Special Points of InterestVolume 17, Number 4July/August 2013

Published six times annually

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• Christmas Parade Preparation Update ...................... page 2• Four Candidates Vie for Two Director Positions ..... page 3• The GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club ............... page 3 • Fishing in Rotonda West Canals and Ponds: Part II page 7

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See Commissioner Truex continued on page 2

Rotonda West residents who are members of the Englewood Community Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters gather for a presentation of the BBBS “Outstanding Organization Partner of the Year Award” to the RWA. From left are Jim Laurent; David Kelly, RWA Director who accepted the award; Danica Harris, Natalie Anderson, BBBS’s Englewood Mentor Manager; Cookie Fletcher, Don Mahon and Ted Kern. Not pictured is Mary Jo Holleran. Photo by Sue Killion.

Commissioner Truex Offers a Wide Range of CommentsBy Don MahonBill Truex is in his first year as Charlotte County Commissioner representing District 3 that includes Rotonda West and has been a resident of our community for 22 years. The Commissioner was a special guest at a recent meeting of an informal Rotonda West group who call themselves the Gentlemen’s Breakfast Club. The club meets periodically for socializing, conversation and to hear a frequent speaker. Twenty were in attendance recently to listen to Commissioner Truex address county issues, with many impacting Rotonda West. Subjects ranged from MSBUs, stocking canals with grass carp, impact fees, bridge lighting in our community, a county penny sales tax in 2014, pristine condition of the canals, and the status of a much needed traffic light at the dangerous intersection of Winchester Boulevard and State Road 776 in Englewood. One member who works on Rotonda West projects with the County commented that the lack of detailed county policies often lead to confusion and delayed progress. Commissioner Truex promised he would look into it. In response to a question from another member about his position on the RWA’s acquisition of Broadmoor Park, he said, “I like to see progress and improvements. The park is an opportunity to have something pretty cool in our neighborhood.”

RWA Named Outstanding Partner by Big Brothers Big SistersBy Don MahonThe Rotonda West Association has been selected as the “2012-2013 Organization Partner of the Year” by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. About 200 organizations, corporations and faith-based groups are eligible for the individual awards each year. The RWA Partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters was created in April of 2012. Key figures in seeing it come to fruition were David Kelly, a member of the RWA Board and Board Liaison of the Community Relations Committee, and Jim Laurent representing Big Brothers Big Sisters. The selection of the RWA was based on the level of participation of the organization. Some 30 residents are active mentors, called “Bigs,” and are matched with deserving kids. Six residents serve on the Englewood Community Board. They are Ted Kern, Jim Laurent, Danica Harris, “Cookie” Fletcher, Mary Jo Holleran, and Don Mahon. Jim is chairman of the Partnership Committee with Don as a committee member. Charlotte County and nine other counties on the West Coast of Florida are within the footprint of the Sun Coast chapter, ranging from Tampa to Naples. The Bradenton Kiwanis Club won the organization award last year. An awards presentation was made on August 13 at the Community Center by Gina Taylor, Sun Coast Vice President of Marketing & Communications. David Kelly and several Board members were present. The Mission of BBBS is to provide school-age kids facing diversity with strong and enduring one-to-one relationships that forge better lives and for all kids to achieve success in life. Some two dozen kids are waiting to be matched with mentors in the Englewood area. For information, call Natalie Anderson, Mentor Manager, at (941) 473-4003, or email her at nanderson@bbbssun.org.

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President’s MessageBy Glynn Perkins

Commissioner Truex, – continued from page 1

As I write this, Julie and I are enjoying some relaxation away from home. I hope you have been enjoying your summer wherever you have spent it. Once we return to Rotonda West, I will be concentrating on several of our significant projects and events, such

as going forward with the construction of sidewalks along the three boulevards, the consideration of taking the vacant lot mowing in house, the Christmas Holiday Parade, and the development of short and long-range plans for Broadmoor Park. These are all action items to work on as we get set to welcome back the “snow birds” after the holidays. As always, I welcome your input and constructive involvement as members of this community and thank you for your support.

“Christmas Parade Committee at their preparations workshop. Front, left to right Ginni Mahon, Linda Bondeson, and “Christy” (the event mascot). Standing Wayne Mengel, Event Chairman Earl Haas, Hank Killion and Ruth Sargent. Other committee members missing from the picture are Russ Kulp, David Kelly, and Sue Killion who took the picture.” Photo by Sue Killion.

