July 2023

First page 1 Next page Last page

Please enjoy this issue of Community Trends®, all about Rags to Riches - making good financial choices for your community.

JULY 2023 Community Trends

RAGS TO RICHES

Rasi BhadramaniiStock/Getty Images Plus

In This Issue • Going Green to Save Green • How Associations Can Benefit Financially from Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCs) • Look, There’s Money Coming Out the Wazoo! • Not all Energy Programs are Scams • ....and more

TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT THIS ISSUE, PLEASE CLICK THE ICON BELOW.

The Community Associations Institute New Jersey chapter would like to thank its 2023 Ultimate Partners below. For more information on our sponsorships, please contact CAI-NJ at 609-588-0030 or info@cainj.org.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT !

THE CAI-NJ COMMUNITY TRENDS ® MAGAZINE CONTENTS

EXTRAS President’s Corner Looking Ahead Legislative Update 8 Dennis R. Casale Memorial Golf Outing Recap & Photos 19 2023 CAI-NJ Recruiter Club Challenge 25 Pre-Conference Networking Reception — Save the Date 29 2023 Beach Party Registration 35 Ultimate Night Out Homeowner & Manager Registration 39 Webinar Wednesdays 41 F.A.S.T. Kickball Tournament — Save the Date 43 Board Leadership Development Workshop Registration 45 2023 CAI-NJ Conference & Expo — Save the Date 47 2023 CAI-NJ Conference & Expo Attendee Registration 48 New Members 49 CMCA Study Group — Coffee & Cram Registration 51 CA-PAC 9 And Nosh Registration 53 Community Trends ® Author Guidelines 54 Community Association Leadership Summit Registration 57 2023 Ultimate Partner Listings 60 CAI-NJ Family Day at Laurita Winery — Save the Date 62 14 Going Green to Save Green By Casey Sky Noon CoolSys Energy Design 26 How Associations Can Benefit Financially From Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCs) By Joe DeSimone Greenspot 32 Look, There’s Money Coming Out the Wazoo! By Robert Roop, P.E. Lockatong Engineering 38 Not all Energy Programs are Scams By Robert Arnone, MSRE, AMS, CPM ® RCA Management Properties 42 Management Trends: Sense of Community or Cents for Community? By Thomas Curry, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Rossmoor Community Association, Inc. 5 6 7 CAI-NJ Upcoming Events

JULY 2023

CAI-NJ BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

VICE PRESIDENT STEVEN MLENAK, ESQ. GREENBAUM, ROWE, SMITH & DAVIS, LLP

PRESIDENT ELECT CHRISTOPHER NICOSIA, CMCA, AMS, PCAM PRIME MANAGEMENT, INC., AAMC

PRESIDENT TONY NARDONE, MBA, PCAM CORNER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, LLC, AAMC

TREASURER RYAN FLEMING, EBP JGS INSURANCE, A BALDWIN RISK PARTNER

SECRETARY KRISTINA MUNSON, CMCA, AMS, PCAM RCP MANAGEMENT COMPANY, AAMC, AMO

BOARD MEMBERS

Mary Barrett, Esq. Stark & Stark Attorneys at Law Business Partner

Charles Lavine Homeowner Leader Carol Nickerson, CMCA

Benjamin Basch, EBP Ground Support Services Business Partner Joseph Chorba, CPA

FirstService Residential, AAMC Community Association Manager Robert Travis, CIRMS Long Beach Commons Condominium Association Homeowner Leader

WilkinGutenplan Business Partner

GENERAL COUNSEL Jason Orlando, Esq. Orlando Murphy LLP

GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS Wendell A. Smith, Esq., CCAL Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis, LLP

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Jeffrey Logan Guardian Service Industries, Inc.

JULY 2023

PRESIDENT’S CORNER Tony Nardone, MBA, PCAM 2023 CAI-NJ PRESIDENT CORNER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, LLC, AAMC

CAI-NJ TEAM

W e’re in the dog days of summer and most of us are enjoying the long days, cool evenings and all the fun that summer brings. This month’s issue focuses on rags to riches from a financial standpoint. Now most of us reading this article would jump into manager/vendor mode and start asking questions or looking for the next angle when it comes to a community’s financial well-being or how much is budgeted for the upcoming This month would be a good time to reflect on our personal finances. When we think about our own personal finances some of us conscientiously try to put it out of our minds or kick the can further down the road. Ask yourself if that really solves the problem or just puts it on the back burner? So many places to start here but let’s start with the basics. We should review our financial plans with a trained professional, the same advice we give our clients. After all what’s good for them is good for us would you agree? Cover the basics in any financial plan. Am I saving for my children’s future, is my long-term estate plan in place, am I paying myself first and taking advantage of retirement plan my company offers or contributing on my own? In our daily lives we preach a lot of these fundamentals to our clients but how many of us practice this ourselves? I’ve had many casual conversations with individuals in both our industry and other industries, and when these conversa tions come up, those who know me know I’m not shy about asking them if they heeded their own advice. You’d be surprised how many excuses I hear but, in the end, it only impacts you and your family. Let’s end this on a high note. It only takes us time to meet with a personal financial planner whether you’re just starting out or maybe reviewing an existing plan, take action this month and set a date to meet with your professional and review your personal situation. One of my favorite books is Rich Dad Poor Dad and along with that comes one of my favorite quotes from the author Robert Kiyosaki. “Financial freedom is available to those who learn about it and work for it.” n “...take action this month and set a date to meet with your professional and review your personal situation.” project. I think we’re just wired to think that way and often we think about our own financial goals last.

