Where we have been:

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For decades, Marina Hills was welcomed by a beautiful entry fountain. In 2022, the fountain pumps failed. Replacement pumps with increased flow were installed, and based on the opinions of community experts which includes an engineer specializing in hydraulics, that increased pressure contributed to pipe failures, damage to the foundation, and ultimately made the fountain inoperable.  The journey of the fountain repair begins.... 

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Where we are:

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The rebuild process has been extensive and deliberate. It included consulting an architect for redesign, engaging multiple engineering disciplines (soils, structural, and hydraulics), developing detailed construction documents, bidding the project based on those specifications, and ultimately signing a $1.4 million construction contract.

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Construction began in late July 2025. An unnecessary six-week delay followed after additional documentation and expanded City involvement were required beyond what project engineers initially recommended. The plans were revised, re-engineered, and formally approved and stamped by the City. Construction resumed on December 8, and the fountain base was successfully poured on December 17.

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Insurance Issues:

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Initially, the Board elected not to pursue insurance coverage due to concerns about potential premium increases. In August 2023, the Board reversed course and submitted an insurance claim. Approximately $750,000 was received at that time, which covered only a portion of the total reconstruction cost.

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The Association is now pursuing an additional $600,000 in insurance reimbursement. I worked directly with the HOA’s new attorney to respond to the insurer’s technical construction questions. That submission was completed in November, and we are currently awaiting the insurance company’s determination.

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As discussed in Board meetings, there will not be a special assessment related to the fountain.

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Approximate Overall Cost to Rebuild the Fountain:

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Prior to construction, administrative, design, engineering, documentation, and permit costs totaled approximately $200,000. Construction-related change items to date total approximately $50,000. The current estimated total cost to rebuild the fountain is approximately $1.6 million.

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Community Operations Committee role:

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As Co-Chair of the Community Operations Committee, and with the help of experts within our community, we have identified and corrected design issues that could have resulted in more than $300,000 in unnecessary costs. My focus has been on fiscal discipline, preventing avoidable change orders, and ensuring clear communication between the construction team and the Board.

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A consistent message I emphasize with vendors is simple: Marina Hills is not an open checkbook.