule-breakers when you see them-
tell them that they are in violation. Perhaps they don’t know the rules-you’ve educated
them. Perhaps they don’t like the rules-at least you’ve let them know their “sins” are not
going unnoticed. Nothing ventured nothing gained-its everyone’s responsibility to try
and enforce rules compliance.
Someone else added that it is better to have some guidelines than no guidelines.
4) Dave Woolley mentioned that one ordinance was added not too long ago forbidding
leaving boats on the beach after November 1, and this was not enforced, in one case, this
past winter. But he intends to make sure it is enforced this year. He also asked for
opinions about the rules regarding trailers, commercial vehicles and trailers-do we want
them or not?
9. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Old Lyme Shores Directory
Barbara Beal requested that anyone with changes or additions to the directory contact
her. We are not going to print a new directory, but an addendum will be issued by next
spring.
Barbara also mentioned that her kayak has been removed from the Billow end of the
beach and asked for its return.
b. Old Lyme Shores Photo
Sally Howley said that she is ordering a new supply of the David Wheeler panoramic view
of our beach and anyone who wishes to purchase one should see or contact her.
c. Illegal Activity at 30 Billow Road
Carol Reardon said that the junk cars and trucks have returned to the Krueger property
and are being worked on. Owner Terry Dell’s son assured us that the offending vehicles
will be gone within a few days.
d. South Lyme Property Owners Lawsuit
George Finley asked for an update on the lawsuit filed by the SLPOA against the Town of
Old Lyme. Dave Woolley said that the SLPOA has run out of money and the lawsuit never
went to trial (court dates postponed several times). SLPOA is in negotiations with the
Town, and Dave thinks the negotiating will end with those who donated to the cause
getting some concessions regarding year-round occupancy, but he doesn’t know this for
sure.
e. Obstructions
John Rixon said that we should’t get bogged down in too much detail regarding visibility,
such as bushes on private property that obstruct driver’s ability to proceed safely.
f. Expression of Gratitude
Mike Francoeur called for a round of applause in gratitude to the Board for all its hard
work this year.
The meeting adjourned at 11:45 AM.
ANNUAL MEETING- Saturday, June 17, 2006, at 10:00 AM, at Mile Creek School
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by President Dave Woolley
1. TRIBUTE TO DECEASED
Dave Woolley read names of Old Lyme Shores (OLS) community members who have died in the past year: Anna
Boryczewski, Elgio DiRoberts, William and Eleanor Fitzgerald, Mildred Flynn, Carol McDonald, Marguerite McGrail,
Lorraine McVane, Don Powers, David Regan, Kathleen Ruff, Bob Sullivan, Vincent Supple, Sr. And Daniel Walsh.
Dave asked for a moment of silence in their memory and also in tribute to our troops abroad and especially to
those lost in the war.
2. SECURITY
Board member Mary Finley announced that OLS has hired a professional security service, Ace Security, Inc., for
the upcoming summer. She introduced David Vanasse, Chief Operating Officer of ACE Security, who gave an
overview of his, and his company’s background, operation, and mission. Mr. Vanasse has 35 years of
experience in security, retired after 10 years as police chief of the Town of Groton, and has been with Ace
Security for 13 months. Ace has been in business in CT for 26 years and engages primarily in year-round
assignments, but also does some seasonal work,(Hawks Nest, Point of Woods, Attawan Beach and others along
the shoreline all the way to New London). They are providing security for Foxwoods’ $800 million expansion
project for the next three years.
Ace guards are uniformed and state certified. In 2004, the State of CT upgraded requirements for security
guards, placing them under the Department of Public Safety and requiring that they successfully complete a
rigorous training program. Mr. Vanasse is an instructor in this program. They do extensive background checks
and exclude anyone with any criminal record. Security officers are not policemen and must never cross the line;
this is a fundamental rule that is stressed in training, that they not be overly aggressive. Their training also
focuses on the importance of communications in security work - communications among Ace personnel and
with their clientele. Ace supervisors and Mr. Vanasse monitor their work sites, unannounced, to assure that
guards are doing their jobs effectively.
Mr. Vanasse answered some questions from the floor:
• Guards will not be armed - they have no authority to carry weapons.
• There will be two daytime guards - one at the gate of the open road and one covering the site on foot.
