May 2026

May 2026
Waterford at Smith Lake
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes
Held on – June 2, 2026 – will schedule another June update at end of month

Meeting Called to Order:
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M. by Don Monistere, President, and seconded by James Eidson.

Board Members Present
Don Monistere, President
James Eidson
Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
Travis Tidwell, Secretary
Judy Wise
Jim Turner
Brad Parnell

Board Members Absent
None

Old Business

Construction Progress and Delays
The Board discussed ongoing construction progress at the facility, including recent delays due to weather and the status of work completed to date.

  • Rain-Related Delays
    Caleb reported that recent storms resulted in approximately a week and a half of lost work time, as crews cannot safely work when water is running down the building. James Eidson confirmed that rain on Monday further impacted scheduled work.
  • Completed and Upcoming Work
    Caleb advised that handrail installations have been completed and that most “easy access” items are finished. Scaffolding setup is beginning, with continued work on the parking lot-facing walls and stairwells on both buildings.
  • Contractor Coordination
    Caleb has contacted Excel Contracting regarding grinding and filling holes in the tops of certain walls but has not yet received a response. He is also awaiting scheduling details for gutter installation from the contractor.
  • Access and Homeowner Communication
    Brad asked about access to backside patios during construction. Caleb clarified that all work is being performed from the exterior and will not require entry through units. Don agreed to send an email to homeowners instructing them to remove any items mounted on exterior walls to facilitate ongoing work.

Water Damage and Structural Repairs
The Board discussed existing water damage on the parking lot side, the long-term effects of prior salt use on structural steel, and options for replacement and remediation.

  • Salt-Induced Rust Damage
    Don noted that historical use of salt for ice control accelerated rust and deterioration of steel components. The structural engineer has recommended replacement with wood in affected areas, and Caleb confirmed that salt is no longer used at the property.
  • Replacement Options and Pricing
    Don requested that pricing be obtained for both wood and steel replacement options. Caleb reported that the wood option has been designed and that the structural engineer is redesigning the steel solution. Once designs are complete, pricing will be requested from multiple vendors.
  • Moisture Prevention Measures
    Brad inquired about methods to prevent future moisture intrusion. Caleb described plans to use urethane caulk (to be coordinated with Travis) for sealing, with particular attention to proper application to avoid water pooling.
  • Annual Maintenance Planning
    Caleb and James emphasized that, due to a lack of flashing in the original construction, yearly caulking and painting of breezeways will be required as a critical ongoing maintenance item.
  • Assessment and Structural Engineer Input
    Caleb stated that final decisions on structural repairs will be based on the structural engineer’s written assessment, which will be incorporated into the overall project plan.

Reserve Study Review and Communication
The Board reviewed the status of the newly received reserve study, its major findings, and plans for distribution.

  • Reserve Study Distribution
    Caleb confirmed that the updated reserve study has been provided to Don. Don will distribute the study to the full Board for review before it is published on the association’s website and will summarize key points in a follow-up email to owners.
  • Roof Lifespan and Cosmetic Options
    Jim and Don discussed roof lifespan projections. Caleb confirmed that the metal roof is expected to last until approximately 2042 and the flat roofs until approximately 2048. Cosmetic options such as painting were discussed but generally considered temporary in nature.

New Business

Homeowner Guidelines and Wall Mounting Policy
The Board discussed guidelines regarding mounting items on exterior walls in light of the bylaws and upcoming construction work.

  • Notification to Homeowners
    Don agreed to send an email instructing homeowners to remove any items mounted on exterior walls (e.g., TVs, signage, or other fixtures) prior to the start of construction work on patios and breezeways.
  • Mounting Methods and Restrictions
    Caleb clarified that there is no practical way to mount items on the AFIS without puncturing the surface, which is inconsistent with governing documents. Brad noted that even adhesive products (such as command strips) can damage the finish. The Board reaffirmed that exterior wall penetrations are not permitted.

Financials and Assessment Fee Collection
The Board reviewed the status of special assessment fee collections and monthly financial reporting.

