- By Peggy Perry -
Four of our neighbors have given extraordinary service for more than two years – as original members and officers of the Resident Council. As they prepare to retire at the end of the year, they met together to reminisce about the development of this UVTO governing body.
Originally identified by Marketing, the nine original Resident Council members were invited by Scott Polzin, in consultation with Warren Spieker. At the first meeting, these men and women met with Scott and Shelley Cunningham. They introduced themselves to one another, and asked "Now what?" Turning to the Bylaws of La Costa Glen as a guide, they explored interests and determined the four officers: Bill Marshall, Chair; Jack Darnielle, Vice Chair; Jean Bardgette, Secretary; and Pauline Donovan, Treasurer.
As an early item of business, Building Representatives were selected for twenty residence areas, with Council identifying and inviting the early representatives. Next came the establishment of resident committees, through volunteer sign-ups. While the committee structure has been modified over two years, especially with the recent addition of Budget and Finance (unique to UVTO among our sister communities), the foundation for the eight current committees that report to the Resident Council had been determined.
During 2008, establishing the Employee Appreciation Fund took many hours of deliberation, decisions and implementation, as did ways of determining what residents wanted in their community life. Five Resident Council members retired in December 2008, initiating the process of electing approximately half of the Council each year. The four officers remained on the Council and continued in the same leadership roles through 2009.
This year the Council turned to developing Bylaws through an ad hoc committee. Following adoption of the Bylaws, committee procedures were drafted and approved – with refinement on the agenda for 2010. Other accomplishments include encouraging openness and transparency in campus groups; the Budget and Finance Committee‘s work in cooperation with the owners to bring financial information to the residents; continuing improvements in food services; and a developing liaison with Oak View. While occasionally contentious, they agree that the Council has worked well together to establish a foundation for the future.
What will these four now do with their newly free hours? All agree on more family time! Bill plans to paint, golf, and stay involved in UVTO matters. Jack will continue teaching his Shakespeare class at the Senior Center, and will enjoy life in the community and at UVTO. Jean is committed to developing liaison with Oak View through the Health and Wellness Committee, plus doing needlework and reading. Pauline will be on the Food and Beverage Committee, will continue to write her autobiographical book and may work toward a PhD in psychology at CLU.
Thank you, retiring officers, for your gift of time and talent, given so generously to UVTO.