• There will not be an Ace Security vehicle patrolling here. They do patrol by car at some work sites, but their
assignment here is not set up for this. If we wanted this it would cost more.
• The Ace guards will mostly be older people. Occasionally, there might be students - 3rd or 4th year criminal
justice students - but they must be very mature. On the whole, we can expect mostly older people.
Mr. Vanasse left, and at this time Dave Woolley introduced Officers and Board members. Mary Finley answered
a few more questions from the floor:
• Guards will start on Saturday, June 24, and their daytime hours will be 10 AM to 5 PM. Night hours will be 7
PM - 2 AM Sunday - Thursday and 8 PM - 3 AM Friday & Saturday.
• We are trying a new guard service this year because of the many complaints over the years about the need
for more effective guard performance, especially at the gate.
• New stickers for owners’ are being used this year. They are available at today’s meeting, and guards will
be distributing them. Mary advised that they be placed on the passenger side windshield, so guards can readily
see them. Stickers will be given to owners only, not to renters. Guards will have a list of owners and addresses
in order to check on all incoming vehicles without stickers (renters and guests).
3. BEACH CLEANING
Dave introduced Dino Genga. Dino and Charlie Beal comprised the Board’s Beach Assets Sub-committee. Dino
gave an overview of Harry Plout’s beach cleaning schedule. In May, he cleared the beach of winter debris and
groomed and sifted the sand, in preparation for the season opening. The beach is being cleaned 3 times a week
in June, daily in July and August, and weekly in September, according to Plout’s contract. Yesterday, three
trucks of seaweed were trucked away. They begin cleaning after 7 am and are off the beach by 9 am. Dino
asked that people not put chairs and other beach gear on the sand until after the cleaning is completed.
4. PHELAN REQUEST
Dave presented the request of Mark and MaryEllen Phelan that the Association issue a quit claim deed to
property to the north of and including the seawall in front of their home at 77 Sea Spray Road (650 feet plus the
seawall), to meet the town of Old Lyme Zoning requirements for a proposed addition and improvements to their
home. He introduced their attorney, John Bennet, in attendance at this meeting with the Phelan’s. Dave
summarized all of the safeguards that are in place, according to our attorney, Michael Cronin, who has
researched this matter thoroughly and recommends approval of the Phelan’s request.
MOTION- That Old Lyme Shores Beach Association (OLSBA) approve the Phelan’s request-PASSED
5. SUMMER 2006 BEACH ACTIVITIES
Dave invited Julia Nixon to preview upcoming beach activities.
• Saturday, July 1st , (Raindate July 2nd)- Fourth of July Parade assembles at 10 am in front of the Howley’s
house at 60 Sea Spray. Other highlights of the day include refreshments, sandcastle contest, and beach races.
Julia credited the Carousel owners for their generosity, once again, in providing prizes for these events at highly
discounted prices. She also invited Margaret White to be Grand Marshall again for this year’s parade.
• Saturday, July 8th- The String of Pearls Band Concert on the beach at Brightwater-7:30 pm to 9 pm. Julia
noted that consideration has been given to inviting Edge Lea and Old Colony to join us for this event, but Dave
Woolley said that input he has received favors keeping it to just OLS.
• Saturday, August 5th- OLS Carousel Night at Soundview- 6 pm to 6:45 pm.
6. REQUEST FOR TRAFFIC MIRROR
Dave Woolley introduced Board Member Terry Walsh, who has looked into the possibility of getting a traffic
mirror(s) to assist motorists and pedestrians in entering/crossing Rt. 156 from upper Brightwater (and perhaps
other OLS roads north of Rt. 156). This has been requested of residents of upper Brightwater. Terry reported
the Middletown Plate Glass sells these mirrors for $172 (18 inch diameter). But they do not install them, for
liability reasons. They suggest that we find a handy man who knows how to do this.
Response from the floor included the suggestion that we would need to check with our insurance company
regarding liability, and also we would need to deal with the State of Connecticut regarding procedures and
approvals needed, since state property is involved.
7. DRAINAGE COMMITTEE
Dave announced the Board is forming a committee to investigate drainage problems and propose
improvements. During heavy storms last fall, people were evacuated from OLS. Tom Lally’s car on Sea Spray
was destroyed by flooding and there was severe damage to the Duhaime house on Saltaire. Tina DeLeo on Sea
Spray noted that for the past 11 to 12 years, all of the excess water has ended up on her property, destroying
appliances and furnishing, etc. all because the road was not paved properly she said. Julia Duhaime Nixon has
done extensive research recently and has concluded that neither the town of Old Lyme nor the State of
Connecticut is going to volunteer assistance in correcting our drainage problems. Julia feels that we need to get
an attorney to work for us toward achieving effective drainage improvements.
