Happy New Year, Lovely Lakers!

It is always a joy to present the Year in Review! Reflecting on 2024, we are excited to share that our efforts have centered around proactive solutions that set us up for success in 2025. This progress was largely made possible by improved cash management practices and by our dedicated staff and volunteers who embraced creative thinking to reach goals. The savings and earnings achieved in 2024, along with the dues increase coming up in 2025, will not only replenish our reserves but also provide our Operations Team with the flexibility we need to serve our community more effectively. We are deeply grateful to the Membership for supporting the dues increase and to the volunteers who have stood by the staff every step of the way. We look forward to spending another year maintaining, sustaining, and enhancing this community. Please continue reading for a recap of this year’s achievements and next year’s challenges.

Enhanced Finance Management Reaps Rewards: Our General Manager, Tom Schauder, worked closely with the Board of Directors to implement a lease strategy for Food & Beverage (F&B) services. This shift from Troon providing F&B service under a cost-reimbursable type contract to a lease with RocDun Hospitality LLC reduced losses by over 50% with plans to eliminate losses in future years. Our staff also embraced improved cash management practices, working with the Finance & Audit Committee to enhance our investment strategy, thus increasing our return on investments. Tom would like to thank the Board of Directors, all of our volunteers, and the entire LMOA Staff for their continued support and professionalism. “This community is a very large enterprise, and it takes a lot of teamwork, coordination, and collaboration to sustain its day-to-day operations,” he said.

New Faces Bring Fresh Perspectives: In March, LMOA welcomed Mark Novak to our team, who stepped into the important role of filling Carol Cavanaugh’s shoes. Mark brings a fresh perspective to Environmental Control & Compliance and has rebranded the department as Residential Standards. In May, we welcomed Senior Financial Analyst Laura Payne to the LMOA Finance Team. Her expertise has brought many improvements to the department, fostering great collaboration with the Finance & Audit Committee. Committee member Jay Hinkle dedicated quality time to assisting with the 2025 Budget and truly appreciated Laura’s support throughout the process. Exciting changes also took place within the Water Safety Patrol, where Tom Braithwaite passed the reins to Diane and Gibb Kerr. This wonderful, volunteer-driven group has embraced a neighbors-helping-neighbors ethos, now known as the Volunteer Water Safety Team (VWST). They are committed to promoting safety through education, outreach, and a friendly presence on the water. Our VWST has truly shined at Lake Monticello this year, with 72 volunteers dedicating 1550 hours to support water safety in 2024! Meanwhile, at the golf course, our Golf Pro, Mark Marshall, has taken on the important responsibility of managing our golf course after his well-deserved promotion. For the first time ever, the Lake Monticello Golf Club has broken even and is projected to make a profit in 2025. Huge congratulations to Mark for this achievement!

With Team Building, F&O Thrives: A member of the Facilities & Operations Team (F&O) observed that the Main Beach trash bins were frequently overflowing due to discarded pizza boxes. To tackle this issue, the team sought to install a commercial pizza box bin but found it to be priced at $1,200. The solution? F&O Director Tracy Chandler initiated a contest, challenging his team to create a more affordable, homemade version. Senior Staff selected Travis Perry’s design, and he and his coworkers built and installed the new bin at the Main Beach. This project was not only cost-effective but also served as an effective team-building activity. Tracy also led the Reserve Study collaboration with the third party, Reserve Advisors, giving him a comprehensive understanding of LMOA’s reserve funds. He has been proactive in restructuring his department by revising spending models for savings, enhancing focus on Lake Health, improving communications with a new map for welcome packets and infographics on our website, eliminating single points of failure within his team, and boosting productivity. Other team-building efforts have included participating in multiple floats in the July 4th Parade.