Cleanup During Construction
The Board discussed cleanliness of common areas during construction and whether additional cleanup services are necessary.

  • Cleanup Request and Cost Consideration
    Judy requested weekly cleanings of stairwells and walkways during the construction period. Don noted that regular additional cleanings would result in extra costs to the association and suggested that cleanups be priced on an as-needed basis rather than scheduled weekly.
  • Current Site Cleanliness
    Brad and Caleb stated that, for an active construction site, the property is relatively clean. They noted that some workers and residents are already cleaning breezeways and sidewalks informally.
  • Action on Cleanup Pricing
    Caleb agreed to obtain pricing for occasional, as-needed cleanups. Don will present any proposals to the Board for consideration and approval if warranted.

Proposal for July Owner Meeting
The Board considered options for owner communication in July related to construction progress and assessments.

  • Owner Gathering Proposal
    Judy proposed a Fourth of July owner gathering (such as a cookout or morning meeting) to give owners a chance to ask questions and voice concerns, recognizing that building work will not be complete by that date.

Follow-Up Tasks

  • Meeting Invitation:
    Don will send a calendar invite for the July 2, 2026 Board meeting to all Board members, including Judy as requested.
  • Project Timeline Update:
    Caleb will request an updated project timeline from the gutter contractor and report back to the Board.
  • Homeowner Notification:
    Don will send an email to all homeowners instructing them to remove any items mounted on exterior walls prior to construction work on patios and breezeways.
  • Water Damage Assessment:
    Caleb will obtain and share an updated report from the structural engineer regarding water damage on the parking lot side where the I‑beams are located.
  • Material Pricing:
    Don will obtain and share pricing for both wood and steel replacement options for affected structural areas once design work is complete.
  • Caulking Solution:
    Caleb and Travis will coordinate to ensure appropriate urethane caulk is selected and properly applied to seal sidewalk tops and prevent moisture intrusion.
  • Reserve Study Distribution:
    Don will distribute the reserve study to the entire Board for review prior to publication and allow time for Board feedback.
  • Reserve Study Website Posting:
    Following Board review, Don will ensure the reserve study PDF is posted on the association website and will summarize key highlights in an email to all owners.
  • Financials Update:
    Caleb will complete and distribute the May financials to the Board upon closing the books, with a target completion date of the 10th of the month.

Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 7:05 P.M.

Motion: Don Monistere
Second: James Eidson
Result: Approved by the Board

February 2026

Waterford at Smith Lake

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

February 24, 2026

Meeting Called to Order:
The meeting was called to order at 6:01 P.M. by Don Monistere, President, and seconded by James Eidson.


Board Members Present

  • Don Monistere, President
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell, Secretary
  • Judy Wise
  • Jim Turner
  • Brad Parnell

Board Members Absent

  • None

Old Business

Reserve Study Update

Don suggested updating the Reserve Study, as most items identified in the current study have been completed. Don will contact the firm that conducted the previous study to obtain a cost estimate for updating the report and will report back to the Board.

Dock #1 Electrical Issue

Dock #1 continues to experience electrical problems. An electrician is currently evaluating the issue to determine the cause and necessary repairs.

Property Updates (Caleb Bright)

  • Crepe myrtles have been trimmed.
  • Elevator sensors have been repaired.
  • Railing installations are scheduled to begin mid-March.
  • EIFS work is scheduled to begin mid-March.

Building 200 – Water Intrusion Update

Caleb reported that the remediation company is currently on hold, as attorneys are involved and work cannot proceed until a responsible party signs to authorize payment.

The Board discussed how to proceed given potential health concerns. Don will contact the affected unit owners before the HOA makes any decision regarding moving forward to address potential health risks.


New Business

Owner Voting Concerns

The Board discussed an owner’s concerns regarding voting procedures for upcoming improvement projects and considered how best to proceed.

Delinquent Owner Payments

The Board discussed how to address owners who are delinquent on payments related to upcoming building and shoreline projects.

Building 204 Walkway

Wood posts at the Building 204 walkway require screws to be removed. The matter will be addressed.


Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 6:59 P.M.

