Randy Young, TLIA President
The only constant, in an organization, is change and change is good. Throughout my tenure as a member of the board and as its President it has been change that has driven us to be at our best. Over the last few years, I believe our changes have been almost all for the good; of course, the time has not gone by without its challenges but mostly good. Here are just a few of the changes we have been witness to…
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- Our committee structure has changed; it is more efficient and inclusive of more membership and great ideas.
- Our board has changed to include some of the best people I have ever been associated with and more advisors to guide us along our way.
- Our grounds are better. Over 150 tress planed in the last two years. The parks are managed by the stewards and they have never been better.
- The lake swings either way depending on the year and climate. It’s a challenge but the best part is the quality of the people and improvement we have see in the Lake Committee membership.
- Our communications has changed. We now deliver our information electronically. Our newsletter is the best in content, design, and relevant information and it is consistently delivered on time.
- We have 2 new bridges for access to the islands and the recreational areas.
- We have improved our beach with new tables, benches and shade areas. And there is more to come.
- Our activities have never been more inclusive or more fun. Ask anyone and then thank the Events Committee members.
- We have a showcase stage for activities on Rest Island.
- We have two beautiful new tennis courts.
- Our most recent goal is just halfway finished — our rain gardens. Not only are they beautiful but functional as well.
I believe our biggest change is the reorganization of the board and its financial management including the change to our fiscal year. Our money management has improved and we are in a position to use Quickbooks as a true management tool. This implementation will allow the Board to redefine how dues are managed, budgets are created, and most importantly, the way we learn and use that knowledge will help keep your dues as low as they can be. Best practices has been our hallmark over the last four years and it is working. Now that we have formed a functioning Finance Committee, we are applying improved procedures and policies to guide our fiscal management for years to come while building a process of association management that is consistent, not only state law but on par with best homeowners’ associations anywhere.
I could go on but I would rather focus on the WE part of this list. The WE is our TLIA Board. We have worked hard and done a fantastic job for you, the membership. You can and should be proud of each and every one who has given of themselves, their time and their hard work to make this happen. I am so proud of the work we have done. In just a few words here is how I see my fellow TLIA Board Members…
Tom Kubala: He faces a challenge head on and with grace, always getting the job done.
Kathy Pattengale: Patient adviser, hard worker who applies persistence with attention to detail.
Fran Steffen: Champion of our revenue recovery.
Mike Mitchell: A calm and reassuring voice of reason that you can count on.
Mary Magro: The consistent contributor and watcher of the money.
John Yancey: Beautiful fall foliage, spring blooms, and summer green. Need we say more?
Kevin Middleditch: Another reasoned voice, measured thinker, and the promise of things to come.
Steve Burgoon: A spirited soul striving to include everyone in the process of improvement.
In my ten years on the TLIA Board I have seen the people who do what it takes and when it needs to happen. I have seen them change with the times while improving everything they touch. Each and every one of them has my full support and ultimate confidence in their dedication and the jobs they do. It has been a pleasure serving with all of these fine people and I am proud to have worked side by side with each of them.
Change is a constant and change is good. Almost all of the goals I set when taking on the job of president have been accomplished, not all but most and that is fine. In the spirit of having done what I can, it is time for one more change. I have chosen not to seek election to another term as your TLIA President. I will leave it to the next generation of leaders to set their goals, and make them a reality. Just like I did. I have complete confidence in their ability to to do just that! It has been my pleasure working with this Board and all the wonderful volunteers I have worked with for the past ten years.
So now it is time to say THANK YOU to each of you, the people who have allowed me to be a part of the process of making Tower Lakes a better place to live, a better place to raise our families and a wonderful community to enjoy the good life. I could not have asked for more nor would I have expected less.