Commentary by Joe Reynolds

Arriving any day in your mail box is an OPA referendum package asking for your YES or NO vote on building a new $4.3 million Yacht Club.

I’m voting YES and I urge all association members to seriously consider a YES vote.

I’ve listened to all the arguments for and against; I’ve attended every board meeting and heard all the board discussion of the subject, something few association members can say.

I will not attempt to present some detailed analysis as to how I reached my decision. I am very aware of every argument for and against. Each side can present arguments worthy of consideration, and each side is quite capable of spinning their own particular preference.

My decision is primarily based on what I believe is in the best long term interests of Ocean Pines.

I also realize there are hurdles to overcome even if association members vote YES, and I would be remiss if I did not point them out, as you will probably not hear this from other sources.

Potential problems are primarily related to what transpires over the next few months with regard to any Worcester County or State of Maryland requirements during any project approval process. Among the permitting issues are storm water management, parking, critical area concerns, and impervious surface area.

Regardless, a YES vote is the right thing to do, and will send a signal that association members support the Board of Directors on its fundamental Yacht Club decision – the building needs to be replaced and with a structure similar in size and capabilities as the current one.