  • Motion: Don Monistere
  • Second: James Eidson
  • Result: Approved by the Board

April 2026

Waterford at Smith Lake
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes
April 16, 2026


Meeting Called to Order

The meeting was called to order at 6:07 P.M. by President Don Monistere, with a second by Brad Parnell.


Board Members Present

  • Don Monistere, President
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell
  • Brad Parnell
  • Jim Turner

Board Members Absent

  • Judy Wise

Old Business

Property Updates (Caleb Bright)

  • A new elevator certificate has been obtained.
  • EIFS cleaning did not begin as scheduled. The work will be rescheduled, and color samples will be applied next week for Board review.
  • Handrail fabrication has been completed and is scheduled for powder coating next week.
  • A proposal of $3,850 was received for painting the exterior doors, which includes cleaning and applying two brushed coats of paint.
  • Mold remediation in Unit 203 has been completed; the Board is awaiting homeowner approval.

Litigation Update

  • No new updates were reported regarding ongoing litigation with the neighboring property.

New Business

Boat Slip Ports Inquiry

  • Caleb Bright will contact Askvig to determine interest in selling his boat ports to the HOA.

Dock #3 Handrail Damage

  • Significant damage to the Dock #3 handrail was reported.
  • The damaged section will be removed.

Grill Replacement

  • The Board discussed purchasing two gas grills and one charcoal grill for the property.

Motion:
Don Monistere made a motion to proceed with the purchase of new grills.

  • Second: Brad Parnell
  • Result: Motion approved

Reserve Study

  • An updated Reserve Study is currently in progress.

Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 6:43 P.M.

Motion: Don Monistere
Second: Caleb Bright
Result: Approved

January 2026

Waterford at Smith Lake

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes
January 26, 2026

Meeting Called to Order:
The meeting was called to order at 5:44 P.M. by Don Monistere, President, and seconded by James Eidson.


Board Members Present

  • Don Monistere, President
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell, Secretary
  • Judy Wise
  • Jim Turner

Board Members Absent

  • Brad Parnell

Homeowners Present

  • None

Old Business

Owner Voting Update:

  • As of January 26, 2026, 42 of 48 homeowners have voted.
  • Don Monistere is verifying that all homeowners have received the voting email.
  • All owners who have voted indicated they will pay by lump sum.
  • Eight (8) votes were cast for options other than Option One.

Project Updates (Caleb Bright):

  • Met with Alabama Ornamental; work is anticipated to begin by the end of February.
  • The EIFS contractor will provide color samples for Board approval.
  • Two gutter contractors have been contacted for the work needed to be done.
  • The Rip Rap shoreline project permitting will not proceed until next year due to the sensitive shoreline area. Permits are valid for one year once issued.
  • Lump-sum payments will be billed in mid-February.
  • Quarterly payment plans will begin with the next billing cycle and will be due upon receipt.

New Business

Unit 103, Building 200 – Water Intrusion / Mold Issue:

  • The issue at Unit 103 has not yet been resolved.
  • Dehumidifiers have been running since December 16, 2025.
  • James Eidson recommended the Board proceed with water and mold remediation.
  • An initial remediation quote of $13,000 was discussed.
  • Homeowners in affected units will be notified prior to remediation work beginning.

Motion:
Don Monistere made a motion to authorize Caleb Bright to secure a contractor and proceed with mold remediation.

  • Second: James Eidson
  • Vote: Board approved unanimously.

Homeowner Responsibility Reminder:

  • Don Monistere will send an email reminder to homeowners stating they are responsible for their individual water lines and water heater replacements.

Adjournment

Motion:
The meeting was adjourned at 6:17 P.M.

  • Made by: Don Monistere
  • Seconded by: James Eidson
  • Vote: Approved unanimously

Annual Homeowner’s Meeting December 7th 2025

Minutes – 2025

Date: December 7, 2025
Time: 3:01 p.m.
Location: Trident Marina

Meeting Called to Order

Called to order by Don Monistere, President, seconded by James Eidson.


