Community Matters by Deborah
Still Waiting: Mystery of the Central Area Costs

If the OVA Board is unable to effectively analyze and interpret the ArchiLOGIX Cost Modeling Report in a timely manner, then the simple and logical solution is to hire someone who can. Relying on professional expertise to explain how the cost models translate into real-world estimates is not an admission of weakness—it is a demonstration of due diligence and responsible leadership. Without a clear understanding of the report, the Board cannot make informed decisions about the Central Area Complex project, which has significant financial implications for the entire community.

Due Diligence Is Not Optional

The Board has a fiduciary responsibility to ensure that decisions about major expenditures, like those proposed in the Central Area Complex project, are made with transparency, accuracy, and accountability in a timely manner. This OVA responsibility includes fully understanding the cost models, construction feasibility, and design assumptions presented in the report. The expertise of ArchiLOGIX and its subcontractors is not just a resource—it is a necessity. Of note, ArchiLOGIX and architect Mich Conner have a long working history with the OVA.

If the Board or OVA staff cannot decipher how the model translates into real-world OVA costs, they should directly engage these very familiar professionals for clarification now. ArchiLOGIX, as the architectural firm responsible for the design, can explain the methodology behind the estimates and how each component of the project contributes to the overall cost. Similarly, subcontractors with an OVA history like Nordby Construction, can provide real-world construction insights, including how inflation, labor, and material costs might affect the project. Indeed, ArchiLOGIX was awarded a no-bid contract for the Central Area Complex three concepts which included cost modeling estimatation. In open forum at Board meetings, board members emphasized that ArchiLOGIX was awarded the contract due to familiarity with Oakmont’s needs and leadership.

A Missed Opportunity for Transparency

Failure to publish the three concepts as well as cost modeling estimates raises serious concerns about the Board’s commitment to transparency. Our membership has the right to clear, detailed cost estimates before voting on future Board members in a few weeks, because major project decisions are involved. Without this information, members are left in the dark about potential financial implications, leading to frustration and mistrust. No one wants to be a low-information voter.

Consulting with ArchiLOGIX and subcontractors would provide the following benefits:

1. Clarity for the Membership: A well-documented explanation of how costs were calculated can be shared with members, building trust in the process.
2. Realistic Cost Adjustments: Any discrepancies or unrealistic assumptions in the report can be identified and addressed before moving forward.
3. Professional Accountability: Engaging the firms demonstrates that the Board is holding its partners accountable for accurate and transparent reporting.

Asking the Right Questions

Engaging ArchiLOGIX and subcontractors is not just about clarifying costs—it is about ensuring that the Board is making informed decisions. We paid for concepts and cost estimates. The following questions should be addressed:

• Are the cost estimates in the report consistent with current market conditions in Sonoma County?
• How were contingency costs calculated, and are they sufficient for a project of this scope?
• Are there any assumptions in the design or estimates that could lead to cost overruns?
• Most importantly, what steps can be taken to align the project with the community’s financial comfort level?

Building Trust Through Action

The OVA Board cannot afford to sideline these questions or assume that the membership will accept vague explanations. For example, at the January board meeting very few specifics were addressed in an oral report by President Heidi Klyn. By consulting directly with ArchiLOGIX and subcontractors, the Board has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to informed decision-making and fiscal responsibility. Transparency builds trust, and trust is essential for a project of this magnitude to succeed.

If the Board has already consulted these firms, it should proactively share the findings with the membership. If it has not, it is imperative to do so immediately. The stakes are too high for anything less.

Conclusion

The OVA Board can either embrace its responsibility to fully understand and explain the costs of the Central Area Complex project to membership, or it can risk alienating the very community it serves. By leveraging the expertise of ArchiLOGIX and subcontractors—or hiring an independent professional to clarify the report if necessary—the Board can ensure that its decisions are not only informed but also transparent and accountable.

This common-sense approach to decision-making will not only help safeguard the financial well-being of the community but also restore trust in the Board’s ability to act in the best interest of its members. The time to act is now, before another opportunity to build trust is lost.
Email your questions and comments to:

• President Heidi Klyn, Heidi.klyn@oakmontvillage.com
• General Manager Christel Antone, Christel@oakmontvillage.com

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