To the Massanutten Community:
I must admit that I was every bit as surprised by the MPOA Board vote to disband the Massanutten Police Department as many of you were. Great Eastern, by longstanding arrangement, has a “Developer’s Seat” on the MPOA Board. I currently occupy that seat, and treat that privilege with respect; there are times when MPOA’s Board President asks me to recuse on Executive Committee discussions, and I always comply.
Such was the case on Saturday. Frankly, I had no idea that the EC discussion would center on calling a vote on MPD. Nor was I in the meeting when the vote was called; I found out after the fact, as you did.
Board Chair Liz Walker, in Monday’s email to membership, cited liability concerns and staffing issues as the reason that the Board voted almost unanimously to disband MPD. We agree with both rationales. And from our perspective, I’d add two more: MPOA faces some significant financial challenges in the coming years and MPD is MPOA’s single biggest expense.
Besides, more sophisticated and deeper law enforcement capability is already available to – and being paid for by – members of this community.
So I think it was the correct decision, for the reasons Liz cited and with regard to both optimizing law enforcement in the community and bringing MPOA back to fiscal health. And I applaud the Board for its courage – especially knowing that the decision would be unpopular.
Our goal, long term, has always been about preserving a wonderful, vibrant community – one in which year-round residents, timeshare owners, and guests feel welcome, safe, and valued. Though I’m aware some MPOA members view the current situation as a significant loss, I ask that you consider the possibility that what lies ahead could very well be far better for all.
Sincerely,
Matthias Smith, VP/General Manager, Massanutten Resort
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