Eastman Ownership Assessment Shackles

The shackles of Eastman Assessments encumber Eastman Owners. The annual assessment has skyrocketed more than 100% in the past 12 years with absolutely no accountability as for how the money is spent. An effective takeover of Eastman Governance by affluent golf elitists and their friends, owning high-value residences has eliminated direct participation for the majority of Eastman owners.

In a complex incomprehensible governance bureaucracy, the average Eastman owner has no idea how the community operates and has no ability to hold anyone accountable. In fact in stealth Committees, accountants, lawyers and professors have hoodwinked trusting ECA members into governmental lunacy. Has it always been this way? NO. In the first 30 years of its existence there were 12 amendments to the Declarations. In the last 12 years alone, there have been 14 amendments—effectively changing the governance structure. This does not include the absolute Powers that the Board has unilaterally given to the Board President through its Board Bylaws (See: http://eastmanblog.blogspot.com/2014/08/eastman-governance-how-it-works-in-2014.html). The deception has been carried out using propaganda words such as “environmental improvements”, “cost reduction”, better “golf experience” and “the majority” wants it.

Much like Bernie Madoff bamboozling investors with false financial statements and claims, Eastman owners also have no rights of accountability or independent substantiation of financial claims. (For more details see: http://eastmanblog.blogspot.com/2014/10/board-refuses-financial-information.html)  There is no proof of concept or independent validation, except for the golf elitists, who will approve how the golf professionals are held accountable. An example of Golf elitist power and influence can be found in the Golf Committee minutes of Feb 2014:  Center Renovation Project: Dave Philippy spoke to the EGL Committee in Phil Webber’s absence regarding the Center’s Revitalization Plans. The overview of the Center’s revitalization will be presented at the Open House on March 1st. Dave is asking that the EGL Committee recommend the 5.7 million dollar project to build a new center. The new Center would definitely help make the “Golf Experience” more enjoyable. The Pro Shop will have a more desirable location and in view of anyone going to the Center which would help to increase sales. “The Center” name will be changed to something else like “The Lodge” for example.

 The golf simulator is part of the 5.7 million dollar project. Bill Blish suggested that plans for possibly adding three more simulators be a consideration. Richard Strong agreed with Bill and if the design is done right, this would be a huge attraction to many and also could be utilized on

league rainout days. Richard also suggested that memberships could also be sold for the golf simulator. Richard Strong would like to ensure this “New Center” project has a Utilization Standing Committee.

If this sounds a little implausible, take a closer look. That is the real power of the ECA Board’s deception—owners can’t believe they’ve been hoodwinked and been so gullible. Rumor has it that Maynard Goldman is well-schooled in this deceptive practice. He may even have been a victim.

Bob and Geri Logan are partners in their consulting practice since 1993 that provides expertise on improved business, financial and operational performance as well as leadership.