Some thoughts about Aquarius board elections by Arkady Chase

I believe that campaigning through personal attacks and unfounded accusations does disservice to our community just as much as the circulation of demonstrably inaccurate information. To clarify, Aquarius was never “on the verge of collapse,” and the suggestion that we were “very close to a Surfside‑type disaster” is a significant exaggeration not supported by the facts.

Many unit owners who served on prior boards—before the last two administrations—contributed substantial time and effort under the circumstances and within the environment in which they served. The photograph that has been circulated does not depict a structural component of the building. It shows a decorative soffit that concealed piping and had previously collapsed during a hurricane. It came down again during the West pool deck restoration when a contractor, while removing the leveling layer of concrete, inadvertently cut the bolts securing it.

Living Room PH5N 2023 and 2024

Large‑scale projects sometimes result in unforeseen and undesirable damage. During the roof restoration, the North building experienced two flooding incidents that caused significant damage.  My apartment experienced extensive damage that required major renovation. As the attached photo demonstrates, my living room became a construction zone.

However, I do not see how these past incidents are relevant to the current election. What concerns me—and many other unit owners—is that this tone of campaigning fosters a confrontational and unhealthy atmosphere that benefits no one. Board members and candidates should set a higher standard by working to unite the community and promote a respectful, supportive environment. For years, our community has struggled with rumor‑spreading and unfounded accusations; we do not need more of it.

Continuity and open communication between successive boards, and between the board and unit owners, would benefit everyone. We are neighbors and should treat one another with dignity and respect. When issues arise, they should be addressed in a civil and constructive manner. Association funds should not be used for legal letters directed at the only platform providing open information, nor should tens of thousands of dollars be spent suing a neighbor over a minor violation.

Unit owners deserve to be treated with respect. At the recent candidates’ night, instead of presenting ideas for improving our community, the discussion devolved into mutual accusations—precisely the type of conduct one of the unit owners publicly criticized.

Many neighbors have also expressed concerns about the tone in the management office and the manner in which unit owners have been addressed. I hope the board will take these concerns seriously. It is important to remember that unit owners fund all association expenses, including salaries. Finally, while the building’s interior condition and structural integrity are critically important, they cannot replace the value of a normal, friendly, and respectful community. That is what will make our association a desirable and pleasant place to live.

Sincerely,

Arkady Chase,  PH5N

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