Christmas Parade Preparation UpdateBy Russ KulpIs it Christmas in July and August? No, not really! It is the time of year, however, when the small group of Parade Committee volunteers must begin to ramp up activity in preparing for this year’s Christmas Parade to be held on Saturday, December 7th (the rain date is Sunday the 8th), starting at 2 p.m. The group held a planning workshop on July 11th. In attendance were Event Chairman Earl Haas, Linda Bondeson, Ginni Mahon, Ruth Sargent, and Hank and Sue Killion. Co-Chairman Russ Kulp was away and unable to attend, as was David Kelly. This will be the Seventh Annual Christmas Holiday Parade which has become a popular tradition in this community and surrounding areas, attracting thousands of spectators along the almost three-mile route. Chairman Haas recently remarked that “our parade attracts a wide variety of organizations and businesses in the region and requires months and months of planning; and, we are fortunate to have hard-working and dedicated residents on our committee.” The Parade Committee used the planning workshop to develop a number of deliverables and establish a work timeline. Linda Bondeson immediately sprang into action and designed and produced the first key item, a double-sided brochure that will also be used as a registration or entry form for individuals and organizations participating in this year’s event. This brochure/entry form will be mailed in early September to all of last year’s participants and those who have already expressed an interest to the Committee about entering this year but were not here in 2012. The entry form must be completed, signed, and returned before November 10, 2013. If you were a participant last year and have not received the mailed entry form by the end of September, or if you are a new prospective participant this year and need a form, you may do any of the following to get one: (1.) go to the Rotonda West website (www.rotondawest.org), click on the Christmas Parade link, and download the form; (2.) email Linda at rotondawestchristmasparade@gmail.com and request one; or call Earl at 941-698-9207.

Once you have a completed and signed entry form, you may (1.) mail it before November 10th to: Rotonda West Association Parade, 891 Boundary Blvd., Rotonda West, FL 33947 or (2.) email the PDF Entry Form to: rotondawestchristmasparade@gmail.com. The Committee hopes and expects that even more participants than last year will be in this year’s parade, including first responders, veterans groups, civic and service clubs, clowns, groups with horses, youth and senior organizations, sports teams, various area businesses, and more. Once all the forms are returned and sorted, complete parade packages with instructions will be mailed to each entrant before the parade date. There is no fee for entering the parade. If you are interested, we definitely want you to be a part of this year’s event. Floats will be judged by a select panel with a prize awarded; and, Santa will be riding on one designated float near the end of the parade. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to call Event Chairman Earl Haas at 941-698-9207.

He went on to say that issues of this magnitude will always bring people with differing opinions. He also said in his 22 years as a Rotonda West resident, he has seen tremendous progress. “The mowing of vacant lots is, in my opinion, a no-brainer if we are to maintain a well-groomed community and the beautification of the entrances is refreshing to come home to.” He offered the opinion that these are two big reasons that set this community apart from others in our area. John Carroll, a community activist, initiated the idea of a Breakfast Club and organizes meetings.

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Four Candidates Vie for Two Director PositionsBy Donna KrabbeThe RWA Election Committee announces four candidates for two Director Positions available in the upcoming election. We are pleased four individuals have declared themselves candidates for RWA Director and are willing to volunteer their time and talents.Candidates in the order they will appear on the ballot as determined by a double blind drawing at the Election Committee meeting, August 9, 2013:

Steven PelusoJoseph Del BonisHenry KillionRuss Kulp

Election Packets will be mailed the beginning of October. The candidates’ statements and ballots will be included in the packet, along with other pertinent documents.Candidates’ Night is scheduled for Thursday, October 17, 2013, 7:00 pm at the Rotonda West American Legion Post 113. Candidates will be available for questions from the audience. Please plan to attend.

Newcomers to be prepped on Community AmenitiesBy Don MahonThe tenth in a series of Newcomers Receptions for new residents will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 21 at the Community Center, 3754 Cape Haze Drive. All residents are welcome to attend. Representatives of RWA committees, social and service organizations that serve the community will be on hand to describe their services and to answer questions. Many informative displays will be set up around the meeting room. Refreshments will be served. Invitations will be mailed to new residents. The Reception is held twice during the year, in March and November. The idea was proposed five years ago to the Community Relations Committee by RWA Manager Jay Lyons and the committee has sponsored the event ever since. It’s estimated that nearly 1,000 residents, new and not-so-new, have attended the event. Event chairperson is Linda Bondeson. Call her at 941 548-1384 for more information. Sue Artz chaired the event since its inception and has passed the baton to Linda.

The GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club Sets Its Fall ScheduleBy Russ KulpAfter a summer with many members vacationing out of the area, the GFWC (General Federation of Woman’s Clubs) Rotonda West Woman’s Club is ready to resume its very active agenda. Completing last year’s successful endeavors, President Charlotte Arcadia attended the GFWC International Convention held in Hollywood, Florida, June 28th through July 1st. The event was attended by roughly 800 club women from throughout the United States, Aruba, Curacao, the Netherlands Antilles, and the Grand Bahamas. Needless to say, Charlotte will have a lot to tell Rotonda West Club members about her experiences at the convention. This year’s schedule starts with the first meeting of the Club on September 12th at the Rotonda West American Legion Post #113. The meeting’s main program will be presented by the Conservation Committee and Robbie Rogers of Cedar Point Park. Following that kick-off will be the meeting of the Fall Board for the State of Florida on September 20th through the 22nd at the Rosen Plaza in Orlando. That, in turn, will be followed by the Annual Meeting of District #12, which will be hosted by the GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club. Special guests at that gathering will be Carol Weaver, President-Elect of the GFWC Florida, and Dara Bergdoll, current Director of Junior Clubs for the State of Florida. On October 19th, the Club will sponsor a Tea to be held at the Community Presbyterian Church in Englewood. Tickets to that affair are $18; and, proceeds will benefit two worthy service organizations. The first of these is C.A.R.E. (Center for Abuse and Rape Emergencies), based in Punta Gorda with a service area that includes Englewood. The other is

Backpak Kids, also based in Punta Gorda. This organization provides back packs of food for needy children to take home on the weekend. The kids then return these packs on Monday, so they can be refilled for the next weekend. The Myaaka River School is one place that benefits from the Backpak Kids Program. Meanwhile, even during the summer with those members who were here, the “Crafting Cuties” have been busy every Friday morning at the Community Center making various items for the Annual Arts & Apples Fare. That event will take place on November 2nd at the Tringali Center on North Access Road in Englewood. Several charities supported by the GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club will benefit from this endeavor. Anyone interested in becoming a member of this very active club should contact Membership Chairman Anne Jameson at 941-697-4552 or President Charlotte Arcadia at 941-697-8758.

(Left) Ann Friauf displays the material used to make “hair”(Right) Elaine Claussen at sewing machine

(Left) Bert Sullivan painting wooden reindeer(Right) Sandra Rahwan, Rotonda Heights resident, painting bases for angels

Photos by Sue Killion.

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Manager’s ReportBy Jay Lyons, ManagerRotonda West Association

We receive calls every day from owners complaining they have received a Deed Restriction violation letter for a Deed Restriction of which they were not aware. The following list does not include every Deed Restriction and the description of the Deed Restriction has been condensed for the purpose of this article but the list does reflect the violations we encounter most often. Submit a Residential Modification Application and obtain approval for any addition, alteration, modification or repair to the exterior of your property. Landscaping, such as grass, trees, plants, etc. do not require approval.Sheds, Temporary Storage Units and Accessory Buildings are not allowed unless the structure was in existence as of July 19, 1995. These structures shall not be enlarged or moved and if the structure is damaged or destroyed where the damage exceeds more than fifty percent (50%) of the replacement cost, it shall not be reconstructed. If the Lot/Tract is sold, any shed or temporary storage unit must be removed.Pets – Animals: All pets must be carried, leashed or otherwise restrained at all times when outside of a dwelling or a fully-enclosed fenced Lot/Tract. No pets shall be permitted to roam freely. All pets shall be licensed by the appropriate State or local authorities. Each Owner shall immediately remove their pets’ feces from Lots/Tracts and Common Area.Nuisance – Nothing shall be done on a Lot/Tract or the Common Areas which is or may become an unreasonable annoyance or nuisance to any person or which would not be consistent with the maintenance of the highest standards, for a first class residential community.Dwelling Maintenance, Landscaping and Lot Care – Any improved Lot/Tract containing a dwelling or other improvement shall be maintained so that the lawn shall not exceed a height of eight (8) inches including weeds. No underbrush or other unsightly growth shall be permitted to grow or remain upon any such Lot/Tract. All lawns, landscaping and sprinkler systems and any such Lot/Tract improvements and appurtenances shall be kept in a safe, clean, orderly and attractive condition.Trash, Garbage and Outside Equipment – Except on the day immediately preceding the day of collection and the day of collection, trash containers shall be kept inside the garage or within a site-screened area. Bottled gas tanks, swimming pool equipment, sprinkler pumps, generators and any such outdoor equipment, excluding air conditioning units and pool heaters, shall be kept in a site-screened area so that they shall not be Readily Visible.Maintenance And Improvements within the Canal Area – When an Improved Lot/Tract which borders a canal is improved with a Dwelling, it is the Lot/Tract Owner’s responsibility, to also finish grade, sod and mow the area between any property line and the water’s edge of the canal.

