Dear Members,
Other than the good financial news contained in Tray’s recent 2013 Treasurer’s Reports, I am happy to say that there is not much to report about Smith Hui, Inc. for 2013!
In all seriousness, last year was a relatively uneventful but good year, financially speaking, for Smith Hui, Inc. Thanks to the addition of two new full members — Scott and Avari Tears — in the fall of 2012, Smith Hui collected a full year’s worth of dues from all 13 members, as well as a handful of outside rentals. In addition, other than some minor repairs, appliance replacements, and maintenance, it was not necessary for us to spend a significant amount on repairs or emergencies last year. Lastly, although it has been difficult to find reliable, inexpensive cleaning people in the Outer Banks, the cleaning service (Dottie Bielinski) we hired in 2012 worked very smoothly last year.
In 2013, the “Smith Hui Machine” hummed along quite efficiently without any major hiccups. Scheduling, billing, rentals, and cleaning all ran smoothly. Seeing that 2014 will most likely bring some major repair projects, it is a good thing we were able to perfect our procedures and put away some extra income!
As Tray outlined, we will be getting estimates for replacement of the irreparably damaged popcorn ceiling in the main living area and kitchen. Due to the inevitable mess this will create, it is probably prudent to remove the inoperable gas fireplace and frayed carpeting at the same time. I will get estimates during my stay next week for the ceiling project. Another problem Tray identified last summer is that the ceiling ventilation fans need to be replaced. Not surprising, as they are original! Also, funds will inevitably be dedicated to cutting back the ever growing vegetation from the perimeter of the house and the driveway.
Other news: Charter’s cable service has caught up with the digital age, so this week (today, in fact) a Charter Cable technician installed four new cable boxes to the existing cable outlets and televisions. Our expenses will go up a bit with this change — two of the boxes are free for six months, but we will incur new monthly fee for the updated system.
Before I close, let me recognize that, in 2013, several members took time out of their vacations to organize, clean, replace, and do minor repairs. The Board is grateful for any effort owners take to beautify, update, and maintain our home. Your dedication to the success of our family corporation is always sincerely appreciated! Please take a look at the updated Owner Procedures (attached to this email) and do not hesitate to contact me or the other board members with any questions or comments.
Very truly yours,
Lisa Smith Molinari
President, Smith Hui, Inc.