Great Northwest Community Improvement Association, Inc.

Message from the Chairman, Joe H. Martinez

Sep 26, 2003

We started the process of establishing a budget for the 2004 year at the last Board meeting. What makes this task difficult is that the Board must base its decisions on what is best for the Association without receiving input from the majority of approximately 4900 plus members. Some 700 members do not live in the confines of the Great Northwest. Some are Military and may plan to return to the area while others have moved to other parts of the city, state or country. They have retained ownership in our Association because they believe in the stability of the Association and feel their property can demand excellent rent or perhaps they want to return to the area and use their property during their retirement.

The Board hears from some members on a regular basis, mostly from a small group which naturally has its own interests to support. We have groups who are anxious to begin work on what they believe is of vital importance to the Association. This enthusiasm (by this group of residents) is great so long as the project does not create an additional expense to the membership. The Board has approved projects in the past which may have appeared to be important when they were presented. Such projects may or may not be considered as important today. This is a decision the Board must make. Each Board member certainly can poll the membership and get opinions which will help him or her. Most important, I invite those of the vast majority to come to Board Meetings and provide input. If you are unable to do so at least can a Board Member . You can call me at (210) 520-4389. I guarantee you that I will return your call.

In my mind the Board must concentrate on issues and projects which are for the good of the majority of the Association. This same criteria must have been applied in the past because we have excellent projects which are largely funded by the participants. I applaud those members who are responsible for the success of these programs. Excellent examples are the recreation programs which include the Swim team, Soccer teams and other programs. The Board must support these programs because they could be considered part of the life of our association. We offer services/programs such as the rental of the lodge which are available to everyone on a first come first serve basis. We have volunteer programs such as the A Team which cost a very small amount to operate and are truly a benefit to the Association. I find the work of previous Boards on these issues commendable.

We have annexed an area which will increase the size of our association by supposedly 69 homes. Most will not be added to the membership until next year. What are we going to offer them for their dollar?