ANGELA KAVANAUGH CHAPTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ANGELA@CAINJ.ORG JACLYN OSKIERKO DIRECTOR, CONFERENCE & EVENTS JACLYN@CAINJ.ORG ROBIN SURGENT DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT ROBIN@CAINJ.ORG BROOKE STOPPIELLO-NEVINS COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

BROOKE@CAINJ.ORG JENNIFER FARRELL PROGRAM MANAGER JENNIFER@CAINJ.ORG GAIL BONUS ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT GAIL@CAINJ.ORG

Contact CAI-NJ

ADDRESS CAI-NJ

500 HARDING ROAD FREEHOLD, NJ 07728 PHONE 609-588-0030 FAX 609-588-0040 WEB WWW.CAINJ.ORG EMAIL INFO@CAINJ.ORG

CAI-NJ on Social Media

www.facebook.com/ CAINJCHAPTER Community Associations Institute - New Jersey Chapter

@cainewjersey

CAI-NJ

JULY 2023

LOOKING AHEAD ANGELA KAVANAUGH | CAI-NJ CHAPTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

J uly is all about celebrations with family and friends. It’s summer holidays, Independence Day & don’t forget about National Ice Cream Month, when ice cream has zero calories. This summer season, I hope all of you can get outside to support the philanthropic efforts of our F.A.S.T. (Future All Star Team) Committee. I am proud of our F.A.S.T., a dedicated group of young professional future leaders in the community association industry. Their mission is to make a significant contribution to our communities through their annual events. This year they will once again host both the CAI-NJ Olympics and the CAI-NJ Kickball Tournament, with 100% of the raised reve nue supporting the Make-A-Wish New Jersey Foundation. The CAI-NJ Olympics is set for Wednesday, July 12th, at Thompson Park in Monroe Township. It’s a super fun adult field day where our members can compete in team building outdoor games while networking, ending the day with the entertaining, Slime a Board Member Challenge. This year we are anticipating 32 teams of 4. Spectator registrations are also available if you just want to come out and cheer the teams on. The CAI-NJ Kickball Tournament is set for Thursday, September 28th at Mercer County Park in Princeton Junction. It will be another fun-filled day of team building and networking with the opportunity for you to build NEW relationships as we mix up the teams with members outside of your group. It will be a bracket style tournament with 8 teams, and we will once again bring back some nostalgia with our old school hot dog cart and ice cream truck. Come out for a fun day of play or register to cheer on your favorite team. The F.A.S.T. also raises donations at the Golf Outing, offering the opportunity to purchase mulligans, the School Supply Drive at the CAI-NJ Beach Party, and the Adopt a Family Campaign for the holiday season. In the Fall, they will host the Make-A-Wish New Jersey Breakfast and

Castle Tour with their presentation of a check to the Make A-Wish New Jersey Foundation, with a full year of dona tions raised through their philanthropic efforts. In 2022 through the generous support of our members, they raised $21,133 granting 2 wishes, totaling over $70,000 since the committee’s inception. Please join them as they try to surpass last year’s goals. Other New Jersey chapter happenings throughout the year July 18 – Community Association Leadership Summit at Greenbriar Woodlands, an interactive panel of experts on current issues affecting your community. August 10 – Coffee and Cram at the CAI-NJ Headquarters in Freehold, preparation instruction for community associa tion managers looking to take the CMCA exam. August 22 & 23 – The Board Leadership Development Program at the CAI-NJ Headquarters in Freehold, learn how to be an even more effective board member. September 14 – Annual Beach Party at Martell’s Tiki Bar in Point Pleasant, our largest networking event of the year. October 5 – CA-PAC 9 and Nosh at Concordia Golf Club in Monroe Township, to benefit our Legislative efforts. October 7 – Family Day at Laurita Winery, the first ever, CAI-NJ family day. October 19 – 2023 Conference & Expo at the Events Center @ iPA, the must attend tradeshow for those living and working in common interest communities. For further information and to register for our upcoming programs, please visit, https://cainj.org/network-events/, for networking events and for educational programs visit, https://cainj.org/education-events/.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 46

JULY 2023

CALENDAR 2023 Events & Education

JULY

SEPTEMBER

12 18 26

14 27 28

F.A.S.T. Olympics Thompson Park, Monroe Twp.