Board Members Present

  • Don Monistere, President
  • James Eidson
  • Jim Turner
  • Judy Wise
  • Travis Tidwell
  • Brad Parnell

Board Members/Property manager Absent

  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management, Property Manager)

Homeowners Present

  • 26 homeowners present
  • 9 homeowners represented by proxy

Approval of Previous Minutes

  • Motion: Don Monistere made a motion to approve the 2024 Annual Meeting minutes.
  • Second: James Eidson
  • Result: Motion approved by homeowners.

President’s Report – Completed & Upcoming Projects

Don reviewed completed 2025 projects and upcoming work, including:

  • Property repairs and maintenance
  • Ongoing and future infrastructure needs

Budget Notes

Despite certain line‑item shortfalls, leftover funds in other categories were used to offset deficits. Remaining shortages were covered by reserves.

  • Reserves after adjustments: $214,211
  • Added to reserves in 2025: $4,211
  • No special assessments were required.

Reserve Study Update

Don reviewed completed items and those remaining from the Reserve Study. Significant progress has been made over the past five years. Major remaining items include:

  • Exterior Veneer (most critical)
  • Other items not due until the 2030s

The Board will decide in 2026 whether the Reserve Study should be updated.


Primary Concerns Identified

  1. EIFS (Exterior Veneer) Maintenance
  2. Gutter System Issues
  3. Remaining Unreplaced Railings
  4. Shoreline Erosion & Rip Rap Repairs

Items 1–3 must be performed at the same time.


Funding Options Discussion

Don presented two potential funding methods:

Option 1 — HOA Loan

  • People’s Bank is willing to offer financing.
  • Would likely require a down payment.
  • Allows all major projects to begin at once.

Option 2 — Owner Contributions

A schedule was distributed outlining individual owner costs for:

  1. EIFS, Gutters, Railings
  2. Shoreline Repairs
  3. All Items Combined

Owners may choose:

  • Monthly increase in dues (loan)
  • Lump-sum payment
  • Self-financing

A significant number of lump-sum payments could reduce or eliminate the need for a large HOA loan.


Questions from Owners

Rick Johanson: Has Waterford ever taken a loan of this type?
Answer: No.

Rick Johanson: How might this affect resale value?
Answer: The Board will consult a real estate professional.


Motion Regarding Dues & Financing

  • Motion: Approve quarterly dues of $1,750 and allow the Board to gather more specific loan information.
  • Detailed bid summaries will be distributed to all owners in early January. Afterward, owners will vote on their preferred funding options. Cost breakdowns will be recalculated based on final bids.
  • Made By: Rick Johanson
  • Second: Brad Parnell
  • Result: Passed by homeowners.

Litigation Update

Don provided a general update on the ongoing legal dispute with the neighboring property.

  • Estimated chances: Don projected 40/60, while legal counsel is more optimistic (exact ratio not specified).
  • All discovery and depositions have been completed; no major additional legal fees anticipated.
  • A Cullman County judge will make the final ruling. No trial date has been set.
  • Case details remain privileged.

Board Elections

  • Motion: Retain the current Board members for the 2026 term.
  • Made By: Keith Wise
  • Second: Jimmy Magette
  • Result: Approved unanimously.

Additional Homeowner Requests

  • Mrs. Schneider requested that the Board address the narrow section of County Road 96 and consider installing a convex mirror to improve visibility and safety for oncoming traffic.
  • Teresa Johanson requested that the Board provide the owner list and contact information, as approved at the previous annual meeting.

Adjournment

  • Motion to Adjourn: Made by Brad Parnell at 4:21 p.m.
  • Second: Keith Wise
  • Result: Motion approved unanimously.

Meeting adjourned at 4:21 p.m.

November 2025

November 20, 2025 Board Meeting Minutes

Waterford at Smith Lake

Minutes for November 20, 2025

Meeting called to order at 6:15 P.M. by President Don Monistere (President), seconded by James Eidson.

