Glenbrooke News

Editor’s note: All Candidates have been invited to submit their Candidates statement using the five questions asked by neighbors/readers. Margaret Nispel is the sixth and final  in this series on getting to know our candidates. All statements are also posted on navigational bar for review.

1) Why did you decide to run for the Board and what strengths/skills will you bring to the position?

Peter Gaffney recruited me by suggesting that his committee was looking for qualified residents to run for a position on the Board of Directors for the next election this summer. I considered this option for a few days and decided to submit my name.  I've had recent and similar experience as treasurer of the Board of Directors for 4 years at the condominium community where I was living in San Diego.  Duties included annual budget review, monitoring account payments and considering proposals for establishing new HOAssociation dues and determining what seemed best for our community.  My 40 years of extensive experience as a Real Estate Broker has afforded me insight to all aspects of the benefits of home ownership and the positives of planned communities. This Del Webb community looked very attractive as I was considering a life style move.  I'm finding the community warm and welcoming and I see the opportunity for property appreciation as the community grows.

2) Are you willing to hold monthly town hall meetings with residents to hear their concerns?

I certainly would consider having this type of meeting, BUT governing rules would have to be established: ie:one resident board member moderating or both; questions submitted in advance; Pulte attending?  And how would the results of such a meeting be communicated to all the residents.  I  was pleased to read the results of the latest Communication Survey, and realize the committee for communication improvement  has quite a few ideas to pursue for the betterment of the community.

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 worked directly with a large Southern California builder in sales, escrow and lending. My husband was a Real Estate Broker for this same Southern California builder and other developers for over 40 years of his life, and much of his association in this field was also a very prominent part of my life and career. Pulte is in the business of selling houses. I was in the same business for over 40 years. Experience in this field is important to understand motives. I can say I could probably hold my ground for the benefit of home owners when faced with Pulte opinions that would be placed for our review and certainly would not be intimidated by them.

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 not been provided a copy of the latest financial statement.  My recent move into Glenbrooke is probably the reason I didn't receive it in the mail.  I will pursue obtaining a copy and will report my review.  I am aware that the state has minimum requirements for reserve balances that have to be met.

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?

I was looking for a lifestyle change 3 years after becoming a widow and made the decision to move to Elk Grove Del Webb community of Glenbrooke..While on a cruise I met a lovely couple from Del Webb in Lincoln CA.  They loved their community and sold me on the benefits of Del Webb and while visiting my sister in Sacramento I decided Glenbrooke fit my plan. My move here is working out quite well so far.

My extensive Real Estate business experience was not just selling a house.  After meeting strangers and establish a trusting relationship with them, you then have to learn their housing preferences, negotiate contract terms, and assist them in reaching their goals not only in price and terms, but also the most critical aspect of timing.  Real Estate is really a people business, and also a problem solving business, the families you work with have to trust you.  I loved the challenges presented to me and have had a successful 40 year career helping families with one of the largest investments of their lives.  Since retiring last year, I now will have more time to pursue retirement activities afforded by Glenbrooke, make new friends, and take a trip or two every now and then.  Thank you for considering me as one of the new board members.