Beach Party Martell’s Tiki Bar, Pt. Pleasant

Community Associations Leadership Summit Greenbriar Woodlands, Toms River

Wednesday Webinar Virtual

F.A.S.T. Kickball Tournament Mercer County Park, Princeton Junction

AUGUST

OCTOBER

3 10 22 23

5 7

Ultimate Night Out Jersey Shore BlueClaws Stadium, Lakewood

CA-PAC 9 & Nosh Concordia Golf Club, Monroe Twp. Family Day at Laurita Winery Laurita Winery, New Egypt

CMCA Exam Study Group - Coffee & Cram CAI-NJ Headquarters, Freehold Board Leadership Development Workshop CAI-NJ Headquarters, Freehold

18 19

Pre-Conference Networking Reception The Event Center @iPA, Freehold

Conference & Expo The Event Center @iPA, Freehold

DECEMBER

5 5

Annual Meeting & Chapter Retreat The Grand Marquis, Old Bridge

Winter Break Party The Grand Marquis, Old Bridge

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

MATTHEW Z. EARLE, ESQ. KATES, NUSSMAN, ELLIS, FARHI & EARLE, LLP LEGISLATIVE ACTION COMMITTEE CHAIR

ED SAN GEORGE, MPA, PCAM INTEGRA MANAGEMENT CORP., AAMC LEGISLATIVE ACTION COMMITTEE VICE CHAIR

Community Associations Institute – LAC New Jersey Support S2760 & A4384 - Structural Integrity & Reserve Funding

I n the wake of the tragic Champlain Towers building collapse in Florida, CAI and the New Jersey Legislative Action Committee (NJ-LAC) have engaged with New Jersey legislators in developing appropriate legislation to address building safety and replacement reserve funding on a statewide basis. The tragedy of Champlain Towers should never occur in New Jersey. New Jersey has many buildings that were built more than 40 years ago. As buildings age, inevitable deterioration occurs that must be cured. When proper inspections and maintenance of structural components are delayed, costs are more exten sive and result in significant assessments or sizeable loans. These assessments or loans have routinely created hard ships for some residsents and have increased the number of owners that cannot pay on a current basis. Required inspections and reserve funding will mitigate assessments through proper planning and contain costs over time. Though it has taken a while for our proposed legislation to reach the floors of the Assembly and Senate, these legislative bodies are now poised for consideration and action in June and July. The NJ-LAC offers for your review, consideration, and support S2760 sponsored by Senator Troy Singleton (Burlington) and A4384 sponsored by Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez (Middlesex). The follow ing are the key highlights to the legislation.

Amendments to Uniform Construction Code Act Concerning Strutural Inspections • Covered Building and System in the Legislation is Defined as: - Covered building means a residential condominium or cooperative building, only, that is categorized as use group R-1 or use group R-2, as those terms are defined in N.J.A.C.5:70-1.5, having a primary load bearing system comprised of concrete, masonry, steel, hybrid “The tragedy of Champlain Towers should never occur in New Jersey. New Jersey has many buildings that were built more than 40 years ago.” structure including, without limitation, heavy timber, and a building with podium decks, but not including excluded structures. - The covered buildings must have a primary load bearing system, as described above. These types of buildings are generally characterized as mid and high rise building. CONTINUES ON PAGE 13

JULY 2023

2023 CAI-NJ COMMITTEES

AWARDS COMMITTEE Annie Gonzales — Chair Lila Khiry Cirillo — Vice Chair Jeanine Clark, Esq. Drew Cowley Lindsay Cupples, EBP

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Nicole Martone, CMCA, AMS, PCAM — Chair

GOLF OUTING COMMITTEE Fred Hodge, Jr., EBP — Chair Keith Giliberti, PE, RS, EBP — Vice Chair Harold Berlowe, CMCA Chris Belkot Lorenzo Cullari, AICP Sal Iozzia Hank Johns, EBP Lisa Komitor Cathy Mango, EBP Karl Meth, Esq. Paul Migliore

MANAGER COMMITTEE Mary Barone, CMCA, AMS — Chair Chuck Graziano, PCAM — Vice Chair Erin Cautero, CMCA, AMS Tom Curry, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Michael Flippin, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Anthony Gjergji, Jr. Richard Mattalian, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Erin O’Reilly, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Vincent Rapolla, AMS Mariaellen Varelis Elaine Warga-Murray, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Michelle Williams, CMCA, AMS Board Liaisons Kristina Munson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Carol Nickerson, CMCA Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Tara Baldwin, CPA — Chair Megan Elgard, EBP — Vice Chair Michael Barch Lysa Bergenfeld, Esq. Nichole Gist Antoinette Hutchinson Melissa Lloyd, CMCA, AMS

Drew Podolski, Esq. — Vice Chair Robert Arnone, MSRE, CMCA, AMS

Don Cabrera, CMCA David Dockery, Esq. Jonathan Katz, Esq. Michael Mezzo, CPA, MBA

Kim Dempsey Jeffrey Logan Christine Maldonado Michael Millar Vanessa Pena Kari Prout, CMCA

Steven Morris. RS Casey Sky Noon Robert Roop Board Liaisons Mary Barrett, Esq. Carol Nickerson, CMCA Staff Liaison: Brooke Stoppiello-Nevins EVENTS COMMITTEE Debbie Pasquariello, CIC, CIRMS, EBP — Chair Diane Cody, CMCA, PCAM — Vice Chair Ray Barnes, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Tim Bruchez

