Dear Friends,

Good Morning America featured a story on June 11 about the “Tik Tok Door Kicking Challenge.” If you
did not see this story the link to paste into your browser is:
https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/video/122726672

The police are issuing a warning about this trend “saying the prank is not only illegal but also potentially
dangerous for everyone involved.”
​
This alarming trend is happening in Venetian Isles. A VI Property Owner has been the victim of this “prank”
for over a year and has involved the St. Pete Police. Now, it is time to involve the VI community. Attached
is a “ring cam” photo of one of the persons involved in this prank. If you know the person pictured, or he
is one of your children, have a conversation with him to get this behavior to STOP. The SPPD are not
treating this lightly and arrests will be made.

Lastly, as our community continues its recovery, let’s continue to be patient and kind to our neighbors.

Sincerely,
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President

Dear Friends,

By this point, we all know what June 1 represents…the “official beginning of Hurricane Season.” For many years VI residents may have taken this date for granted. After what we experienced in 2024 I think we all need to take Hurricane Season more seriously and begin the preparations NOW. Stock up on all the items that have been described by all the major new outlets and consider picking up sandbags that are available from the City. If anyone has heard of unique surge protection measures let me know and I’ll pass your suggestions along in the next President’s Letter. These may be helpful to all VI residents especially those who have moved into the neighborhood recently.

After the May President’s Letter, wherein I wrote that the VIHA Board voted to temporarily suspend DRs 19, 20 and 34 which pertain to “Property Maintenance” with the understanding that VI is still recovering from the effects of the 2024 hurricanes, we received a number of reported DR violations through phone calls, emails and posting to the website. On June 7, members of the Deed Restriction Committee performed a street side review. It appears that at least 35 percent (my estimate only) of the homes in VI are still being repaired, under construction or unoccupied. The DR violations found on this review largely pertained to the parking of golf carts and boats/trailers in driveways, which were NOT temporarily suspended. As you were informed when you moved into VI, the Deed Restrictions are not voluntary, please abide by them.

It was clear from the streetside review that many property owners have worked very hard and incurred considerable expense to maintain/repair the appearance of their homes. The VI community THANKS each and every one of you for your efforts!!!!​

Below is an update on the ballots submitted for the 5 Deed Restrictions Revisions (“DRR”) that the Deed Restriction Revision Committee had advanced for consideration by VI property owners:  

As of May 11, 2025, 143 ballots have not been returned. The ability to use electronic balloting for future DRR approval has the requisite number of approvals and we are so close on the 4 others that were proposed based upon RESIDENT input!!! The DRs require 66.7% of property owner approval on any DRR. If you have not yet received a ballot or misplaced it, please let me know IMMEDIATELY and we will have one sent to your current location. This is your opportunity to determine the future of your neighborhood. Please vote, even if you are not in favor of any, or all, of the proposed DRRs.

Many residents have expressed their concern about the increased number of investor-owned properties in VI. The Tampa Bay Times has also featured articles about Blackrock, and other investment firms, acquiring numerous properties in a neighborhood and leasing them. The impact of this is to reduce the “community feel” of a neighborhood. With a large number of homes in VI currently unoccupied and awaiting repairs, that the current property owners may not be able to afford, there is the potential for an increased level of investor interest in VI. If purchased, some of these homes may be redeveloped and sold but others may be offered under long-term leases. The VIHA Board will be discussing this trend. Regardless of form of ownership or intention, EVERY property owner must abide by the DRs.

Finally, thanks to the 297 property owners who have paid their $200.00 annual VIHA Dues as of April 30. We’ve been featuring advertisers in the Homeowners Directory in each of the 2025 President’s Letters and this month we feature Klement Family Dental. We have a number of new directory advertisers this year so please try and patronize these companies, many of which are run by VI residents, and thank them for supporting the VIHA.

Lastly, as our community continues its recovery, let’s continue to be patient and kind to our neighbors.

Sincerely,
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President
[email protected]

Dear Friends,

April is such a beautiful time of the year to be in VI, and this year is no exception!!! However, it is clear that our community is still in recovery mode. I’d estimate that 30% of the homes in VI are still unoccupied or under construction/renovation. While our community will be attractive and more resilient to storms after all these projects are completed, we still have a way to go. Please be patient with your neighbors as they deal with permitting, hiring contractors and rebuilding.

