From the message archives:

5/10/2018 2:11:55 PM
Section 23: OPA Elections
Subject: Hill and Diller File 
From: Esther Diller 
To: All
All association members
Over the last several months, there has been much discussion in the Ocean Pines community regarding transparency and open communications. In some areas, progress has been made, but in others, there is still much work to be done. Unfortunately, yesterday, the closed-door dealings escalated to a new level with the very disappointing recommendation from our General Manager to the Board. Based on this action, we have decided that it is necessary to run for the board, to join other candidates who are supportive of having transparency in community decisions, and sound procedures in procurement, including open RFP cycles for all major projects in accordance with our existing financial guidelines.

The fact is right now we have a lame duck board. They have taken no action towards any major capital initiatives in the last 8 months, but are now using their last three meetings to a make key decisions on a large capital commitment when all options have not been evaluated. Buying software that has not been publicly shared, through a process that was managed by individuals who have a financial interest in the proposed result, without consideration of alternative options, is a complete neglect of fiduciary duties for all parties involved. Such a significant purchase needs to be both approved and implemented by the SAME board, that being the NEW board elected in August, after ALL options can be presented to them.

We look forward to serving the community, and most importantly re-establishing open lines of communication and transparency on where and how OUR Ocean Pines assessments are spent. Hiding behind attorneys and secret meetings needs to end. The Maryland HOA Act was drafted to protect the Homeowner’s, and we need a board that uses the HOA Act to foster community involvement, not hide board activities.

Thank you.

Esther Diller and Brett Hill