Signs – No signs freestanding or otherwise shall be displayed on any Lot/Tract zoned for residential use or in any road right-of-way in Rotonda West, without the prior written approval from the Association. All signs displayed on any Lot/Tract zoned for residential use shall be limited to a main body size of twelve inches (12”) by eighteen inches (18”) or less. Sign location shall be restricted to the front of the Lot/Tract and may not face any lake, pond, canal or golf course. The Association shall have the authority to enter on the Lot/Tract and remove any non-approved sign or sign that is not in an approved location.Garage or Lawn Sales – All garage or lawn sales require a permit from the Association and are not to exceed three (3) consecutive days duration and shall be conducted no more than twice in each calendar year. Signs advertising such event shall only be placed on property approved by the Association and shall be removed at the conclusion of the sale.Vehicles & Parking – All vehicles, other than automobiles, pick-up trucks, SUV’s, vans, motorcycles or other vehicles as may be approved from time to time at the sole discretion of the Grantor/Developer or Association must be parked in a fully enclosed garage. Any vehicle containing any commercial advertising signage parked on a driveway overnight cannot exceed four wheels. Box trucks are prohibited. No vehicle may be parked on any lawn, road right of way, easement or vacant Lot/Tract, except on a temporary basis, not to exceed 12 hours and only for the necessary construction, repair or maintenance of an Improved Lot/Tract or Unimproved Lot/Tract. Unregistered and/or inoperable vehicles must be stored in a garage.Overnight Vehicle Pass – In order to alleviate any hardship upon any Lot/Tract Owner or Dwelling occupant, a pass may be issued by the Association allowing a vehicle to be parked in a driveway overnight for a total of six (6) nights in a thirty day (30) consecutive period for the convenience of loading or unloading a boat, motor home, camper or camper trailer. No more than two (2) three (3) day passes shall be issued within a thirty (30) day consecutive period and no passes issued by the Association can run consecutively. There must be a minimum of seven (7) day period between issuance of passes.Owners Responsibilities – All Owners shall be responsible for any and all violations of these Restrictions by their family members, tenants, guests and invitees and by family member’s guests and invites of the tenants. All Dwellings shall have a house number that will be Readily Visible from the street. Deed Restriction Enforcement – Fines – The Association may levy fines against a Lot/Tract Owner, or the Lot/Tract Owner’s tenants, guests or invites, or both, who commit violations of Chapter 720, Florida Statutes and/or the provisions of the Governing Documents, as they may be amended from time to time. Fines shall be in amounts deemed necessary by the Board to deter future violations, but in no event shall any fine for a single violation exceed the maximum amount allowed by law. A fine may be levied on the basis of each day of continuing violation, with a single notice and opportunity for hearing, except that no such fine shall exceed $5,000.00 in the aggregate.Copies of the Deed Restrictions are available on our web site at www.rotondawest.org or we will mail copies to any email request received at info@rotondawest.org or copies are readily available at the Association office at 3754 Cape Haze Drive, Rotonda West.

