By Greg Ellison

(July 22, 2021) Ocean Pines Board candidate Stuart Lakernick could not attend last Tuesday’s election forum because of a work commitment, but he did comment this week on topics the forum covered.

With regards to personality conflicts among board members, Lakernick said tense exchanges are typically counterproductive.

“This board still is able to work even though there are personality conflicts,” he said. “They are not as effective as they would be if these conflicts didn’t exist.”

Lakernick said if elected his aim would be altering the interplay among directors to heighten respect for differing opinions.

“We can work together towards our common goal of making Ocean Pines even better,” he said. “Without the drama, I feel that we can get even more accomplished.”

Separation of responsibilities between board members and the general manager is a clear-cut matter in Lakernick’s view.

“The GM works at the pleasure of the board,” he said.

Performance ranking for the general manager, who also oversees association staff, is relatively straight forward, Lakernick said.

“There are metrics that we use to measure the GM’s performance, ie: revenue, smooth operations, staff retention, etc.,” he said.

Lakernick said there are no instances where board members should be directly involved with guiding staff.

“If the GM has an issue, he relays it to the board,” he said. “I do not believe in micromanaging, especially with a GM as strong as John Viola.”

Lakernick also has an issue with current efforts to enforce regulations for short-term rentals.

“I feel that short-term renters are being singled out,” he said.

Lakernick opposed proposed short-term rental restrictions, saying that most problems stem from the actions of a handful of “bad actors.”

“This is not a short-term rental issue, this is a behavior issue,” he said. “We have some long-term renters and residents who act poorly.”

Lakernick said enforcement of current noise and trash ordinances by Worcester County should remain the focus.

“Enforce the laws already in place,” he said.

Further, Lakernick said in many instances short-term renters prove to be an asset to the community.

“It brings in much needed revenue to all our amenities,” he said. “Many of these folks after being exposed to our community, buy their second homes here.”

Lakernick also shared his game plan to gain more knowledge about the directors’ roles and responsibilities.

“I will get up to speed by listening, learning, investigating, evaluating [and] then give educated input,” he said.

In terms renovating or rebuilding the Beach Club building, Lakernick said cost issues would need to be sorted out first.

“We need to put out an RFP for estimates on remodeling the building and or replacing it,” he said. “This is a premier amenity of Ocean Pines that needs to be addressed.”