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This website was created as a central hub for sharing information relevant to our community. Currently, our primary goal has been focused on transitioning control of the HOA from Robert Rush Ellis (the builder) to the community residents. To ensure the privacy and accuracy of information shared, only registered users can access the content. Users are manually approved after verification to maintain a secure and trusted environment.
Overall Summary
Financial and Legal Matters
- Bridlewood Homeowners Association: We confirmed the legal existence and formal registration of the Bridlewood Homeowners Association as an LLC under the sole control of Robert Rush Ellis. This structure currently limits our ability to take formal action prior to official turnover.
- Road/Ditch Infrastructure: An independent investigation confirmed the existence of a security bond posted to guarantee the final paving of all roads and proper remediation of any ditch-related drainage issues. This original bond, in place for approximately 15 years, is due for renewal in 2024. The commencement of recent engineering work suggests a high likelihood of road and ditch remediation occurring in 2024, potentially in advance of the bond renewal deadline.
- Pond Inspection and Remediation: An August 25, 2023, inspection by the Sussex Conservation District (SCD) identified concerns regarding the pond and swales. The report, which will be made available to residents, highlights the need for tree removal within the basin, embankments, and spillway, along with proper swale maintenance to ensure optimal functionality. While the SCD cannot enforce their recommendations, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) may have the authority to do so.
- Homeowner Association Dues: As previously noted, inconsistencies have been identified in HOA billing practices. Conversations with lawyers have confirmed that retroactive billing can only be applied for the past two years.
Transition Planning
- Turnover Steps and Timing: Due to Rush’s current control of the HOA, formal actions by homeowners remain limited until the official transition of leadership. We are actively exploring and preparing for various scenarios to ensure a seamless handover process, but progress will be limited until he engages with us.
- Potential Use of a Property Management Company: Initial discovery discussions have been held with Tide Water Property Management regarding their potential role in handling HOA operations. This was to only to gather information. Subject to further bidding and evaluation, a property management company could provide essential services such as dues billing and collection, financial management, vendor oversight, and expense payment, at an estimated cost of $10-$15 per month per lot. This approach would alleviate the need for unpaid volunteers or significant resource investment by the HOA to manage these critical functions.
- Board of Directors and Officer Structure: Subject to obtaining any information about the Board from Rush, we have obtained a sample organizational structure from the Reddenwood HOA for reference. A typical HOA Board comprises 3-7 members who appoint officers within the group. Considering the size of our community, a 4-member Board with combined officer roles seems efficient. Potential positions include President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Staggered two-year terms, with initial one-year terms for the President and Vice President, could ensure continuity and smooth transitions. We encourage interested residents to consider serving on the Board and to participate in an election process that could be held even before the official turnover, if Rush enables it, allowing the elected Board to be prepared and hit the ground running upon assuming leadership.