HOW TO AVOID DEED RESTRICTION VIOLATION LETTERS AND FINES

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Summary of Board Meeting Minutes

See Minutes cont. on page 6

Regular Meeting, May 15, 2013Board Members Present: Glynn Perkins (Chair), George Burger, Hank Killion, Scott Schermerhorn, Andy VanScyoc, David Kelly, and Peter TraversoManagement Present: Jay Lyons, Manager, and Dianne Brophy, TranscriberAt the start of the meeting, Chairman Perkins announced that the former Pinemoor East Golf Course property will now be referred to as Broadmoor Park. The sales contract was signed and exchanged; and, the transfer is expected to be recorded by the County today. The Association has been threatened with a law suit on the purchase of this property. While this matter is pending litigation, the Board will not respond to questions on this subject.As part of the Treasurer’s report, Director Killion moved that the Board of Directors transfer $589.50 to the Reserve Account to balance the monthly statement. Director Burger seconded the motion; and, it carried unanimously.Manager Lyons reported that the vacant lot mowing has begun and is expected to be completed soon. He also stated that the dedication to former Director Bruce Miller of the multi-purpose bike path at Parade Circle on April 30th was well attended. Manager Lyons also reported: (1) that quotes are being received to replace mulch, flowers and dead trees at the community entrances; (2) quotes are being requested to reseal and restripe the Community Center parking lot and also reseal the paved area of Oakland Hills Marina; and (3) the fence at the defunct tennis court on Golfview Road has been removed.As part of the Beautification Committee report, Rotonda West MSBU Chairman John Peszko reported that sidewalks planned on Boulevards West, North and East have been delayed because Charlotte County Utilities wants water mains replaced on Boulevard East from the MSBU funds. He indicated that the MSBU

Regular Meeting, June 12, 2013Board Members Present: Glynn Perkins (Chairman), George Burger, Hank Killion, Andy VanScyoc, David Kelly, and Peter TraversoBoard Member Absent: Scott SchermerhornManagement Present: Jay Lyons, Manager, and Dianne Brophy, TranscriberAn Association member raised the issue that the notice of this meeting had not been posted the required 48 hours in advance; and, suggested that the Board should adjourn the meeting and that any motions and votes would not be valid. Manager Lyons stated that a staff member had been out sick and the notice went out a day late; but, that the meeting had been posted well in advance on the RWA website and

on the bulletin board at the Community Center. Director Perkins stated that he would entertain a motion to adjourn the meeting; however, no such motion was made. The meeting continued.A couple of Association members raised issues regarding Broadmoor Park; however, the Board elected not to discuss them at this time, except that Director Killion indicated in response to one question that Broadmoor Park was fully insured the day it was purchased. Director Killion then discussed with the Board the proposal to impose an Estoppel fee which had been raised at the previous meeting. Director Killion moved that the Board of Directors institute an Estoppel fee of $50.00 beginning July 1, 2013. Director VanScyoc seconded the motion. After brief further consideration, the motion carried unanimously.Manager Lyons reported that the second cycle of vacant lot mowing has commenced and that four quotes have been received to mow Broadmoor Park and that he is seeking authorization to advertise for bids for four additional Broadmoor Park mows by the end of the year to coincide with the other vacant lot mowing.Director Killion moved the Board of Directors approve the 5-Year Plan for the Aquatic Committee. Director Burger seconded the motion. The Board then discussed elements of the plan and potential changes that might be needed in the deed restrictions relative to illegal dumping in the canals. The Aquatic/Canal Committee will do a report on the water quality within the canals at a future time. The motion then carried unanimously.Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors appoint Bob Barrett to the Beautification Committee for as long as necessary or as long as he wishes to continue serving. Director Killion seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously.The Board discussed invasive species of foliage on the greenbelts and vacant lots. Manager Lyons stated that there are reserve funds available for greenbelt and

swale clearing. He identified the priority of spending that money to be those instances where invasive species are encroaching on improved lots which has the potential for wind and or fire damage. A process has been established to notice lot owners where invasive species are a problem and, if they do not voluntarily comply in rectifying the problem, to clear the lots and place a lien on those properties. Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors authorize the Manager to go out to bid to clear 100 lots of invasive plant species. Director Traverso seconded the motion; and, it carried unanimously.Director Perkins moved to have the Board of Directors award a single, one-cut contract for Broadmoor Park to Hedges-by-Hedges for $2,000.00. Director Burger seconded the motion: and, it carried unanimously.Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors authorize the Manager to go out to bid for four (4) additional cuts to the Broadmoor Park area for the remainder of this year in line with the vacant lot mowing schedule. Director Kelly seconded the motion. A discussion followed about the timing of this proposed contract and the possibility that the vacant lot mowing would be taken in house by the RWA by the end of the year. Director Perkins amended his motion and moved that the Board of Directors authorize the Manager to go out to bid for three (3) more cuts to the Broadmoor Park area for the remainder of this year in line with the current vacant lot mowing schedule. Director Kelly seconded this motion. The motion carried unanimously.The Board then learned from John Peszko, Chairman of the MSBU, that the project for bike paths and sidewalks on the Boulevards has been put on hold, because Charlotte County Utilities wants the MSBU to pay to replace the water lines on the Boulevards, or at least to replace those mains under the driveways where the culverts

