To the Massanutten Community:
This might come as a bit of a surprise to some, but this post is in praise of MPOA and all that it brings to the community. I write this because I know there’s been a degree of misunderstanding, leading to anger, regarding the MPOA Board’s decision to eliminate the Massanutten Police Department.
I was not there; in fact, I didn’t even know the question would be called. But, I do know it wasn’t an easy decision for them to make.
To my surprise, I’ve heard a few suggestions that the MPOA should be disbanded. In response, I’d like to note a few things MPOA provides to the community. Let’s start with the legal aspects: under Virginia law, homeowners’ associations are required when a subdivision is created with a common area that’s available to all and which must be maintained. At Massanutten, that includes roadways and public spaces that are enjoyed by homeowners and visitors alike. Without MPOA, those properties could not be maintained and enjoyed by its members, and they would have to be sold or turned over to another entity and privatized.
MPOA is unusual among homeowners’ associations. Only a small minority of HOAs operate gatehouses and private security services, let alone a police department. And very few actually have profit centers like MPOA does – notably its go-kart and mini-golf operations which generate significant revenue. These attractions are enjoyed by MPOA members and guests alike and, perhaps most importantly, they help offset HOA fees.
In a recent thread on the Massanutten Next-door page, a member of the community wrote:
“We, the owners of property in Massanutten, have put our MPOA board in a horrible spot. We complain about our assessment then we complain about losing a service (police) . . .
“. . . I don’t agree with everything the board does but they do the best they can. . . We need to work with the board, not constantly criticize them when they give us one thing but not the other. This mountain is a beautiful place to live with lots of things to enjoy.”
This IS a beautiful place, and a special one, for those who live, work and visit here. As I shared at the 2018 community Townhall, it is not at all surprising that the Massanutten areas were recognized as a top resort community by Business Insider. This recognition is easily explained by the location, amenities, and community environment, but it should also be noted how critical the community anchor (the owner’s association) is to that equation.
MPOA’s board members volunteer their time in order to represent the interests of their neighbors. Sometimes, as with this vote, they have to make difficult decisions – even if they know those decisions will be unpopular. That takes courage, and I admire them for it.
MPOA is essential in keeping this special corner of Virginia a wonderful, vibrant community. We don’t always agree on the best way to achieve a given goal, but we usually agree on the goals themselves. I’m grateful MPOA is there – and I hope that with a deeper understanding of all they contribute, you are too.
Cordially,
Matthias Smith, VP and General Manager, Massanutten Resort
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