Members Present:

  • Don Monistere
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell, Secretary
  • Brad Parnell
  • Judy Wise
  • Jim Turner

Members Absent:

  • None

Homeowners Present:

  • None

Old Business

  • Caleb provided an update: Alabama Ornamental completed painting of all rails requiring attention.
  • Don discussed the key talking points he will present at the upcoming annual meeting.
  • James secured the Trident Marina sales floor for the annual meeting. Food will be delivered at 4:30 PM.
  • The Board will participate in a Zoom call with Matt Carter, HOA attorney, on Friday the 5th to discuss the ongoing litigation with the neighboring property owner.
  • Brad suggested Don provide a brief summary of the litigation for new owners during the annual meeting.

New Business

(No new items were discussed.)


Meeting adjourned at 7:11 P.M. by Don Monistere, seconded by James Eidson.

August 2025

Waterford at Smith Lake
Minutes for August 28, 2025

Meeting called to order at 6:05 P.M. by President Don Monistere, seconded by James Eidson.

Members Present:

  • Don Monistere
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell
  • Jim Turner
  • Judy Wise

Members Absent:

  • Brad Parnell

Homeowners Present:
None


Old Business

  • Landscaping Update: Caleb reported that most landscaping improvements have been completed.
  • Elevators: Engineers are working to resolve erratic elevator operation caused by power surges.
  • Railing Repairs: Caleb is obtaining a quote from a railing company to address ongoing railing issues.
  • Parking Lot: Previous vendor has not returned calls; Caleb is seeking quotes from an additional company.
  • Propane Tank: An automatic tank reader has been installed to ensure the propane tank remains full.
  • EIFS Quote: Caleb is requesting pricing from an EIFS installer for both buildings.
  • Ongoing Litigation: Don Monistere will be deposed on September 23 regarding Waterford’s ongoing lawsuit with neighbor Mitch Gorman.

New Business

No new business was introduced.


Next Board Meeting: TBA

Meeting adjourned at 6:43 P.M. by Don Monistere, seconded by James Eidson. Motion carried.

October 2025

Waterford at Smith Lake
Minutes for October 21, 2025

Meeting called to order at 6:04 P.M. by President Don Monistere, seconded by James Eidson.


Members Present

  • Don Monistere
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell
  • Judy Wise
  • Brad Parnell
  • Jim Turner

Members Absent

None

Homeowners Present

None


Old Business

  • Property Update: Caleb Bright reported that the elevator lockout issue has been resolved. Inspections have been completed, and all cited infractions have been corrected. During the last rainstorm, the elevator in Building 200 experienced issues due to a sump pump malfunction, which has since been repaired.
  • Parking Lot: The parking lot project has been completed.
  • Building and Railing Repairs: All quotes for building and railing repairs have been obtained.
  • Landscaping: Brad Parnell asked about the procedure for replacing dead bushes. The Board agreed to give Caleb the authority to replace bushes as needed.

New Business

  • Repair Quotes:
    • Handrails and pool fence: $27,720
    • Retaining wall railing beside Building 204: $13,320
    • Reskinning both buildings: $294,000
    • Riprap shoreline (837’ x 15’ x 12”): $106,000
  • Unit Request: The owner of Unit 405 (Building 200) requested to change soffit material from vinyl to tongue and groove.
    • Motion to decline by James Eidson, seconded by Jim Turner. Motion carried.
    • Request denied to maintain consistent aesthetics.
  • Litigation Update: Don Monistere provided an update on his deposition regarding Waterford’s ongoing litigation with the neighboring property owner. Details were discussed but not recorded in the minutes as they are considered privileged information.
  • Annual HOA Meeting: Tentatively scheduled for December 7, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 P.M. Caleb will provide Don with the necessary information for the presentation materials.
  • Board Member Manual: Brad Parnell suggested creating a simple reference manual containing procedures, contact numbers, and essential information for current and future board members. The Board agreed this would be a valuable resource and will work to develop one.

Next Meeting

The next Board meeting is scheduled for November 20, 2025.


Meeting adjourned at 7:17 P.M. by Don Monistere, seconded by James Eidson. Motion carried.


July -2025

July 16, 2025

Meeting Called to Order: 6:01 P.M. by President Don Monistere, seconded by James Eidson.