8. WATER AND PAVING PROJECT
• Dino Genga-overview of water company plans and time table.
Dino narrated a power point presentation prepared by Paul Rowean to familiarize the Association with the
proposed project involving replacement of our ancient water pipes and paving of our roads. CT Water Co.
informed us several months ago that they anticipate that they will be able to begin replacing the pipes here at
OLS in the foreseeable future. This actually would be a continuation of the job that they began a few years ago
when they installed year round 8" pipes on upper Brightwater and on Sea Lane to supply fire hydrants required
by law. All the rest of OLS still has the seasonal 2"pipes. Dino pointed out that we have 192 homes here, with a
total market value in excess of 100 Million dollars. Year round pipes would increase each homes value by at
least $50,000, and we would end up with a total of 12 fire hydrants.
The water company’s original intention was to continue all the way down Brightwater with the 8" pipes (17 times
the area of the 2" pipes), but financial restraints forced them to put this project on hold. Now they are proposing
to resume the project, first by completing Brightwater and ultimately replacing all of the seasonal pipes here.
They would pay for everything, (pipes and installation) on Brightwater, except for paving, because this would be
a completion of what they had already begun. For the rest of the roads, they would pay only for the pipes and we
would have to cover installation costs plus paving. They propose a 5 year timetable, as follows:
Phase 1- Completion of Brightwater- by May 2007
Phase 2- Sea Spray- by 2008
Phase 3- Billow- 2009
Phase 4- Saltaire- 2010
Phase 5- Upper portions (North of Rt. 156)- 2011
• Civil Engineer
For a project of this magnitude, according to Dino, we need a civil engineer to oversee every stage from
preliminary planning to completion. He has been working with Joe Wrenn of Indigo Land Design (Middletown)
who oversaw Old Colony’s project last year and comes highly recommended by Old Colony. We have a proposal
from him for $22,000 for Phase 1; he would meet many times with the Board between now and September, if we
sign on with him.
• Paul Rowean- Comments and Observations
Paul continued the discussion, noting that these are very big issues that he and Dino have been investigating and
they need to know if the Association approves of what they have done so far and wants them to continue.
According to Paul, leaking pipes cause a constant flow of water on Brightwater in front of the McClure house.
We have all kinds of rocks, boulders and probably ledge under our roads and for years we have just paved over
all of these problems. Paul believes that now is the time to begin solving these problems. He has walked all of
our roads with Lou Sanelli, our resident paving expert, and with Allen Hull of B and L Paving, and both have
provided expert advice. Paul projects our total cost for this 5 year project to be more than 1 million dollars
($1,114,900+), according to the power point chart.
• Some questions and comments from the floor
Gil Soucie
Questioned the water company’s proposal that OLS should pay for everything-materials and installation-and
Paul Rowean responded that we are going to go after the water company to get them to cover these costs.
Pointed out that year round water does not guarantee year round occupancy. The town has labeled each
property as either seasonal or year round and violations in use could result in the town telling the water
company to turn off the water. He suggested that as we proceed with paving we should aim to make all roads
uniform in width.
Someone asked why we need to rip up the roads to put in new pipes. Pipes should be installed under the grass
adjacent to the roads which is Association owned property.
Roger Zito said the OLS is a seasonal beach community and should be kept that way. We do not need year
round water, and even if we have it, town approval is still needed for off season occupancy.
Stan Ahlers thinks that when CT Water Co. took ownership of our system, they agreed to assume responsibility
for future maintenance. We need to check with the DPUC on this.
Julia Nixon asked how this will be paid for. She is strongly opposed to owners being charged according to their
property’s assessment. Since the benefit is uniform for everyone, everyone should be charged to same
amount.
Bill Gardener just spent $4,000 for a well, he feels he will derive no benefit from year round pipes and does not
think that he should have to pay for them. Others pointed out that it is for the good of the entire community and
therefore, everyone is responsible for the cost.
Someone asked if the water company would install laterals- would this be part of the installation job- hook ups to
each house- or would individual have to arrange and pay for their own hook ups?
