I think we are talking two different permissions. I looked at the 1999 and 2008 leases (the two old ones I have) and I think it is the "uses" permission you are looking at in those two not construction and doesn't spell out who could authorize other "uses" leaving it to the "Lessor".

I'll quote directly from the January 1, 2004 lease:

"The property hereby leased shall be used for parking only, and Lessee shall use the property for no other purpose without the written consent of Lessor."

Ted, the Lessor is the Ocean Pines Association. Are you suggesting it is wrong to leave it up to the Ocean Pines Association? I'll admit adding the board is probably a good idea, but it sounds like you are suggesting we can't trust the GM or the president. The change surely is of no great benefit and Seacrets could probably care less.

Are you saying the clause quoted above above would permit building a 20x120 structure totally unrelated to parking and on the opposite end of the property, structures such as bathrooms, storage and seating? Such structures and their use is seen as "parking" and compatible with the use terms of the lease? Come on.

when I see some post arguments or speculation not based on any facts, comments based on hearsay or broad generalizations.

Assuming you are talking about this Seacrets discussion, what did you see in my original post and newsletter commentary that was based on pure speculation?

Perhaps you should be more concerned about folks like Marty and Jeff who post statements saying the property tax paid by Seacrets helps OPA's bottom line; statements then put in local papers with a net result of misleading association members.

Also, keep in mind there is a big difference between commentary/opinion and the pure misinformation coming from some individuals. Had I not decided to look into this we would still be hearing the misinformation about the property taxes, the first refusal business, not know of the reduction of the assessed value from $3 million to $1.3 million, etc.

Is this a burning issue for most association members? Probably not. Makes no difference to me if it is or it isn't.