1.  Are the current MPOA sponsored Community Events sufficient to fulfill community spirit? Do you believe there should be more events, fewer events, or different types of events? Please elaborate.

Having the benefit of recently living outside of Montclair yet being very active here  and in other communities, I can say confidently Montclair’s events set it apart in the area. Other neighborhoods have events, but nothing on the scale of Montclair, which has a nice mix of family-, kid-, teen- and adult-friendly activities. We should always be open to new ways to make events even better. In this tough economy, we should strive to offer more no- or low-cost activities involving all aspects of the community. I’d like to see free concerts, with attractions like the Army Blues Jazz Ensemble.

2.  What are your views regarding security in Montclair?

I’ve talked with friends and neighbors about this topic, and obviously, maintaining a safe, secure neighborhood is in all of our interests. Yet, there are diverse opinions regarding how we should approach security. My view is we should continue to contract with Prince William County Police, but we should also consider bringing back hired security for a more community-based approach for issues not necessarily appropriate for local law enforcement (such as lake security in the summer months). We should utilize people who know and care about our community, rather than simply using some outside agency just looking for a paycheck.

3.  Do you think the current covenant enforcement procedures are adequate and effective?

Covenant enforcement is critical in Montclair where standards have a direct impact on home values and quality of life. I think a more “customer-friendly” approach is needed. After all, the staff work for us in the community and their attitude and demeanor should reflect that. In doing so, perhaps MPOA would do a better job of telling people what is wrong with their property and how they can fix the situation before things get too aggressive.  If we change the way we notify—and do things positively, people will be more willing to cooperate and have a better overall experience. 

4.  Do you believe MPOA needs to invest in additional amenities to remain competitive with newer communities? If so, what improvements would you support?

Montclair is a community unlike any other around here—beauty and amenity-wise. How many communities have a lake people can swim and boat on; beaches; fabulous restaurants; have access to pools, tennis courts, a golf course and club; and great fireworks?  Not many, so we are very fortunate to live in a place with such a rich array of amenities. However, it is vital we keep our current infrastructure in top form and make new investments that will continue to make Montclair a premier community.  I’d also like to see residents given more options in utilizing existing amenities.

5. What major issues do you see facing the Montclair community?  What are your recommendations to address them?

Property values are perhaps the biggest issue affecting most of us, largely due to current market conditions. With a tighter market, communities need to stay as competitive as possible. Part of that is addressing the community’s reputation regarding covenant enforcement; part maintaining common areas and keeping amenities top-notch and unique; part ensuring strong curb appeal; and part implementing new ideas for how we do things here. For example, one idea is to setup a voluntary online community directory for each home to share info about their family to more effectively connect residents and shared interests.