Lake Police Stop Scammers: This year, the Lake Monticello Police Department (LMPD) has been involved in several successful cases involving fraud and exploitation of Lake residents. Our dedicated officers focused on addressing various incidents of construction fraud, stepping in to help five residents who fell victim to the same contractor. Teaming up with the Fluvanna Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, our officers were able to secure an indictment against the contractor for several felony fraud charges and for operating without a license. On September 12, 2024, in Fluvanna Circuit Court, the contractor pleaded guilty to multiple counts and received a three-year prison sentence, along with a requirement to pay over $70K in restitution. Moreover, LMPD also looked into a financial exploitation case, and we’re pleased to share that the victim has received over $70K in restitution so far. Additionally, they assisted another resident in recovering nearly $4K after falling victim to a cryptocurrency scam. It’s heartwarming to know that the department often receives thank-you cards from residents who have had positive interactions with our officers. We truly appreciate their dedication and support in helping our community.

The Pub Becomes Bunker Bistro: During LMOA’s time managing Food & Beverage (pre-Covid), we faced challenges that led to losses of over $600K. We decided to outsource Golf and F&B Operations, a strategic move that helped reduce our losses in F&B. However, $400K was still too high of a cost for our association to bear. To better manage our finances, the LMOA Board of Directors supported the strategy to lease The Pub to an independent company. In March of this year, The Pub was revitalized as Bunker Bistro, now operated by our very own members, Jacie Dunkle and Sam Rochester, under the company name RocDun Hospitality LLC. LMOA supported its start-up with $100K, and the Board approved continuing the support in 2025 if necessary, capping the total cost in F&B at less than $180K annually. By reducing losses in this area, we can reallocate our budget towards critical operations that were deferred due to budget constraints, such as replacing failing gate systems, cleaning and replacing worn signs and fire hydrants, repairing the fishing pier at Tufton Pond, and addressing sediment control while assessing healthy dissolved oxygen levels in the Lake with the help of the Facilities & Lake Operations Committee.

Volunteers Save LMBC: At the beginning of 2024, the Lake Monticello Beautification Corps (LMBC) informed LMOA that they might need to dissolve as membership had dwindled. Recognizing the importance of the volunteer group that maintains LMOA’s common spaces, multiple groups in the Lake made a tremendous effort to recruit new volunteers. We are pleased to report that enough residents stepped up to support the group in 2024, enabling it to continue serving the community. This year, it donated five benches for enjoying scenic views ( a staff favorite overlooks the Main Beach). The group raised approximately $3,200 from the artist raffle and Holiday Home Tour, a cherished tradition at Lake Monticello. LMBC can always use more assistance and welcomes energetic outdoor lovers to join them. No gardening and landschapping experience is neccesaary! Please email Alan Aldag at [email protected] for more info!

Main Dam Successfully Recertified: Our Main Dam was recertified in October. As part of the process, Chief Wells led a tabletop exercise focused on emergency procedures for the dam. Participants included representatives from LMOA, Fluvanna County, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Sheriff’s Office, the Lake Monticello Water Rescue and Dive Team, and Shimp Engineering. Beyond this exercise, our LMOA staff perform daily dam inspections, and engineers also evaluate the Lake Monticello dams annually. These vital actions help ensure community safety and maintain our dam insurance.

Dredging Program Evolves: In April, the Facilities & Operations Team utilized a 90-ton crane to remove our dredger from the Lake so an expert from Aquarius Systems could examine the failing machinery. It was determined that the dredger was not economically repairable. LMOA faced a choice between a complete replacement, costing half a million dollars, or outsourcing the program. This situation was compounded by our dredger operator's plan to retire in the spring of 2025. Carl Vandevander has operated our dredgers for 15 years, and it would take many months to train someone new, making outsourcing to a reputable company more effective. Outsourcing was approved by the LMOA Board of Directors and will serve as a beta test in 2025, allowing LMOA to explore the service and other options. This new approach will initially cover the three main coves, while we look into alternatives for the smaller finger coves.