Gil Soucie said that we need to clarify the proxy voting process. If this issue is to be voted on during the fall
meeting, we need to clearly define who can be a proxy. One house, one vote- but who can vote?
Mark Phelan noted that we definitely need professional advice and direction in dealing with the water company.
MOTION- that the Association give a green light to Dino and Paul to continue their efforts on this project this
summer-PASSED
9. BUDGET
Paul Rowean discussed the proposed 2006- 2007 Association Budget-(displayed on the screen and copies
distributed as attendees arrived at today’s meeting) with a mill rate of 1.68. He pointed out that last year people
were very upset about sharply higher assessments due to the reevaluation and consequently, the mill rate was
set too low (1.25 mills).
MOTION- that the budget as presented by approved- PASSED
10. NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Paul Graml, Chairman of the Nominating Committee, other members Dino Genga and Terry Walsh, requested
that anyone wishing to be considered for candidacy for the BOG or an officer position advise the Board, in
writing, before the next annual meeting.
He presented the Committee’s slate for Board and Officer positions:
Mary Finley- 3 year Board term
Charlie Beal- 3 year Board term
David Woolley- President
Paul Graml- Vice President
Connie Gray- Secretary
Anne Petit Conway- Treasurer
Paul asked if there were any nominations from the floor. There were none.
MOTION- to accept the slate of the Nominating Committee as presented- PASSED
11. OTHER BUSINESS
• Sticker Distribution- Dave Woolley thanked Charlotte Genga and Maura Graml for their handling of the
distribution of stickers at this meeting.
• Association Directory- Barbara Beal requested that anyone wishing to add or change a listing in the
directory ask her for a form for this purpose, complete it and submit it to her and their addition or change will be
included in next year’s directory addendum.
The meeting was adjourned at 12 Noon.
Respectfully Submitted,
Constance L. Gray, Secretary
BOARD OF GOVERNORS MEETING - Sunday, August 20, 2006, at 9:00 AM, at Dave Woolley’s
house, 9 Bellaire Road, Old Lyme
Attendees: Dave Woolley, Paul Graml, Anne Conway, Wilson Flynn, Dino Genga, Terry
Walsh, Charlie Beal, Paul Rowean, Mary Finley, Connie Gray
1. WELCOME GUESTS
a. Frank Farrelly - two concerns:
1) Hedges
His neighbor’s (Patafio - 3 Sea Lane) hedges are vastly overgrown and the Patafios refuse
to direct their landscapist to cut them back . Since they were last trimmed, they have
grown 24" higher and 7" deeper, and they extend 4' into Frank’s property. They totally
block his ventilation and view, the side of his house and garage are green (he has to
power wash these surfaces), and Frank wants this problem remedied now. Two years ago,
Margaret Farrelly asked Cheryl Patafio to have the hedges cut back to regulation size and
nothing was done. Frank spoke to the landscapist, who said his order from the Patafios
was to trim only. The Patafio house apparently is for sale and Frank wants this issue
settled before the sale. He cannot use his side yard and cannot see through the hedges -
he wants his view restored and his side yard opened up.
2) Seaweed on the beach
Frank says the sand is beautiful but the seaweed is awful. Something needs to be done
about the beach cleaning procedure; the bulletin board notices request that people not
set up chairs and umbrellas on the sand until the cleaning is done (around 9 - 9:15 AM),
but there have been numerous occasions of beach cleaning being done in the afternoon,
long after beachgoers have settled in for the day. It was noted that in the last two days,
Harry Plaut has taken out 17 bucket loads (17,000 pounds) of seaweed, and that his
machine was disabled this past week and there were two days when he did not clean the
beach.
b. Bill Gardiner - golf carts:
Golf carts here are a problem, according to Bill, and he thinks we should do something
about them before a tragedy occurs. OLS members have been informed that golf
carts are illegal on our roads. Calling the police is about all we can do, but people don’t
want to report neighbors to the police. His neighbors across the street (#2 Sea Spray)
drive their cart to the beach with their cooler and park there, returning home only to
replenish their cooler contents and then back to the beach front - their cart is parked at
the beach 7-8 hours a day. Bill is bringing this issue to the Board to point out the
seriousness of the problem and to ask what the Board is going to do.
c. Board discussion and action:
After Frank and Bill left, the Board discussed the issues.
