New Business
E-mail Address: 1regencytower@gmail.com
May 2016
New Business - 5/9/2016 Meeting
May 9, 2016 - President Eileen R. Bendis called for the adoption of New Rules & Regulations. The Condominium Act gives the Board of Directors the authority to adopt reasonable rules and regulations concerning the use of the common elements, common areas, and recreational facilities.
Therefore, a motion to adopt each of the following was made and passed:
1. Emotional Support Animals (ESA)
As many of you are aware, we have been sued concerning an “emotional support animal”, ESA. All communities must comply with the Fair Housing Act. In settling the suit, and saving the association money by keeping attorney fees to a minimum, we have been required to let all residents know that even though we are a no pet building, animals that are prescribed as necessary by a doctor must be allowed. They must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and may use the common elements without restrictions. We cannot force pet owners to use the service elevator or side doors even though we would prefer they do so.
2. No Smoking at Pool
The pool area is for the enjoyment of all residents and their guests. Therefore, no smoking will be allowed in the immediate pool area. Smoking is permitted on the upper deck of the pool area and in the area around the grill.
3. SECURITY
A new policy requiring all guests show a picture ID to the security guard at the front desk will be implemented by the middle of June 2016.
4. CABANAS
- Severe weather requires our maintenance staff to remove cabanas from the beach. On occasion all maintenance staff had to be called upon to assist. The last increase to the rental of “sand space” was at least five (5) years ago. Effective January 1, 2017 the annual rental rate will increase by $100
Fern McBride, Secretary
New Business - 8/26/2013 Meeting
August 26, 2013 - President Eileen R. Bendis called for New Business.
1. Bank Line of Credit
Richard Robins moved to renew the line of credit for $600,000.00 at 1st United Bank. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
2. Ratify Manager's contract
Eileen Bendis moved that the property manager, Dwight Lyon's contract be renewed for two more years. Motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
3. Attorney's proceedings with Unit #1508 problem
Steve Faigin moved to instruct our attorneys to continue legal procedures necessary to get foreclosure completed. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
4. Roof Repairs
- Eric Berkowitz reported on the roof problems and repairs needed. Click Here to read report.
Joan Sapik, Secretary
New Business - 12/12/2012 Meeting
December 12, 2012 - President Eileen R. Bendis called for New Business.
2013 BUDGET AND RESERVES
A motion was made by Abe Ben-Aviv to approve budget as submitted; it was seconded and passed unanimously.
COMCAST CONTRACT
A motion was made by Eric Berkowitz to approve the new Comcast Contract as approved by counsel; it was seconded and passed unanimously.
COMPETITIVE BIDS PROCEDURE
A motion was made by Cathie Lenz to approve the new procedure on competitive bids and it was seconded and passed unanimously.
RENDEZVOUS ROOM HOURS
A motion was made Iris Anastasi to close the social room one hour earlier 11:00 PM vs. midnight; it was seconded and passed unanimously.
Margaret Thompson, Secretary
New Business - 3/20/2012 Meeting
March 20, 2012 - President Eileen R. Bendis called for New Business.
RATIFY EXHAUST FAN LOCATION
We have decided to keep the garage exhaust fan in the same location after examining various locations, such as elevating it, and putting the job out for bids per the specs of our engineer and our attorney approving the contract.
A motion was made by Iris Anastasi to put the garage exhaust fan in the same location and putting the job out for bids per the specs from the engineer and our attorney approving the contract. The motion was seconded by Fern McBride and unanimously approved.
APPROVE SCOPE OF WORK FROM ENGINEER JOHN EVANS FOR BALCONY DOORS
We have received the scope of work and the specs for the impact glass balcony doors.
Impact Door Cathie Lenz made a motion to accept the scope of work and specs from the engineer for the impact glass balcony doors. The motion was seconded by Eric Berkowitz and unanimously approved.
RESERVE ACCOUNT DETAIL
Our Treasurer has requested that we establish a new reserve account called “Capital Expenditures and Deferred Maintenance,” which would be used for any expenditure funds for:
- (a) the purchase of an asset whose useful life is greater than one year in length;
- (b) the replacement of an asset whose useful life is greater than one year in length;
- (c) the addition to an asset that extends the useful life of the previously existing asset for a period of greater than one year in length;
and, as to “Deferred Maintenance” it would be used for any maintenance or repair that - (a) will be performed less frequently than yearly;
- (b) will result in maintaining the useful life of an asset
- (per Condominium Rule 61B-22.001(2)&(3).)