Nicole Skaro, CMCA, EBP Eileen Szelewicki, CMCA Mary Visco Sandi Wiktor Board Liaisons Tony Nardone, MBA, PCAM Christopher Nicosia, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell BUSINESS PARTNER Gregory Vinogradsky, Esq., EBP — Chair Mike Luzzi, CPIA, EBP — Vice Chair Theresa Beckett, EBP Jack Benson Jordan Burkhalter, CPA

Mike Polulak, Esq. Ross Rutman, EBP David Shahrabani, EBP

Jasmin Shelton Jodi Smallwood Michael Sturchio Ryan Weiner Charles Witczak, III, PE, PP, PLS Tom Witkowski Paul Wojciechowski Board Liaisons Steven Mlenak, Esq. Tony Nardone, MBA, PCAM

Dean Catanzarite Justine DelVecchio

Frank Fasolo, IV Freedom Hildreth Pam Illiano Stacey Koehl, CMCA, AMS Laura McIntyre, EBP Daniel Reilly Rachel Rutman Christina Mirra Sohnen Randy Vogel Melissa Volet, Esq. Jill Zulin Board Liaisons Joseph Chorba, CPA F.A.S.T. COMMITTEE Steven Kuhnert — Chair Jessica Long — Vice Chair JP Ascolese Adara Azeez Chelsea Brodmerkel Jonathan Cairone Alexis Dairman Eric Eggert, CIC, CIRMS Shelby Evans, CPA, EBP Kristi Evans Rebecca Gavin Mary Ellen Liberatore Will Meola Marian Miawad, Esq. Nicole Miller, Esq. Charles Lavine Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell HOMEOWNER LEADER COMMITTEE Richard Lans — Chair Lois Gerber — Vice Chair Bruce Blum Roslyn Brodsky Barbara Finn, CMCA

Kim Manicone Renee Martin Mark Mojares Kathleen Radler Brent Rivenburgh, EBP Steve Roderick, EBP Michael Ryan Ken Shah Rick Sobczak Ryan Trembley Michael Willner, Esq. Board Liaisons Joseph Chorba, CPA

Ron Fermano Carrie Fusella Dave Kiessling Richard Lang, EBP Toni Licciardi Chris Merkler Donna Meyer, EBP Ben Mitrou John Prisco, Esq. Sal Sciallo Perry Stavridis Jessica Vail, EBP David VelascoM EBP Michael Vennitti, EBP Board Liaisons Benjamin Basch, EBP Ryan Fleming, EBP

Charles Fredericks Kenneth Freeman Salvatore Gurriero

Keira Hauck Carl Kentzel Cheryl Palent

Board Liaisons Charles Lavine Robert Travis, CIRMS

Charles Lavine Staff Liaison: Robin Surgent WOMEN’S LEADERSHP COMMITTEE Lirelle Klein — Chair Jamie Cullen, CMCA — Vice Chair Amani Abdellah, Esq. Jennifer Carr

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent LEGISLATIVE ACTION COMMITTEE (LAC)/PAC Matthew Z. Earle, Esq. — Chair Edward San George, PCAM — Vice Chair Jackie Thermidor, CMCA, AMS, PCAM — Secretary Mohammed Salyani, CPA — Treasurer Elizabeth Comando, CMCA, PCAM — PAC President Andrew Podolski, Esq. — PAC Vice President James Rademacher, EBP — PAC Committee Jennifer Alexander, Esq. Roslyn Brodsky Barbara Drummond, CMCA, PCAM

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent

CONFERENCE & EXPO Saher Gouda, EBP — Chair Shelia Adams, CMCA — Vice Chair Joe Bonafede Jay Burak Nicole Camarota, CMCA, AMS George Caso Martinez Angela Celeste Ellen Comiski, CMCA Marty Conway John Echelmeier Jessica Kizmann, CPA Danita Susi Holly Teufel, CMCA, AMS Board Liaisons Ryan Fleming, EBP Christopher Nicosia, CMCA, AMS, PCAM

Linda Courain, CMCA, AMS Martinia Heath, CMCA, AMS Svetlana Malinsky, CMCA Kristin Marzarella Gail McDermid, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Rachel Neves Jennifer Nevins, CMCA, EBP Jen O’Brien Cheryl Rhine, CIC, CIRMS, EBP Nikki Schillaci, EBP Lisa Vitiello, CPA Board Liaisons Mary Barrett, Esq. Kristina Munson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM

Jose Romero Dharmi Shah Peter Shine, EBP Ilija Trajkoski

Mitchell Frumkin, RS Vincent Hager, CIRMS Karyn Kennedy-Branco, Esq. Terry Kessler, Esq. J. David Ramsey, Esq. Lisa Rayca, CMCA, AMS John Reichart Alexander Scheffer, CMCA Board Liaisons: Richard Milder Cheryl Palent

Lauren Vadenais, EBP Kristy Winchock, EBP Board Liaisons Benjamin Basch, EBP Kristina Munson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Staff Liaisons: Brooke Stoppiello-Nevins Robin Surgent

