June Newsletter ObservationsBy Janet Morris

June Newsletter Observations

The promise of a full board and the secret that we have no treasurer!

By Janet Morris

The June newsletter states that the board is “looking forward to introducing new

directors during the June monthly meeting.” I am looking forward to that, too, since the

newsletters have been teasing about this since February.

But what the newsletter does not reveal is that our treasurer, Marty Montano, recently

sold his home and moved out of the complex. Not a word of thanks to Mr. Montano for

his many years in this important role, no wishes for his happiness in his future

endeavors and no notice to the membership at large that we’ve lost a key player!

 Currently, we have 4 board members.

 Per our bylaws, there should be 7 directors.

I admit I have a particular biased interest in this topic, since I volunteered to be a board

member and received a rejection letter from the board dated May 6, 2026. The only

reason I was given was: “It’s crucial to be responsible and fairly acknowledge those

members who previously offered their volunteer services as has been announced by the

Board.”

I met a resident last month who told me they are about to be appointed. Since there has

been no public discussion of possible candidates, if this individual and/or others are

about to be appointed, it is certain that the decision was made outside of regular open

meetings.

Members benefit from hearing the board's discussion before appointments are made,

and it is actually the law. In California, under the Davis-Stirling Act, an HOA board must

vote to appoint a director in an open, publicly noticed meeting. Members should be

informed as to what criteria are applied and how candidates are evaluated. Members

should also be notified when someone leaves the board!

If we are in the fortunate position of having more candidates than open seats, we should

let the candidates introduce themselves and answer questions about their interest and

qualifications. Yes, the decision to make appointments and assign director

responsibilities is ultimately up to the board, but members deserve an opportunity to

hear the deliberations and meet the people who have stepped up to volunteer for

leadership roles within our organization. We should also have the opportunity to thank

and say good bye to people who are leaving the community after filling leadership roles.

Finally, I note that the June newsletter does not provide the date or the start time for the

upcoming June meeting. Based on the third Wednesday schedule, the date is June

17 th , so mark your calendars! The start time is not clear as only the open forum is listed

as being at 6 pm. Please plan to check the agendas that will be posted at either pool a

few days before the meeting, so you can find out the correct start time.

I’m hoping to see many members at the June 17 meeting (7850 Quill Drive, Downey)

and I look forward to hearing the board discussion regarding new director appointments.

I also wish Marty Montano good luck, health and happiness as he moves on from the

Stonewood HOA!

- Janet

PS: Everyone is encouraged to sign the petition to open our monthly meetings to allow

hybrid attendance, either in-person or through a virtual meeting platform such as Zoom.

This would allow all members, including the board, more flexibility in attending,

contributing and staying informed.