would be discussing that issue further with CCU and the County. Mr. Peszko also indicated that the dead trees along the bike path will be replaced by Charlotte County.Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors apply a fine of $20.00 per day from today’s date, May 15, 2013, for 289 Annapolis Lane for a violation of the deed restrictions. Director Burger seconded the motion: and, it carried unanimously.The Board also discussed the possibility of, and the need for, imposing an Estoppel fee on property to be transferred within Rotonda West. There has been a significant increase in the amount of work for Estoppel requests which are for determining the amounts owed on properties to be transferred during the closing process. Manager Lyons said that he would like to charge an Estoppel fee of $50.00 for every certificate issued. He said that professional (commercial) property services in the area are generally charging $75.00 for the work and that he felt a $50.00 would be reasonable for the Association to charge and that the fee would be additional miscellaneous income to the RWA. The Board will take up the Estoppel fee proposal as a resolution at its June meeting.

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Minutes cont. from page 5are located. This was not raised in the original planning process when the bike paths and sidewalks could have been engineered on the opposite side of the roadways. The MSBU rejected the CCU request; and, the County Commissioners have agreed that the MSBU should not pay anything.Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors fine the owners of 19 Caddy Road (sheds), 193 Caddy Road (vehicle parking), 45 Rotonda Circle (vehicle parking), 52 Mariner Lane (trash) and 62 Mariner Lane (vehicle parking) at $20.00 per day starting June 12, 2013. Director Killion seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously.On behalf of the Policy & Procedures Committee, Director Perkins moved to add Darlene Mengel and Donna Gleason to the Policy & Procedures Committee. Director Killion seconded the motion; and, it carried unanimously.Director Killion moved that a stand-alone Committee be formed with the Board

Chairman joining the Properties Committee for full integration of discussion on how to proceed with any future plans for Broadmoor Park. Director Traverso seconded the motion. The Board then discussed the appropriateness of a stand-alone committee and its reporting responsibility particularly as an advisory group or perhaps as a subcommittee of the Properties Committee. The original motion was tabled and replaced with a new motion. Director Killion moved to have the Board of Directors form a subcommittee of the Properties Committee for Broadmoor Park with the chairman of that subcommittee becoming a member of the Properties Committee. Director VanScyoc seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously.Director Perkins moved that Dean Ziegler be appointed to the Properties Committee. Director Van Scyoc seconded the motion; and, it carried unanimously.

Broadmoor Park Planning UnderwayBy Don MahonWebster defines the word ‘use’ as “to put into action or service.” That was exactly the marching orders for the first meeting of the newly-appointed Broadmoor Park Advisory Group at its August 8th evening Workshop. The Rotonda West Association has taken legal possession of the property following the purchase of the 165 acre former golf course from Rotonda Partners, Inc. Its purchase was made possible by the donation of $50,000, the sale price, by John Farrell, a resident of the community. One of the wide-ranging action items discussed at the meeting is the development of a survey for residents. All 8,000 owners will have the opportunity to complete and submit their ideas for use of the property. Dean Ziegler, committee chairman, is a civil engineer who specializes in land development and park design. “Our committee has been presented with an exciting project with the land dominated by lakes and ponds,” he commented “The possibilities are endless.” Dean led the meeting of 26 committee members, most of who live in the Broadmoor subdivision within proximity of the Park. “I know the survey will generate an abundance of good ideas,” Dean said. “With the survey results and our own ideas, we’ll be well on our way to deciding on the ultimate uses of the property.” He indicated that the property will be divided into 9 zones and sub-committees will be named to examine and recommend uses for each zone. Aerial photographs have already been taken of each zone.Among action items that will be discussed at subsequent meetings are:

• design a usage survey and invite resident input• develop a Master Plan• develop a flexible time line• examine the possibility of a second entrance to the park• develop physical improvements to the property