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell

Steven Mlenak, Esq. Robert Travis, CIRMS Staff Liaisons: Angela Kavanaugh Robin Surgent

JULY 2023

CAI-NJ 2023 PARTNERS

Alliance Association Bank Ansell Grimm & Aaron, PC Associa Community Management Corp., AAMC Becker BELFOR Property Restoration Brown & Brown Insurance of Lehigh Valley Corner Property Management, LLC, AAMC

GAF Hill Wallack LLP Kipcon Inc. McGovern Legal Services, LLC PS&S, LLC PuroClean of Hoboken, Jersey City, Fort Lee Rezkom Enterprises, Inc. Sweeping Corp. of America (SCA) Taylor Management Company, AAMC, AMO Technocality, Inc. USI Insurance Services WilkinGuttenplan

Denali Property Management, Inc. The Falcon Group - Engineering, Architecture & Reserve Specialists FWH Associates, P.A.

Accent Group Access Property Management, AAMC, AMO Adamas Building Services All County Exteriors Amco Pest Solutions, Inc. Anchor Pest Control Becht Engineering BT, Inc. Buckalew Frizzell & Crevina LLP Capital One Bank, N.A. New Jersey Clearview Washing, LLC Cowleys Pest Services Curcio Mirzaian Sirot, LLC Cutolo Barros, LLC Dior Construction, Roofing, and Siding

Environmental Designers Irrigation, Inc FirstService Residential, AAMC FloodCo USA Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP Griffin Alexander, P.C. Guardian Service Industries, Inc. Innovative Pressure Cleaning The Jesan Companies JGS Insurance, a Baldwin Risk Partner KPI2 Enterprises, Inc. Lemus Construction, Inc. Mackoul Risk Solutions, LLC

Preferred Community Management Services, Inc., AAMC Radom & Wetter Renda Roads, Inc. Snowscapes South Shore Construction, LLC STAR Building Services Two Men Property Services Group, Inc. Popular Association Banking Quality 1st Contracting, Inc. Rainbow - G & J Painting, LLC Regal Restoration USA Republic Services of New Jersey, LLC SageWater Servpro of Howell/Wall Stark & Stark Attorneys at Law Valley Bank Wilkin Management Group, Inc. Witczak Engineering One Call Roofing & Siding O & S Associates, Inc. Parallel Architectural Group Pardini R. Construction Corporation PeopleFirst Property & Casualty Services

Morris Engineering, LLC National Contractors, Inc. National Cooperative Bank

Garden State Pavement Solutions Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla Hueston McNulty, P.C. L.N. Rothberg & Son, Inc. Landscape Maintenance Services, Inc. Mizza Pest Control

Accurate Reconstruction APC Hospitality, LLC AR Management Company Association Advisors NJ CCA, Construction Consulting Associates, LLC Felsen Insurance Services, Inc. First Onsite

MyPropertyBilling.com Pacific Western Bank

YOUR NJ-LAC & CA-PAC WORKING HARD PROTECTING THE INTERESTS OF COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS

Walk the halls of our capitol in Trenton and you see a lot of doors… doors to legislator’s offices… doors to committee rooms… doors to the Assembly and Senate chambers. It takes a lot to get through those doors. You’re not just invited in. You need a key. With a key you’re taken seriously. With a key, you get things done. THAT’S WHY CAI-NJ CARRIES THREE KEYS: • Your Legislative Action Committee (NJ-LAC): Your key eyes, ears, legs and voice in the legislative process. • Your Political Action Committee (CA-PAC): Your key contributions to support elected officials who aim to strengthen your community. • Your Professional Lobbyists: Your key, full-time pros retained by the LAC who know government’s ins and outs, advise us on who to see and when, and how to connect . WHAT CAN YOU DO?: • Take Action – Your voice is key! After meeting with elected officials and clarifying our position on pending legislation, we will alert you to the most crucial actions you can take. By calling or writing your officials, you ensure that your voice, and our agenda, is heard. • Give – Your donations are key! Supporting the PAC with your donations shows legislators that you’re serious, and that our cause counts. • Promote – Your personal influence is key! Talk about CAI-NJ’s legislative engagement in your community and business. Let fellow residents know that we’re fighting for them and their communities!

The keys only work with your support.

Make your gift to the CA-PAC today!

Yes, I’d like to support CA-PAC with a pledge!

PLEASE NOTE: Sorry, CA-PAC cannot accept credit cards. Please make your CORPORATE or PERSONAL CHECK payable and mail to: CA-PAC, 500 Harding Road, Freehold, NJ 07728

I AM A...