1) Patafio hedges
Mary Finley said that Cheryl Patafio was offended by Margaret Farrelly’s request two years
ago and that was the end of that. Paul Rowean said someone from the Board should
speak to the Patafios and offer a compromise. Dave Woolley strongly suggested that two
people should meet with the Patafios. Paul Graml and Paul Rowean offered to go, to
inform them that their hedges need to be cut back, for safety reasons and to restore the
neighbor’s view.
MOTION - that Paul Rowean and Paul Graml act as emissaries, meet with the Patafios, and
try to work out a compromise plan for their hedges - PASSED
2) Motorized vehicles
Mary Finley asked what we are going to do about the rapidly increasing number of
motorized scooters that are being parked near the bike racks at the beachfront.
Should we allow them to park there? Should we allow them on our roads?
MOTION - that we treat motorized scooters as motor vehicles and not allow them on our
roads or to be parked at the beachfront - PASSED
2. TREASURER’S REPORT
Anne Conway reported that we have $472 in savings account and $45,000 in checking
(with only one unpaid bill).
3. NEED FOR WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION
a.Winter storage
Dave Woolley distributed copies of a memo he has addressed to Dino Genga and other
BOG members, recommending that we get an itemized receipt signed by Harry Plaut for all
OLS equipment that Plaut stores for the winter (as per BOG-approved $800 contract with
Plaut), to safeguard our property.
Paul Rowean inquired about maintenance of traffic barriers - should he power wash the
barrier in front of his house on Billow Road? - Dave said yes.
b. Insurance file
Dave also recommended that we have on file copies of all of our vendors’ insurance and
that we be named as “additional insured” in each of these policies. This pertains to Harry
Plaut, the person who puts our raft in and out of the water, and anyone else with whom we
have a contract. We also must call each insurer and get confirmation that each policy is in
force and not being cancelled, These measures are necessary to cover ourselves and
protect our interests and investments.
c. Golf carts
Wilson said we also should get copies of golf cart owners’ insurance. Paul Graml said we
should not do this and we were also reminded that the Randazzo vehicle is not a golf cart.
MOTION - that Paul Graml draft another golf cart letter, as a follow-up to golf cart letter
sent to members with call to the Annual Meeting, distribute this draft by email to BOG for
approval, and then send it to golf cart owners - PASSED
4. ASSIGNMENT OF BOARD MEMBER AS DIRECTOR OF RECREATION
Julia Nixon wants the Board to assign one Board member as Director of Recreation. The
Board discussed this request and was not in favor of it. Paul Graml said Julia should give
the Board a list of her proposals and the Board can act on that.
5. BEACH CLEANING
There was discussion of Harry Plaut’s performance (mixed opinions) - he has been paid up
to date - what should we do now? Mary Finley said he needs to be closely supervised -
someone needs to “ride herd” over him. Paul Rowean and others suggested that we put
this matter aside for now and evaluate him at the end of the season, as per the terms of
our contract with him.
6. DRAINAGE REPORT
Charlie Beal expressed his gratitude that there have been no floods since he took on this
job as head of the Board drainage committee. He has talked to Old Colony people
involved with this issue and concluded that what is needed is a large pipe to empty into
the Sound, adequate to handle torrential storms, and the means to keep that pipe clear of
debris. He distributed copies of a letter he has drafted to First Selectman Tim Griswold
from Dave Woolley and Harry Plaut, presidents of Old Lyme Shores and Old Colony
respectively, requesting Town assistance with drainage problems at Sheffield Brook. He
read a document from January of this year, an agreement between the Town and Old
Colony regarding Sheffield Brook, which is good for one year. Now there is need for
further action in this matter.
MOTION - that Charlie is authorized to send this letter, once it is approved by Harry Plaut,
and that if there is any major change in its content he will bring it back to the Board for
approval before sending - PASSED
7. WATER AND PAVING REPORT
Dino Genga said that we have engaged the architectural firm to conduct Tests 1 and 2 and
we will need to pay them half ($4,000) in advance and half upon completion. In late
November, we will be ready to go out to bid for the contractor to do Brightwater. Joe
Wren will give CT Water Company a list of specifications - what must be the end result of
their work. They will have the road dug up and taken away, lay 8-inch pipes 5 feet deep,
and will cover with gravel. Joe Wren will also give our paving contractor specifications
for what is to be the end result of his work. We will seek three bids - from B & L,
Schumacher, and one other - for paving from 156 to the sea wall.
