By Mary-Justine Lanyon
Immediately following the Aug. 22 meeting of the Arrowhead Lake Association board of directors, the candidates running for the board in the September election had the chance to tell the members why they should vote for them.
Three seats are up for election:
- At Large A: Justin Frank and Scott Rundle
- East District: Gary Clifford and Garin Vartanian
- South District: Paul M. Cate and Alan Kaitz
The candidates’ forum was moderated by Nathan Godwin for the third time. Godwin used AI to produce the topics and then made the questions his own. He urged both the candidates and the audience to be courteous.
Each candidate had two minutes to make an opening statement. Godwin called on them in alphabetical order.
Paul Cate said he had purchased a home after renting for nine years. “I love the mountain and have had a great time up here,” he said. He noted he spends a lot of time mountain biking, water skiing, golfing, hiking, fishing and Jeeping.
“The lake is the heart of the community,” said Gary Clifford. “I want to protect the quality of life that makes life here so special.” He added his focus will be on responsible stewardship. “This board need redirection and new focus based on the bylaws.”
Justin Frank said he doesn’t care about attention, power or collecting accolades. “I joined the board last year to make sure the experience you have today is the same tomorrow.” His family has been part of the mountain for four generations. “I will be focused on keeping the lake safe and enjoyable and making fiscally responsible decisions.”
Alan Kaitz noted he has been on the ALA board for almost 10 years. The most important thing, he said, is “being there for you. Every member deserves to be treated fairly and with respect.” He added he has worked hard to build relationships based on trust and personal respect.
Garin Vartanian said his main goal is “to keep ALA the way it is – as solid and stable as possible.” He said that he and Ted Heyck have been advocating for every ALA member. “We saw a problem – it was our civic duty to get involved. I will advocate for every homeowner. I want to be the voice for every member.” He added he wants to help ALA grow and flourish.
Godwin then asked the candidates eight questions.
The first question addressed why they want to serve on the board, what their top priorities are and what leadership experiences they have. Most pointed to loving the lake and wanting to see it protected. They also said the board has to listen to the members.
Question 2 asked what principles should guide the board as they address major infrastructure responsibilities like the valve inlet project. The candidates appeared to agree that there should be a subcommittee (which is in place under the leadership of David Dahl), that the members and the entire community should be involved.
Balancing affordable member fees with the need to maintain ALA’s facilities, equipment, staffing, reserves and long-term financial stability was the third question. The candidates praised General Manager Mike Pate for getting delayed projects completed. They felt going to the members is important as some are willing to pay more to get more.
The fourth question asked about the line between the board setting policy and the general manager and staff operating the association. There was agreement that the board sets the vision for ALA but should not be involved in the day-to-day management of the association; that falls to the general manager and his staff.
As for what information members should receive about finances, projects, contracts and board decisions, the candidates felt that information is available through e-blasts and on the website. However, it was noted the website is not always easy to navigate and should be improved.
What standards should the board use for competitive bidding and contractor selection when undertaking a major project? The candidates agreed that competitive bidding is a must – and is being done.
Question 7 asked about balancing boating and swimming rules with lake safety. A couple of candidates said the safety is especially important as Lake Arrowhead is a small lake with a lot of boats. They agreed the rules are being enforced effectively and all said education first is the way to go.
The final question asked how to balance competing interests of members while representing members as a whole. Listen to the members was the advice while acknowledging that different districts have different interests.
The five candidates present – Scott Rundle was unable to attend the forum – then had another two minutes to make closing statements.
“I don’t vote on any matter without doing due diligence,” said Cate. “Budgeting is the foundation of the organization. I will remember who I work for – all the members and for the benefit of the lake.”
“We all share the same goal,” said Clifford. “We want to protect the lake and preserve the mountain lifestyle. I believe board members should listen first. Every decision should be made with the long-term health of the association in mind.”
“I want to make sure Lake Arrowhead doesn’t turn into something we never intended,” said Frank. “It’s about preservation, holding on to traditions.”
“I believe in honesty, budgeting and transparency,” said Kaitz. “I am always willing to stand up for your rights as members and can promise I will continue to do that.”
“I have been a zealous advocate for three years,” said Vartanian. “I am here to serve the members. I will listen to the members and serve them.”
Following the forum, the members present had an opportunity to meet the candidates and ask additional questions.
Voting will begin on Sept. 1 and conclude on Sept. 15 when the inspector of elections will announce the results.
The candidates’ statements are available on the ALA website – www.ala-ca.org – as is a video recording of the candidates’ forum. Interested members may watch the video to hear how each candidate responded to the questions.
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