Jay Lyons, RWA Manager, reported on his extensive preliminary work. When the sale was completed, he walked the property, examined the two utility buildings, located existing power and water, and received verification from the County that the property is legally designated for use as ‘park and recreation.’ The sale agreement by the former owner, Rotonda Golf Partners, specifies that the property cannot be used for any golf activity or for food service, such as a restaurant or catering service. Jay emphasized that “the purchase and maintenance, as well as added costs of insurance and taxes, will not require an increase in the annual assessment.” He said the Board has successfully uncovered several means of saving funding to offset the costs. Members of the committee besides Chairman Ziegler are Scott Schermerhorn, Chairman of the Properties Committee and Board Liaison; Bob Barrett, Bob Bennett, Sam Besase, Ron Boden, Gavin Cochran, Cynthia Wall Deegan, Joseph De Bonis, Dick Duggan, Tami Farrell, John Graig, Gary Grant, Ken Guillerm, Mary Anne Jones, Laura Jeivan, Dale

Jensen, Jim Laurent, Wayne Mengel, Steve Peluso, Stan Plizga, Dolly and Bill Raker, Malcolm Roberts, and Gordon and Diana Roman. All future meetings will be posted and residents are welcome to attend.

Dean Zuegler, right, makes a point at the Broadmoor Park meeting as Scott Schermerhorn looks on. Photo by Sue Killion.

Members of the Broadmoor Park Advisory Group are seated just before the start of the meeting. Photo by Sue Killion.

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Fishing in Rotonda West Canals and Ponds: Part IIBy Russ KulpThe fishing article in the previous issue of West Ways concluded with a brief explanation of what is required to be able to fish legally in the Association’s canals and ponds, as well as the Rotonda River which is the waterway between Boundary Boulevard and Rotonda Circle, end to end. Briefly recapping those requirements, everyone 16 and older must have a recreational freshwater license, whether a permanent resident or a temporary visitor, except for certain specified exempted groups. If you are 65 or older, you are exempt and do not need to have a license. However, you must carry proof of your age and residency. It is strongly recommended that seniors get a Resident Senior Citizen Hunting & Fishing Certificate. There is no cost for obtaining a Certificate; and, it can avoid any hassles. The Certificate can be obtained at the Charlotte County Tax Collector’s Office. In addition to being available at the Tax Collector’s Office or at one its designated agents, licenses can be obtained online at https://license.myfwc.com/Customer/CustomerLookup. Individuals who possess a Resident Freshwater Commercial Fishing License may also fish in Rotonda West’s waters, as long as they abide by specific regulations pertaining to things such as the means and kinds of equipment and gear used to take fish (and turtles). Finally, licenses are needed to attempt to catch fish and not only to actually catch them. Through the summer, it appears that more people are fishing this year than last along the canals and ponds, and also around the Oakland Hills Marina. The bass, catfish, tilapia and some other species seem to be active, so enjoyable recreational fishing is available right here in Rotonda West. The tilapia, for example, is an interesting fish. Internationally, it has emerged as a popular restaurant and home dinner table menu item thanks to aggressive, large-scale commercial farming operations, many in the Far East. Primarily a fresh water fish, the tilapia is also well supported in brackish water as found in Rotonda West. Adults normally grow to about 3 to 6 pounds and can be over 10” long. The variety generally found here in Central Florida is the blue tilapia. They love the warm climate and spawn whenever the water temperature exceeds 68 degrees Fahrenheit, which means these fish are breeding a majority of the year. Fertilized eggs hatch in the female’s mouth; and, while the babies are still tiny, the female releases them and then brings them back into her mouth whenever danger is detected. The habits of the blue tilapia effect the water environments in which they live. These fish primarily eat algae, floating and submerged plants, and often mosquito larvae. In this regard, they contribute to reducing harmful plant growth in canals, ponds and rivers and help clean the water. Usually, they are not in competition with other fish for their food. However, not all is positive and beneficial when it involves tilapia. They dig and borrow significantly into canal walls, thus hastening erosion. Because they are prolific breeders, they often also take over a waterway and are aggressive to other fish and sometimes even eat the eggs of other species.