A motion was made by Fern McBride to accept this new reserve account detail. The motion was seconded by Margaret Thompson and unanimously approved.
Fern McBride, Secretary
New Business - 1/31/2012 Meeting
January 31, 2012 - President Eileen R. Bendis called for New Business.
The results of the impact glass balcony door referendum:Proxies received 149
Proxies “FOR” 124
Proxies “AGAINST” 25
Fern McBride, Secretary
New Business - 10/13/2011 Meeting
October 13, 2011 - President Eileen R. Bendis called for New Business.
CRITERIA FOR LEASING AND PURCHASING OF UNITS
With the economic conditions as they are, we have decided that a new criteria was necessary to adopt for buying and leasing units in the Regency Tower. According to our condominium documents, section XXVI, page 25, economic criteria may be used to insure the availability of sufficient funds for the operation and management of the Condominium, and shall be a factor in whether an applicant qualifies for ownership. In order for us to maintain the caliber of residents that we have, and with the approval of our attorney, we have drafted criteria that must be met based on economic criteria and background checks. According to Florida Statutes 718.116 (11) the association now has the authority to demand rent from tenants whose unit owner is delinquent with any monetary obligations. With this in mind we must be sure the tenant can meet their rental obligations.
A motion was made by Margaret Thompson and seconded by Cathie Lenz that we adopt the economic criteria and background checks drafted by our attorney, for buying and leasing units in the Regency Tower. The motion was unanimously approved and adopted.
NEW LANDSCAPING FOR BEACH AREA
Scaevola taccada at Regency
Tower Beach Egress
The landscaping in the front and sides of our building looks wonderful. I want to thank Mark and his team for a great job. However, I feel the beachside has a lot to be desired. With the help of Dwight, we have been investigating what kind of options are available. As you know there are many “bald” spots along the hedge on the seawall. Numerous times, to no avail, planting the same shrub failed. What we have is called “Scaevola taccada” a wild shrub. The city is even removing this all along the beach.
Scaevola taccada AKA Beach Naupaka
Balding Spot at North Sea Wall
To remove what we have requires a permit, which we obtained. It is good until next year and the shrubs cannot be removed until the end of Turtle Nesting season - the end of October. Beach Raker would be required to do the tearing out and the new planting. The total cost under the proposal is $4468. 
Upon approval of the Treasurer, may I have a motion to go ahead with removing and replacing the shrubs in front of the seawall, making this contingent on further clarification from Beach Raker in regards to moving sand. 
Bernard Larkin made a motion that upon approval of the Treasurer we go ahead and remove and replace the shrubs in front of the seawall, contingent on further clarification from Beach Raker in regards to sand movement. The following board members voted “aye”: Iris Anastasi, Eileen Bendis, Eric Berkowitz, Bernard Larkin, Fern McBride and Margaret Thompson. Catherine Lenz voted “nay.”
RESEARCHING IMPACT GLASS PATIO DOORS
We did get a majority vote on the survey for the doors – 103-24. I would now like to investigate further what is entailed to amend our documents to require, as you need to replace balcony doors, they would have to be the impact glass. This has to be done with a majority vote of the unit owners since this is a material alteration. It is imperative that those of you who showed an interest in the survey must now vote yes on the proxy vote, and send it back without me begging, pleading and calling you to do so. I will try to get a committee together to help gather information and bids from different companies.Impact Door 
May I have a motion to go ahead and talk to our attorney and see what we need to do to amend our documents to reflect the impact glass balcony doors upon replacement of present doors and send proxies out? Also, to establish an investigative committee to look into companies. A motion was made by Eric Berkowitz to allow the President to talk to the attorney for information on amending our documents to reflect that new balcony doors will have to be glass impact doors, send proxies and establish an investigative committee. The motion was seconded by Bernard Larkin and unanimously approved and adopted.
Fern McBride, Secretary
New Business - 3/23/2011 Meeting
March 23, 2011 - President Eileen R. Bendis called for New Business.
Planned Schedule of Meetings – Announced after “Approval of Minutes”
Request for Committee Volunteers – The President stated that we have quite a few committees that have to be re-done. Have not seen present committee chairpersons; will place sign-up sheets at security desk for people to indicate their interest in serving on a committee.
Manager Contract – Dee Lanzillo made a motion that the Manager’s Contract dated April 2, 2009 by and between Dott Nicholson-Brown and The Regency Tower Association, be extended under the same terms and conditions as stated therein. Bill Tennenbaum seconded the motion. After discussion, a vote was taken with the following results: Eric Berkowitz, Dee Lanzillo, Fern McBride and Bill Tennenbaum voted “yea” and Iris Anastasi, Eileen R. Bendis and Catherine Lenz voted “nay.” The motion passed with 4 “yeas” and 3 “nays.”
