Director prioritizes getting deficit under control, says he anticipates budget cuts

By Josh Davis, Associate Editor

(Jan. 18, 2018) Ocean Pines Association Director Slobodan Trendic on Tuesday emailed a statement regarding recent developments at the country club.

The board voted 6-0, on Jan. 9 to hire Salisbury firm Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. to amend architectural drawings for renovations on the second floor of the club.

Trendic was unable to attend the meeting because of an illness and he had concerns about aspects of the decision that were not part of the board discussion.

“Getting [the] deficit under control and taking proper actions should have been [the] Board’s top priority since last summer,” Trendic wrote. “I will look for a draft budget that clearly reflects that. I will expect to see across-the-board budget cuts, expenditure cuts and increase in revenue where one can be achieved. The Board should only consider projects that are essential and also have a clear justification.

“Let me give you one example. Last year, when I first saw the proposed layout at the Country Club [building] calling for a large second floor dining area, I asked for a business plan. I am still asking the same question. I want to see a business plan that will allow the Board to make intelligent and informed decision. A plan that will show an [return on investment]; that will tell us who will be held accountable and responsible if the losses start to occur. Do we really need any additional food space that may end-up needing to be subsidized like the Yacht Club?

“Our [food and beverage] operations have been money losing burdens to homeowners for far [too] long. The yacht club lost over $1.5 million before depreciation since 2010. What makes us convinced that a large dining space is needed at the Country Club; that the Tern Grill space is not enough? I would rather see that space repurposed to meet community’s greater need; for example turning it into a nice fitness center.”