Dino met with Don Brodeur, Jr., who sold Sound View Improvement Company to CT Water
Company. CT Water was not exactly thrilled, according to Brodeur, but they were forced to
purchase by the DPUC. Brodeur also strongly suggested to Dino that we get Phase 1 done
now - take what we can get now - because CT Water Company is very difficult when it
comes to money, and their new vice-president is especially tight-fisted with the dollars.
Paul Rowean echoed Dino’s sense of urgency about moving right along and getting what
we can get from CT Water Company before they find a way to change their mind and hold
back. He also reported on his discussions with Gil Soucie who has done further research
on the ballfield property at 308 Gorton Avenue Extension.
8. FALL MEETING
Our Fall Meeting will be Saturday, September 9 at Mile Creek School. The Board
discussed Paul Rowean’s suggestions that we bring before the Fall Meeting the question
of making the ballfield property part of Old Lyme Shores, to enhance its marketability, and
also the thought that perhaps we should just resurface our other roads besides
Brightwater - tone down the proposed Phases beyond Phase 1 for now.
Relating to property sales, Terry Walsh mentioned that she has looked into the property
for sale on Shore Road (former Italian-American Club). She called the number on the sign
and got Dawn Root, at Old Lyme Seafood, who is part of a trust that owns the property for
sale. She wants to keep the property but is out-numbered by others in the trust who want
to sell it.
The Board discussed a format of having Dino, at the Fall Meeting, propose spending
$150,000 for the Phase 1 Brightwater Road project and then have Paul Rowean present
the prospect of selling the ballfield property for around $250,000. Paul Graml said the
Association should vote on these issues by a mail ballot, not at the Fall Meeting. And we
should explain that we are not abandoning “the grand plan”(all 5 Phases) presented at the
Annual Meeting; instead, we are simply modifying our approach so as to take one step at a
time - Brightwater now, the others later.
9. FOLLOW-UP MEETING AND VOTE DURING OCTOBER, 2006
Dave Woolley suggested that perhaps we should vote on the issues by mail and then
have another Association meeting at the end of October or early November.
Charlie Beal said that at the Fall Meeting we should vote on two proposals:
a. Brightwater Road project, at a cost not to exceed $150,000
b. Sale of the ballfield property
Also to be considered is the question of financing - special assessment or tax? - over a
two-year period, payments equal among all, or geared to property value?
It was proposed that Dave write the call to the Fall Meeting and agenda. Paul Rowean
wants Board approval of the agenda before it is sent out. Then, at the Fall Meeting, we
should tell attendees that when we have adequate information they will be sent a ballot
for voting by mail, one vote per household.
MOTION - that we present to the membership what we are proposing and tell them that
this will be followed by a mail ballot at a later date - PASSED
Paul Graml expressed his strong feeling that we should keep distinctly separate the two
issues of selling the ballfield and doing the Brightwater Road project and that a ballot
should be sent out immediately for a vote on selling the ballfield.
MOTION - that we send out a letter and ballot to the membership as soon as possible
regarding the sale of the ballfield - PASSED
10. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Minutes of previous meeting
Mary Finley requested a change in the minutes of the 7/20/06 Board Meeting - the cost of
mowing the ballfield property is $175, not $125 as recorded. The minutes were approved
as amended.
b. Easement Agreement
There was discussion of the question of building a walkway over in the flat rocks area, as
per the easement agreement. Paul Graml said that according to counsel, the easement
agreement dictates that we must build a walkway. Related considerations are whether we
should just leave it as it is and do nothing, or should we discuss the matter with the
Wainrights - do they want a walkway? Dave said there is a third option available: get an
amendment to the easement agreement, so we are no longer obligated to build a
walkway.
c. Open House
Anne Conway requested that the call to the Fall Meeting include, at the bottom, an
invitation to an Open House at the home of Anne & Jay Conway, 37 Billow Road, from 4 - 6:
30 PM on Saturday, September 9 - $5.00/person, plus a plate of hors d’oeuvres.
d. NEXT BOARD MEETING
The Board will meet at 6 PM on Friday, September 8, at Dave Woolley’s house.
The meeting was adjourned at 11:55 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Constance L. Gray
Secretary