Fern McBride, Secretary
Election of Officers
March 17, 2011 - The Officers are:
President Eileen Bendis
- Vice President Eric P. Berkowitz
- Secretary Fern McBride
- Treasurer Bill Tennenbaum
Signatories on our bank accounts will be updated.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Election of Officers
March 15, 2010 - A special meeting of The Regency Tower Board was called to order at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 15, 2010 in the Rendezvous Room of The Regency Tower by the President. It was stated that the purpose of this special meeting is for the election of officers following the March 11, 2010 Board of Director elections.
Fern McBride made a motion that the Board of Directors retain the same officers as last year. The motion was seconded by Dott Nicholson-Brown and unanimously approved.
The Officers are:
President Dee Lanzillo
- Vice President Eric P. Berkowitz
- Secretary Fern McBride
- Treasurer Bill Tennenbaum
Fern McBride, Secretary
Security Upgrade
March 11, 2010 - A motion was made by Bill Tennenbaum that the Board ratify the prior decision to continue the security upgrade by using Big Red Communications
The motion was seconded by Fern McBride. The motion passed with six yeas and one nay. Iris Anastasi opposed the motion.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Election of Officers
March 12, 2009 - A motion was made by Fern McBride that the Board of Directors retain the same officers as last year. The motion was seconded by Bill Tennenbaum. The motion passed with six yeas and one nay.
The Officers are:
President Dott Nicholson-Brown
- Vice President Iris Anastasi
- Secretary Fern McBride
- Treasurer Bob Nagle and
- Assistant Treasurer Bill Tennenbaum
Fern McBride, Secretary
Possibility of Hiring a Manager
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| We Are Family! |
We have to do something to make sure our building continues to operate in the professional manner that we are all used to. We’ve decided that the best way to pursue that is through professional management. We are one of the only buildings that does not have a professional manager on the Galt.
At this time, I would like to move that the Regency Tower Board adopt a committee for the purpose of searching and hiring of a manager to commence serving approximately April 1, 2009. Eric Berkowitz seconded the motion; unanimously approved.
The President will appoint a committee to select a slate of managers to recommend to the Board of Directors.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Election of Officers
March 13, 2008 - It was announced that Eric Berkowitz has declined the position of Vice President due to his time consuming duties as Vice President of the Galt Mile Advisory Board and Galt Mile Presidents Council. The President called for nominations for Board officers.
Fern McBride nominated Dott Nicholson-Brown for President, seconded by Eric Berkowitz, unanimously approved.
Dee Lanzillo nominated Iris Anastasi for Vice-President, seconded by Eric Berkowitz, unanimously approved.
Iris nominated Fern McBride for Secretary, seconded by Eric Berkowitz, unanimously approved.
Iris nominated Bill Tennenbaum for Treasurer, seconded by Bob Nagle, unanimously approved.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Screening 
Committee
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| Thanks Margie! |
A motion was made by Iris Anastasi that the Screening Policy of the Regency Tower Association be changed as follows: The normal application and investigation procedures for Sales and Leases will remain intact. Screenings will be conducted by two or three Board Members and/or the Secretary. The motion was seconded by Bob Nagle and unanimously approved.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Association Owned Parking Space
Eric Berkowitz
November 8, 2007 - Eric Berkowitz made a motion that the Association owned parking space #81 be auctioned at an opening bid of $32,000.00. The motion was seconded by Bill Tennenbaum and unanimously approved.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Barbecue Grill
Dee Lanzillo
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| No BBQ Fee! |
October 18, 2007 - Shared that in the past a $50.00 deposit was required to reserve the Barbecue Grill, which was returned if the grill was cleaned properly. Due to administrative problems, an agreement was reached to charge a $10.00 fee for usage of the grill. This fee was applied towards gas and cleaning. I propose that there no longer be a fee for the usage of the grill; however, reservations to use the grill must still be made with either the office or security. After comments from the Board, Dee made a motion that the fee for the use of the Barbecue Grill be removed, seconded by Iris Anastasi, unanimously approved.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Policy Regarding Inspection of Records
Iris Anastasi
October 18, 2007 - We have experienced repeated requests for inspection of Association records by 2-3 of the same individuals which disrupts the daily work flow and increases the Association operations due to the required monitoring. We were advised by our attorney to institute an equitable inspection policy. I therefore move that the policy prepared by our attorney be instituted. Some features are:
- No more than one (1) request per month;
- Hours for review are 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, not to exceed two (2) hours;
- $.25 per copy; payment in advance.