____ Community Association Manager. You represent a company or association who manages CAI-NJ communities.

____ Community Supporter. You represent a business that supports CAI-NJ communities with services or products.

____ Community Resident. You live in a CAI-NJ community and want to see it grow strong.

My Association/Management company is making a PAC gift of:

___ $250 ___ $500 ___ $1000 or $________

___ $100 ___ $250 ___ $500 or $________

My supporting business is making a PAC gift of:

I am personally making a PAC gift of:

___ $50 ___ $100 ___ $250 or $________

Community/Company: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Individual Name:_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address:______________________________________________________________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP:______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone:_________________________________________________________Fax: ________________________________________________ Email:________________________________ Occupation:______________________ Employer:_____________________________________ Employer Address:___________________________________________________________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP:______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sorry, CA-PAC cannot accept credit cards. Please make your CORPORATE or PERSONAL CHECK payable and mail to: CA-PAC, 500 Harding Road, Freehold, NJ 07728

Management Company Name: _________________________________________ (Community Association’s Only)

DO NOT INCLUDE MY NAME OR COMPANY ON THE LIST OF CA-PAC CONTRIBUTORS

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission requires us to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of the employer of contributors whose contribution exceeds $300 in a calendar year. Contributions to CA-PAC are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are not limited to suggested amounts. CA-PAC will not favor nor disadvantage anyone based upon the amounts or failure to make PAC Contributions. Voluntary political contributions are subject to limitations of ELEC regulations. CA-PAC contributions are not considered payment of CAI dues. TO DONATE TO CA-PAC, SEND CONTRIBUTIONS TO : CA-PAC, 500 Harding Road, Freehold, NJ 07728

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE... from page 8.

Amendments to Planned Real Estate Development Full Disclosure Act - Reserves • Developer Requirements to Provide Plans/Specifications and Preventative Maintenance (PM) Schedule - Developer shall provide the association with the plans and specifications utilized in construction, including plans setting forth all field changes impacting any structural components - Developer must identify the PM tasks to be undertaken by the association and budget to support. • Community Association (CA) Requirement for Capital Reserve Studies - CA is required to undertake and fund a capital reserve study (adequacy study to establish money to be set aside for future replacements and maintenance) that shall determine the funds anticipated for the cost of replacement or repair of CA assets. - Study shall conform to Community Association Institute’s National Reserve Study Standards. - CA that haven’t conducted a capital reserve study within 5 years of the effective date of the legislation, have 1 year to do so. - New association’s must conduct reserve study as soon as practicable after the election of a majority of a res ident owner executive board but no later than 2 years from effective date of legislation. - Reserve studies thereafter must be undertaken at least every 5 years • Community Association Funding of Capital Reserves - An association must obtain a reserve study including a 30-year funding plan in order to increase the like lihood that funds will be available without the need for a special assessment or loan obligation, which is then characterized as a deficiency. The reserve study shall include cost of structural inspections for a covered building. The type of funding plan will be in the discre tion of the executive board. - If, following the effective date of the bill it is determined that funding in the capital reserve account is deficient and could result in a more than 10% increase in common expense assessment to catch up, then the deficiency must be recovered in not more than ten (10) fiscal years, to CONTINUES ON PAGE 52

- Excluded structures are single family residences and frame buildings constructed with combustible walls and roofs, unless supported by the structures men tioned above. Typical and traditional townhomes are not included. • New Building Construction Inspection Requirements for Covered Buildings - Structural inspection is required during and upon com pletion of the construction. - No certificate of occupancy may be issued without a written report from licensed structural inspector con firming the primary load bearing system conforms with approved construction plans. - For buildings being converted to condominium or cooperative, a structural inspection report shall be issued as part of the Planned Real Estate Full Disclosure registration process. • New and Existing Building Inspection Requirements for Covered Buildings - All covered buildings with a certificate of occupancy (C.O.) must have their first inspection, post adoption of the legislation, within the earlier of:  One day to 5 years old, within 6 years – Max is11 years  5 years and one day to 10 years old , within 4 years – Max is 14 years  10 years and one day or longer, within 2 years – Max is12 years - Structural inspector (NJ licensed professional engineer) must issue a written report identifying any necessary corrective maintenance (repairs) needed by the pri mary load bearing system to the building owner. The reports shall be made available to any building resi dent and the municipal construction official. - Structural inspector shall determine a reasonable period of time for next inspection but in no event will it be more than 10 years following the first inspection during the first 20 years following the C.O. issuance or more than 5 years if the building is older than 20 years.

JULY 2023

Going Green to Save Green By Casey Sky Noon, CoolSys Energy Design

A s energy costs and scrutiny of emissions continue to increase, we are likely to hear the phrase, “Go green to save green,” until we turn blue. The question is whether or not solar panels, LED lighting, high-efficiency mechanical equipment, electrification, and other “green” initiatives actually keep your budget out of the red. Whether your community association changes out a single incandescent light bulb for an LED one or opts to undergo a large-scale capital improvement project, there are many state and utility-based incentives and rebates available to decrease your return on investment (ROI) time. Because it may sound too good to be true, here are examples of communities that went green and did in fact save some green.