So, if you catch tilapia, that is probably a good thing in helping control that population; and, they are good eating (assuming, of course, that the quality of the water in which they have been living is safe). Another species of fish is the focal point of local efforts to control hydrilla, a fast-growing aquatic weed that is now prevalent throughout Florida and has been spread into the Rotonda River. If not adequately and properly controlled, this invasive weed can threaten various uses of that waterway and the plants and fish and wildlife that are supported by it. The West Charlotte Stormwater Utility Advisory Committee has proposed that grass carp, a fish that loves to feed on hydrilla, be placed in the River. Two Rotonda West residents have been involved extensively in the development and consideration of this proposal. The Committee is chaired by Hank Killion; and Stan Plizga, is a Committee member. The effort is intended to use the carp to help reduce the amount of potentially harmful chemicals which would otherwise be needed to try to control this invasive weed, as well as manually cutting and removing it. Placing a sterile species of that fish in the water also will help to control the future carp population. The project, however, has run into some obstacles. The budget, funding, permits, and relocation or replacement of sewer pipes that currently run under the Rotonda River are among the challenges that portend a long process if it is to be completed. In order to successfully establish the carp in the river, barriers will need to be constructed and placed around culverts; and this will likely erode existing old sewer pipes. These barriers will be required to contain the carp in the appropriate areas. This has meant incurring the additional costs of engineering drawings as well as those expenses involved with permit applications and amendments. A number of agencies are involved in this process; and, although funding was originally going to be done through the Rotonda West Association, necessary funds will now be sought through the Municipal Services Benefit Units. The West Charlotte Stormwater Utility Advisory Committee hopes that the project can be prioritized by Charlotte County for erosion control involving the sewer lines. There will likely be continuing discussion about whether this is a cost-effective alternative to the traditional method of cutting and removing the weed from the water; and, whether it will achieve significant savings. In support of the effort, however, is the fact that Lee and Charlotte Counties have had successful and extensive grass carp programs. More on this topic will undoubtedly appear in future issues of West Ways.

Fishing for the “big one”. Photo by Dave Pulaski

-8-BULK MAILINGU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPLACIDA, FL

33947PERMIT NO. 38

Rotonda West Association, Inc.3754 Cape Haze DriveRotonda West, FL 33947

ECRWSSPOSTAL CUSTOMER

ROTONDA WEST FL 33947

• Board of Directors2nd Wednesday @ 2 p.m.

• Aquatics Committee4th Wednesday @ 2 p.m.

• Beautification1st Thursday @ 2 p.m.

• Budget & Finance2nd Tuesday @ 2 p.m.

• Community Relations1st Wednesday @ 2:00 p.m.

• Deed Restrictions1st Monday @ 2 p.m.

• Election3rd Thursday @ 2 p.m.

• Properties4th Monday @ 10 a.m.

• Residential Modification2nd & 4th Monday @ 2 p.m.

IMPORTANT DATES

Mission StatementThe role of Rotonda West Association, Inc. is multi-faceted: To protect the property interests of the members; to enhance living in the community; to plan for the future in its role as a community association. (Approved November 13, 2002)

Rotonda West Association3754 Cape Haze DriveRotonda West, FL 33947Phone 941-697-6788Fax 941-697-0788Deed Restrictions 941-697-1780Email info@rotondawest.orgEditor westways@rotondawest.orgWeb www.rotondawest.org

All committee meetings are open to RWA members and meet monthly on the days listed at the RWA Community Center.

Rotonda West Association, Inc.Board of DirectorsGlynn Perkins, PresidentGeorge Burger, 1st Vice PresidentHank Killion, 2nd Vice President, TreasurerScott Schermerhorn, SecretaryDavid Kelly, DirectorAndy Van Scyoc, DirectorPeter Traverso, DirectorOffice StaffJay Lyons, ManagerNorene Kugler, Assistant ManagerDianne Brophy, Deed RestrictionsMerle Fulton, AccountingClaudette Romano, AdministratorWest Ways StaffChristine Lee, EditorRuss Kulp, Writer Don Mahon, Writer Sue Killion, Photographer David Pulaski, Photographer Julie Gaustad-Ruhr, Layout

Our Florida rainy season brings much needed rain to our communities and our local wildlife. The heavy rain causes the Rotonda River to swell and overflow the weir into the Coral Creek Preserve. This overflowing of the water brings the Alligator gar fish to the top of the weir and other wildlife to the water’s edge”                   Photos by Sue Killion