No Major Sewage Leaks Detected: In contrast to the summer of 2023, LMOA Staff did not discover any significant sewage leaks this year. It looks like our efforts to improve communication between LMOA and Aqua Virginia have had some positive results with infrastructure upgrades that include the replacement of key pump stations, the installation of remote monitors on select pump stations, a few smart manhole covers, a dedicated webpage for the Lake, and an ongoing odor study. The Water Workgroup, which brings together LMOA residents and Aqua Virginia staff, continues to meet monthly, and we look forward to receiving educational resources (like reminders not to flush any wipes or grease) and improved customer service from Aqua Virginia in the coming year. Thanks to the collective efforts of the LMOA Board of Directors, Community Development Committee (CDC), Water Workgroup, and dedicated LMOA Members and Staff, we slightly influenced Aqua Virginia’s proposed rate increase, which is now $1.41 million lower than they initially requested. The CDC chair, Tom Diggs, dedicated over 100 hours to researching legal documents and drafting statements for LMOA. He also attended the hearing to represent LMOA, and customers sent almost 2,000 comments to the State Corporation Commission (SCC) voicing their opposition to the rate increase. In our commitment to addressing neglected infrastructure and fighting rate hikes, LMOA staff and Board Directors met face-to-face with county and state officials, including those from the Department of Environmental Quality, Senator Mark Warner, Congressman Bob Good, and Delegate Thomas Garrett. As advocates of our community, LMOA will continue to drive an improved relationship with our utility provider.

New Working Groups Collaborate: At the October Board Meeting, President Larry Henson confirmed a working group will evaluate the Lake Monticello Community Foundation’s (LMCF) proposal for a pavilion on the Ashlawn Clubhouse grounds. Members, many living near the proposed site, will collaborate to recommend alternative locations. A separate Board-approved group has also been formed to reexamine discontinuing fireworks. After surveying the community and consulting Lake Police Chief David Wells and other LMOA staff, the Board decided against a fireworks contract for 2025 due to safety concerns about crowd control. For many years, providing a fireworks show around Independence Day has been an LMOA tradition. However, as the area population has grown and surrounding shows have been discontinued, increased spectators and limited parking have led to congestion, impacting emergency vehicle access. Chief Wells noted the location's safety issues, insufficient emergency staff, and access concerns for Main Beach emergencies. In 2023 and 2024, LMOA tried controlling crowds by closing public gates, but attendance at the Main Beach still grew, with residents creating extensive guest lists. LMOA asked Fluvanna County about fireworks at Pleasant Grove in 2025, but the request was not supported for similar concerns and issues. LMOA considered ticketing, restricting access, and shuttle options, but these presented new challenges. Following legal advice, LMOA staff agreed fireworks increased risk and liability, and the Board followed their recommendation not to enter into a contract for 2025 but also agreed to the formation of a workgroup. Laker Ann Walker will lead the initiative, aiming to evaluate if risks can return to a manageable level for reconsideration.

Lakers Give from the Heart: There were countless displays of our community’s generosity; these are just a few highlights:
The LMOA Merchandise Sale raised $475 for Meals On Wheels. This fall, LMOA sold t-shirts, ornaments, and Yeti tumblers to fundraise for our homebound residents. LMOA covered manufacturing costs and donated $5 for each item sold. The t-shirts are customized in Fluvanna County by The Crossed Arrow LLC. In December, LMOA made its annual donation to the Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire and Rescue (LMVFR) during its end-of-year celebration. This year was extra special as we celebrated LMVFR’s 50th anniversary with a one-time donation of $50,000! We received many heartfelt emails reflecting our community's appreciation for dedicated fire and rescue volunteers. The annual donation, totaling $35,000 in 2023, is consistently supported by our Members as gratitude for their lifesaving efforts. Additionally. the Gifting Ladies organized a food drive that collected 2,346 pounds of food and $350 for MACAA food banks.