LEDs Lighten the Electricity Load for Multiple NJ Community Associations

According to www.energy.gov, LEDs use 75% less energy to operate than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. An easy switch with a fast return on investment, multiple community associations including Cider Mill Professional Condo Association in Livingston, Bridge Plaza Association in Manalapan, Clinton Plaza in Fairfield, Dobbins Plaza in Verona, and Powder Mill Condos in Riverdale have upgraded their common area interior and exterior lighting to LEDs using government or utility rebate programs, along with inter est-free financing from PSEG. Cedarcrest Property Management President Thomas Chilenski, CMCA reports that the average return on investment (ROI) for these communities is just two years. “Plus,” he said, “the energy savings after that will save them nearly 70% on prior energy costs.” Solar Brightened The Ponds’ Budget

The Ponds is a 55+ community with 577 homes in Monroe, Township, NJ. From July 2015 to July 2016, the association’s electricity bill ranged from $3,200 to $7,200, with an average cost of $4,800. It was paying $120k per year for electricity. With those high figures in mind, the board decided to investigate solar panels to generate electricity on-site. Fast forward to 2023— The Ponds now enjoys carport coverings and a patio pergola with a photovoltaic system in its clubhouse parking lot. The solar power system includes over 500 modules, each of which can produce up to 370 watts of electricity. “It has had a huge impact on our budget,” said Board President Mark Maloney. The community is seeing annual savings of over 25%. “Plus, we get the added bonus of coverage from the sun in the summer and snow in the winter.”

BrianAJackson/iStock/Getty Images Plus

CONTINUES ON PAGE 16

JULY 2023

A RTHUR E DWARDS I NC . Experts in Community Association Management with over 35 years of Experience Serving NJ, NY, PA  People with expertise, resources and commitment  People who work as hard as you to get results  People who know every day is an opportunity to learn something new Talk to us… 201-722-9600 Together we can achieve success! info@arthuredwardsinc.com www.arthuredwardsinc.com We've learned the success of a community is easier when you have:  People you can rely on  People who listen

Corporate Headquarters 210 Broadway ♦ Hillsdale NJ 07642

Northwest Regional, NJ

Pennsylvania

25 Route 23

425 Fayette Street #309 Conshohocken, PA 19428

Franklin, NJ 07416

GOING GREEN... from page 14.

The work was well worth the effort. Despite the increased cost of energy ($7.32 per thousand cubic feet in April 2018 verse $11.69 in April 2022), the association spent only $60k on gas and $125k on electricity in 2022. Together, that is over 20% savings. Green Overhaul at Llewellyn Gates for 50% Reduction in Energy Costs Constructed in the 1950s, the Llewellyn Gates Condo development in West Orange, NJ consists of 80 units in 7 buildings. The community took on a full modernization/ energy savings program through PSEG which included interest-free financing and government rebates ($400k in savings) that accounted for half of the project cost. Llewellyn Gates upgraded to energy-efficient boilers, hot water heaters, and LED lighting. It also installed insulation in all common areas and attic spaces. The immediate savings covered the interest-free financing for the upgrades and the balance will be paid off in just seven years. After that, the combined energy savings will save the association 50% on their prior energy costs. “We are extremely proud of this project,” said Cedarcrest CONTINUES ON PAGE 18

New Boiler/Chiller Plant for a Better Bottom Line at Bellaire House Bellaire House Condominium Association is a 7-story residential building in Upper Montclair, NJ. With aging mechanical equipment on site, the community paid $70K on natural gas and $170k on electricity in 2018 and decided it was time to upgrade to a more efficient system. Boiler efficiency is measured in an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) percentage rate, which is the ratio of the boiler’s annual heat output compared to its total annual fos sil fuel energy consumed. Older boilers have 56% to 70% AFUE, whereas today’s high-efficient equipment options have an AFU of up to 98.5%. Similarly, modern chillers are vastly more energy-efficient than their older counterparts as mea sured by their coefficient of performance (COP). Hoping to realize the savings of more efficient equipment, Bellaire House Condominium Association opted to install a new boiler and chiller plant to integrate into the existing building infrastructure.

Over 35 Years of History

For over 35 years, Wilkin Management Group has held to an unshakeable corporate philosophy of Creating Value for Our Clients.

With locations in Northern and Central NJ. Visit us on the web at www.WilkinGrp.com | 201.560.0900

JULY 2023

GOING GREEN... from page 16.

Property Management President Thomas Chilenski, CMCA. “The board and residents are very happy with the results and huge savings.”

“The immediate savings covered the interest free financing for the upgrades and the balance will be paid off in just seven years.”

Overall, reducing energy con sumption and harnessing renewable energy are practical tasks that will decrease the nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, soot, mercury, and lead pollution that come from burning fossil fuels while also saving you money. As you can see from these examples, going “green” is not only good for the planet but also good for a community association’s bottom line. n

Servicing: New Jersey • New York Pennsylvania • Connecticut

888-404-4321 www.accuratereconstruction.com Insurance Reconstruction Experts

ATTENTION ALL CAI-NJ SEMINAR ATTENDEES:

Please remember to keep your seminar completion certificates in a safe place. These certificates are distributed at the end of each CAI-NJ seminar. This is proof that you attended and completed the seminar. You may need to reference the certificate in the future and CAI-NJ does not keep track of each member’s attendance record. Community manag ers will definitely need the certificates to obtain credit for continuing educa tion towards their designations.

Returning families to their homes since 1985

To Advertise Call 888-445-7946 or email info@brainerdcommunications.com.