Dee Lanzillo seconded the motion; unanimously approved.
Dott announced that copies of the policy are available in the Office.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Owner 
Request
Eileen Bendis
October 18, 2007 - Eileen Bendis, Kathy Robins, Shirley Hopkins and Ron Forment asked questions regarding exercising the Right of First Refusal on Unit 1701. Bill Tennenbaum and other Board Members responded.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Election of Officers
March 13, 2007 - A motion was made by Fern McBride that the Board of Directors retain the same officers as last year. The motion was seconded by Bill Tennenbaum and unanimously approved.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Introduction of Candidates
Dott Nicholson-Brown
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| Candidate Intros |
February 13, 2007 - It was requested that we introduce any candidates running for the Board of Directors that are present. Dee Lanzillo, Iris Anastasi, Bob Nagle and Dott Nicholson-Brown introduced themselves and gave brief comments about what they had accomplished and why they should be re-elected. The only other candidate in the room, Joyce Ramey, declined the opportunity to comment.Fern McBride, Secretary
Holiday Blackout Period
February 13, 2007 - An issue came up at a recent Round Table meeting that we have a blackout period for construction/contractor work during Thanksgiving and the Christmas Holiday. It was suggested that this restriction occur when the office is closed: Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Years, Fourth of July. After discussion, it was decided that there would be further consideration of this issue before a decision is reached.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Rafael Rates 
Fire Extinguishers
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| Look for “ABC” |
December 12, 2006 - The subject of fire extinguishers in each apartment was brought up by Ad Wilson at a recent Round Table meeting. Rafael Alleguez investigated the issue and presented the following information: The best fire extinguishers for our units would be dry powder that are marked “ABC” as they are good for all types of fires. They are relatively inexpensive - $15 to $25 each, and, if possible, it would be good to have two extinguishers in each apartment.
The Board is recommending that all unit owners place at least one fire extinguisher in their apartment.
Fern McBride, Secretary
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| Professor Bill |
Board Action
November 9, 2006 - A suggestion was received that our Treasurer conduct a class in understanding financial reports.
Fern McBride, Secretary
Community Association 
Day Event
Regency Tower Residents Fight for Condo Rights
Eric Peter Berkowitz
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| Eric - CA Day Event |
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| Rep. Rene Garcia |
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| Rep. Juan Zapata |
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| Galt Mile Residents with Sen. Jeffrey Atwater |
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| Dott Nicholson-Brown and Rep. Juan Zapata |
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| Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff |
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| Marty Glazer and Eric Berkowitz discuss bad bill with Juan Zapata |
Zapata admitted that the bill was fraught with terrible deficiencies, characterizing it as, “a work in progress.” After a few more minutes of discourse, Zapata challenged us, asking that we send him constructive criticism of his bill as opposed to an across the board thumbs down. As he is wont to do, Pio Ieraci accepted the challenge, agreeing to volunteer me to write a critique of the bill’s 48 pages of regressive regulations. The response will be reviewed by the Galt Mile Community Association Board of Directors and forwarded to Mr. Zapata, who promised to take our concerns into consideration when passing the bill through the committee process.
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| Sen. Diaz de la Portilla |
Depending on Zapata to correct this bill is a futile aspiration. Despite the bill’s past failures, Zapata knows that it only has to be passed once to transfigure the Condominium system into public housing.
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| Condo Residents at State Capitol |
Insurance 
and Hurricane 
Windows
Bill Tennenbaum
In order to keep all owners apprised of a very important part of our maintenance expenses, I want to update you concerning the situation with QBE, the company that handles our building master insurance policy.Bill Alerts Regency Residents
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| QBE - Last Chance |
If we were to be non-renewed and have to go high-risk, the average increase in quarterly maintenance to each owner will be around $500 per quarter per unit! To those 21 of you, please cooperate with the by-laws and do not hurt your neighbors or force the Board to take legal action. HURRICANE WINDOWS ARE NOT OPTIONAL ANYMORE, THEY ARE REQUIRED!
We are now less than 90 days from the 2006 hurricane season. Let's continue to work together for the benefit of our building, our investments and our lives.
Board Action
Election of Officers
Fern: Keep
Same Officers
Fern McBride
A motion was made by Fern McBride that the Board of Directors retain the same officers as last year. The motion was seconded by Iris Anastasi and unanimously approved.
