Lake shares first look at 2025 budget

By Heather Michon
Correspondent

The Lake Monticello Owners Association gave residents a sneak peek at the 2025 budget at an information session at Ashlawn Clubhouse on Wednesday afternoon (Aug. 21).

The focus of the session was proposed changes to dues and fees.

After approving a $150 increase to annual dues earlier this summer, next year’s dues will climb to $1,163.52 per household. Improved property fees, which pay for trash pickup and storm cleanup, are expected to remain at around $283.

Most fees will rise by between $2-5 if they change at all.

More significant increases are proposed for the golf course. Troon, the management company overseeing golf operations, recommends an increase of 5-7 percent. 

For example, a standard 18-hole membership would increase from $1,800 to $1,900. Family plans would increase from $2,625 to $2,800.

Chief David Wells of the Lake Monticello Police Department recommended several small increases in fees related to barcodes and construction to help defray administrative costs. 

“Everything takes staff time,” he said. 

Audience members asked questions throughout the session, particularly regarding the pool. 

The seasonal family plan prices are expected to increase by three percent, from $415 to $424.

Many comments focused less on the fees than the free passes offered to members starting next season. 

This benefit was promised if the dues increase was approved: each household would receive a pass for 25 free pool visits annually for the next five years. 

It became clear that details of how the program will work –and its impact on revenue–are still unknown. 

At the monthly Board of Directors meeting on Thursday  (Aug. 22), Treasurer Mark Kelly reported that the association’s projected revenue will climb from $6.5 million this year to $7.7 million in 2025. This is almost entirely attributable to the $150 dues increase, and much of it will go to build up the Major Repairs and Renovations (MRR) fund. 

Members can view documents on the 2025 budget under the ‘Finance’ section of the LMOA.org website. Budget sessions and hearings are scheduled for  Oct. 17, Oct. 31, and Nov. 7. The Board of Directors is expected to vote on the finalized budget on Nov. 14.