JULY 2023

Sponsored by:

How Associations Can Benefit Financially from Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCs) By Joe Desimone, Greenspot

Lyudinka/iStock/Getty Images Plus

A s the automotive market shifts from the long-stand ing internal combustion engine to zero-emission vehicles, common interest community associations (CICs) all over the country have a very important decision to make: install charging stations now or wait? The reasons to start now are extensive and financially beneficial, which will be covered in detail throughout this article, but the option of waiting must also be addressed. The three most common points associations use to justi fy waiting are: (1) electric vehicles (EVs) may not be here to stay, (2) the technology may change, and (3) the cost of EV chargers may decrease in the future. These three justifications ultimately are not convincing: (1) If EVs are not here to stay, the entire automotive industry would not be shifting gears to react to gov ernment requirements. (2) In terms of technology, think of an EV as a giant cell phone and then think of how often the way we charge our phones has changed. Just like EV charging connectors are changing, cell phone con nectors have changed over the last 30 years, but most of the time we still plug them into the same power outlet. The newest technology, like wirelessly charging our cell phones, is inductive charging for

EVs. As we know, wireless charging is not as fast or efficient but provides more options to charge. The idea will be the same for EVs, but the use cases will vary and are not yet known. At the end of the day, we are supplying energy to a battery and that technology will not change. (3) Lastly, EV chargers are simply a means to distribute a commodity (electricity) at wholesale levels, and we know the demand will continue to increase over time. Basic economics in the commodity world explain that as demand goes up, so do prices. Our expectation is that both the cost of the hardware and the commodity will increase over time, not the other way around. The available energy to keep EVs on the road will continuously be constrained as the number of EVs and the population grows. Now that it’s a clear decision to move forward with implementing an EV charging solution, below are the reasons why this is important and how associations can benefit. The reasons to start now are the following: higher occupancy rates and long-term compounding financial benefits. Very soon, if not already, current and prospective unit owners and residents will require EV charging. “Require”

JULY 2023

is a strong word, but people will have many options to live elsewhere, and in a few short years they will not have the option to drive something other than an EV. Therefore, they’ll be looking to live somewhere with the most convenient option to recharge. If a particular association does not have options, prospective pur chasers with EVs will choose an alternative association with better EV charging options. Said plainly, without EV chargers, occupancy rates will decrease. The long-term financial benefits are subtle, requiring a dive deep into relevant economic considerations, including grants, rebates, parking considerations, vendor business models, and revenue or profit sharing. Grant and Rebate Incentives: On average, grants and rebates may cover around 40% of the cost to install an EV charger. Grants and rebates are incentives, whereby grants typically come from the federal or state government and rebates are typically award ed by public utility companies. The grants are applied toward things like the charging station hardware and installation. Rebates are applied generally to the installation of the infrastructure between the charging station and connection to the electrical grid. Grants are more difficult to get awarded and are more competitive than rebates. The process can be difficult to navigate, so it may be helpful to have an EV charging service provider onboard.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 28

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION BANKING Your experts in the HOA industry.

With First Citizens Community Association Banking, formerly part of the bank’s CIT division, you can count on continued service from the experts you know. And as one of the nation’s top 20 banks, we offer market-leading products matched with innovation and award-winning 1 technology to help you grow your business. Your community association management company deserves no less than a financial provider that can bring you the scale, service and capabilities you need to stay ahead.

Nicole Skaro, VP, Regional Account Executive nicole.skaro@firstcitizens.com | 908-524-8741

firstcitizens.com

JULY 2023

EVCS... from page 27.

Parking Considerations: Forget the notion that an association can offer its commu nity free EV charging as an amenity. It’s simply not a viable solution once most people are driving EVs, as the cost of electricity will not be sustainable. Over the next 10 years, we estimate that charging stations will encompass up to 80% of the parking spaces in common interest communities (CICs). This is tough to imagine, but all the indicators are there and the challenges for a community will be immense if you do not make the right decisions early in the process. An association community usually has deeded or assigned parking for residents with a smaller number of common parking spaces for anyone to use. To future-proof communities for the influx of EVs, associations should fill common parking spaces with EV chargers as there is demand, potentially upgrade to faster chargers over time if it starts running out of common spaces, and, at the same time, offer a single-provider solution for deeded or assigned parking. This is also the best strategy for financial gain, as the association will be able to make revenue from common CONTINUES ON PAGE 30

If a community has a large amount of common parking and a healthy budget with room for capital improvements, they may want to consider investing in the installation of common amenity charging stations. This is a complex task, but the benefit may be worth it if done right. The main ben efit is that the association would be able to collect some, if not all, of the revenue generated from people using it. If the association can cover all the expenses and generate some profit, then it is possible for the association to recover the investment. However, models show that without economies of scale through a provider solution, it may never recover full return of the investment, and the association must be prepared to take some risk. Most communities will not have enough common parking available to provide enough EV charging capacity in the long run, so considerate is important to explore other alternatives based on parking designations.

We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com

www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com

Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA Commercial Real Estate 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

• Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services

Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

28 JULY 2023 Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals.

Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64

Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software