Glenbrooke News

Editor’s note: All six Candidates have been invited to participate in this discussion by submitting their Candidates statement using the following five questions asked by our neighbors/readers.  Kathy Powell was the first to respond and kicks off the series. 1) Why did you decide to run for the Board and what strengths/skills will you bring to the position?

My strengths are that I have a significant amount of management experience. This includes, hiring, and firing, staff building, program management, working with state, local and federal regulations, planning finances for specific programs, following regulations and guidelines while trying to update problem areas. My philosophy of management is this: Running a Homeowner's Association. This is a business. While this is true, the individuals who makeup the association, need to be heard and informed about whatever their concerns are. I expect that the Pulte representatives should be willing to come with information, local and state laws and regulations and be able to communicate the findings to homeowners. Not everyone will be satisfied, but at least they can be informed.

2) Are you willing to hold monthly town hall meetings with residents to hear their concerns?
Yes, I certainly would. I think that poor communication and lack of accurate information is the initial cause of prior unhappiness on the part of homeowners. I would ask that people come prepared with their questions and concerns, and with as much relevant information as they. Objective data outweighs gossip and emotional reactions every time.

3)  Do you feel you can publicly voice the interests of the residents and not be intimidated by the majority three Pulte employees?

I have been in management for many years in dealing with mental health, and the California Department of Corrections at the local, state and federal levels. I am not intimidated by anyone, and see no reason that business has to be conducted in a manner that results in conflict. There are times one can change things, and there are times when one cannot. It is important to know the difference, and why they are so.

4) Have you reviewed the Association's finances, and do you think the assessments and funding for reserves are set at an appropriate level?

I have reviewed the financial statements. I have also talked by telephone to the financial people. I think that a number of things having to do with finances, need a closer look, without making any assumptions prior to a fact-finding mission

5) Thank you for your willingness to serve and the opportunity to get to know you better.  Is there anything else you would like readers to know about you?

It is my opinion that staff at the clubhouse are not well informed, reluctant to give information and at times, disrespectful to homeowners. I am aware of some of the reasons for this, but not all the reasons. I think that the interactions at the clubhouse are important, as that is where most people go to get information. There is certainly a lack of consistency in handling requests, or giving information.