Members Present:

  • Don Monistere (President)
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell
  • Brad Parnell
  • Jim Turner
  • Judy Wise

Members Absent: None

Homeowners Present: None

Old Business

Caleb Bright (Bright Management) provided the following updates:

  • Elevator Issue: Power surges affecting the elevator will hopefully be mitigated with the installation of relays.
  • Landscaping: Project underway to replace and remove bushes.
  • Stairs: Painting of stairs between buildings has begun.
  • Roofing: Roofer addressed overflow issues at the TV rooms, identified and caulked leaks during the visit. TV room doors are deteriorating; Caleb will obtain an estimate for their replacement.
  • Parking Lot: Caleb is securing an additional quote for sealing and stripping the parking lot to ensure completion.
  • Railings: Quote received for replacing failing railings at Building 204.
  • Roof Leak: Building 200 roof leak addressed with caulking, with hopes of resolution.

New Business

  • Propane Tank Monitor: Proposal to add a monitor to the propane tank for approximately $9/month. Motion by Brad Parnell, seconded by Don Monistere, unanimously approved by the board.
  • Bush Removal: Homeowner requested removal of a bush for improved car access. Motion by Brad Parnell, seconded by Don Monistere, unanimously approved by the board.
  • Litigation Update: Don Monistere reported that the court date has been delayed. Don’s deposition is pending, and the surveyor’s deposition is still awaited.
  • Funding Discussion: James Eidson met with Peoples Bank to discuss financing for major projects, such as painting and sealing the building. The bank provided positive feedback on lending the necessary funds.
  • Building Reskinning: Caleb will obtain an estimate for reskinning the building to present at the annual meeting.

Next Board Meeting: August 26, 2025

Meeting Adjourned: 6:53 P.M. by Don Monistere, seconded by Brad Parnell, unanimously approved by the board.

June 2025

Waterford at Smith Lake

Minutes for June 5, 2025

Meeting called to order at 6:01 P.M. by President Don Monistere, seconded by James Eidson.

Members Present:

  • Don Monistere
  • James Eidson
  • Caleb Bright (Bright Management)
  • Travis Tidwell
  • Judy Wise
  • Brad Parnell
  • Jim Turner

Members Absent:

  • None

Homeowners Present:

  • None

Old Business:

  • Caleb provided a general property update:
    • Parking lot sealing and striping are pending dry weather.
    • All ticket items have been updated.
    • Roof leak in Building 200 is awaiting contractor inspection.
    • Building 204 has a minor roof leak in the TV room.
    • Concrete sidewalk between buildings is scheduled for next week, weather permitting.
    • Railing at Building 204 needs addressing.
    • Don created a page on the Waterford website for viewing all open tickets.
  • Drain at Building 204:
    • Pricing: $1,500 if completed during the sidewalk project.
    • Motion to proceed made by Don, seconded by James, unanimously approved.
  • Landscaping Updates:
    • Proposed areas: below pool wall, east end of Building 204, pool area, and back of building.
    • Improvements include removing dead plants and avoiding bee-attracting varieties.
    • All plants behind the building will be removed except for crepe myrtles.
    • Motion to approve landscaping improvements made by Don, seconded by Judy, unanimously approved.
    • Caleb will aim to implement changes by the Fourth of July.
  • Financing Major Projects:
    • James offered to speak with the bank about securing a loan for large-scale improvements.
  • Building 204 Gutter Overflow:
    • Issue noted; pending resolution.
  • Legal Update:
    • Ongoing issues with neighboring property discussed.
    • Don will arrange a conference call with legal counsel to explore options.
  • Maintenance Follow-up:
    • Brad reported ongoing issues:
      • Mold and mildew remain on stair handrails of Building 204.
      • Stairs between buildings are pending painting; delayed due to weather.
      • Lower walkway at Building 204 was pressure washed but dirtied again by rain.
      • Mold and mildew will be addressed as part of ongoing maintenance.

New Business:

  • No new business was presented.

Meeting adjourned at 7:03 P.M. by Don Monistere, seconded by Brad Parnell, board in favor.