Fluvanna Review Ends Home Deliveries: In August and September, some residents reported dangerous encounters with the new delivery driver, who drove on the wrong side of the road during the day. The Lake Police Chief informed the Review that deliveries against traffic were unsafe and illegal. The paper was advised to find an alternative and safe delivery method but not instructed to stop completely. Two months later, the publisher proposed pickup points, citing the high cost and scarcity of drivers. He had positive experiences with newspaper racks and boxes and assured LMOA these would be effective. LMOA staff supported this request but asked the newspaper to ensure homebound residents received the paper. Lake residents can find the newspaper at Ashlawn Clubhouse, Fairway Clubhouse, Pool House (summer only), Lafayette Park, Bunker Park, and the Marina. If you or someone you know is homebound and cannot reach a pickup point, please contact Marieke Henry at [email protected] for assistance with alternative arrangements.

We Continue to Grow: In 2024, sixteen new homes were built in our community. The Young Residents and Families, Wildlife, and Racquet Sports Committees have organized around 20 free, fun, and educational programs for all ages—many of which were beautifully captured on video by our dedicated volunteers from the Broadcast Committee. The Lake Monticello Ladies Golf Association also celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a variety of engaging activities for women and young golfers. Still, there's a shared hope that we can do even more for our growing teen population. The latest census shows that 24% of our residents are aged 18 or younger, highlighting their importance in our community. Our F&O Director, Tracy Chandler, has come up with some fantastic ideas for projects to present to the Board, including a swim dock and teen-friendly park improvements, both of which have been met with great enthusiasm. In 2025, LMOA plans to reach out to the teen population for their guidance. We thank all the volunteers who have worked hard to provide free programs and videos, and we look forward to collaborating with them again next year. Be sure to check out our YouTube channel and please subscribe! 
Solar Project Exceeds Expectations: The solar panels on the Ashlawn Clubhouse roof are tracking to a 7 to 8-year payback period instead of the initial estimate of 12-13 years. The total actual project cost was $189K. We already saved $9.2K in power costs in the first 6 months and will receive $3.2K in Solar Renewable Energy Certificate credits for the first year. Results so far have exceeded expectations and should improve as we get into the summer months with increased sunlight.

Legacy Wall Commemorates Past and Present: If you have been to the Ashlawn Clubhouse, you will have noticed the “legacy wall” upstairs. LMOA’s Executive Assistant, Karis Rivera, was inspired to create the wall of historical photos and documents when searching through the archives for her job. “Diving deep into LMOA’s past helped me feel more connected to Lake Monticello, and I wanted to share that experience with our residents.” We invite everyone to stop by and have a look.

Pool Enjoyment for Everyone: The zero entry of the pool presented challenges this year when new paint created a slipping hazard. The staff had to block the entrance, and pool visitors graciously dealt with the inconvenience. Other paint has been selected and will be applied in the spring before the pool season begins. The purchase of a pool-access wheelchair to assist those with disabilities has also been approved by the Board, as well as 25 Daily Pool Pass Credits for Members in Good Standing, which was approved by the Membership. LMOA staff will present residents with the plan for assigning pool credits and managing access for the 2025 pool season. The community can expect details about the finalized plan by March 1, 2025, ahead of the 2025 Pool Season that will begin Memorial Day weekend (May 26, 2025).

Communications Enhanced with Everbridge: LMOA is excited to offer the convenience of text alerts to help you stay informed. With the Everbridge platform, LMOA can alert you via text during emergencies, and you can also opt to receive updates about upcoming events and other community announcements. Voluntary registration is easy—just click THIS LINK, fill out your details, and select the types of alerts you want to receive. You can also choose to receive the messages via email or phone call. The first test message is scheduled to be sent on January 15, 2025.

This is quite a bit, isn’t it? Can you believe it only hints at the amazing work our staff and volunteers do to uplift this fantastic lake community? We truly appreciate you keeping up with LMOA’s official news, and we’re excited to see what’s in store for us this new year. Wishing you a joyful 2025!

Warmest regards,

Marieke Henry
LMOA Comms & Admin Director