The Architectural Review Committee (“ARC”) is ready to assist you with timely review and approval of your plans or suggesting changes to ensure compliance with current Deed Restrictions. Please contact any of the ARC members if you have a question regarding your projects after reviewing the materials posted on our website at http://www.ourvi.org/architectural-review.html

Update:

In summary, 313 (60%) of the ballots have been returned to date so there are 209 still outstanding.  At this point, none of the 5 proposed DRRs have received the required 349 (66.7%) votes for approval. So your vote is crucial. We understand that many of you have still not moved back into your homes so if you have not yet received a ballot, please let me know IMMEDIATELY and we will have one sent to your current location.

The Board believes 60% of the property owners voting is not yet representative of our community, so we extended the voting period until September 30, 2025.  This gives us more time to receive ballots during the summer months.

Also, the Deed Restriction Committee continues to enforce the Deed Restrictions within VI.  However, after consulting with our counsel, the Board approved a temporary suspension of the Deed Restrictions pertaining to the maintenance of the exterior of properties, specifically Deed Restrictions 19, 20 and 34.  ARC continues to review projects that require their approval in an expedited manner. Many thanks to Bob Brett and his team for keeping up with all the requests.

Thanks to the 294 property owners who have paid their $200.00 annual VIHA dues as of March 31.  As a reminder, we did not increase the annual dues in 2025. The 2025 VI Homeowners Directory has been delivered to dues paying members. We have a number of new directory advertisers this year, many of whom are VI residents, so please try to patronize these companies to thank them for supporting the VIHA. I’ll feature one, or a number, of these advertisers with each President’s Letter that I send out for 2025.

Also, if you are on social media, I’d encourage you to “like” the “Venetian Isles of St. Petersburg, FL” page on Facebook.  This page is supported by VI residents Jeff and Claire Copeland.

We really NEED more volunteers for VIHA Committee positions, particularly on the Deed Restrictions Committee.   This is a great way to meet your neighbors, work for the betterment of our community and have a little bit of fun while you are at it!!!  
The Committees within VI can be found on our website at:
http://www.ourvi.org/viha-committees.html

As evidenced by the 2024 Hurricane Season, it is never too early to start preparing for 2025. Let’s hope for the best but prepare for the worst.  Lastly, as our community continues its recovery, please continue to show your neighbors a little kindness, that can go a long way!!!


Sincerely,
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President

[email protected]g

Dear Venetian Isles Property Owners,
Our community stands at a crossroads. In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, we’ve faced unprecedented devastation—flooded homes, shattered roofs, and a long road to recovery. These changes—DR-50, DR-8, DR-3, DR-10, and DR-42—are not just updates; they’re a lifeline to rebuild smarter, stronger, and together. We need your vote now, and we need it “For” these revisions. Here’s why.
The Stakes Are High
Under our current rules, not voting counts as an “Against” vote. To pass, each revision needs 348 “For” votes—two-thirds of our 522 properties. Of the 53% that voted, the five DR revisions averaged over 86% approving. With only 278 ballots in, we’re falling short, not because these changes lack merit, but because silence is stifling progress. The storms damaged 80% of our homes and 50% sit empty, with owners displaced, rebuilding, or waiting for insurance checks. Property values have plummeted in the last five months—over 20 homes are for sale, and only a handful have sold this year. We can’t afford to let outdated restrictions hold us back when modern solutions are within reach.
Why These Changes Matter
These revisions aren’t arbitrary—they’re responses to your feedback, crafted by our Deed Restriction Revision Committee to meet today’s realities. Let’s break them down:
1. DR-50: Electronic Voting
o Why It’s a No-Brainer: For 50 years, we’ve relied on slow, costly mail ballots. Electronic voting streamlines elections, saves money, and ensures everyone—especially those displaced—can participate. It’s 2025—let’s join the digital age and make our voices heard effortlessly.
o Benefit: Faster decisions mean quicker action to protect and enhance our community.


2. DR-8: Seamed, Non-Corrosive Metal Roofs
o Why It’s Essential: Clay tile roofs, our current standard, became deadly missiles in Helene and Milton’s winds—cracking, leaking, and driving up repair costs. They were not made for Florida’s hurricanes. Seamed metal roofs (e.g., aluminum) are hurricane-resistant and can handle winds from 140-180 MPH, are leak-proof, and are virtually indestructible. They’re standard on high-end homes across Florida for a reason—they withstand high winds, hail, and debris. Take a short drive down Bayshore or Brightwaters and you’ll see that most of the new homes that are built or being built are using these types of roofs. They look modern and fabulous!
o Benefit: Stronger roofs mean fewer claims, lower insurance rates, and homes that endure. Plus, they boost curb appeal and property values in a market desperate for resilience.


3. DR-3: Cul-de-Sac Setback Alignment
o Why It Makes Sense: This aligns our rules with City code, letting cul-de-sac owners build garages 20 feet from the front setback (vs. 25 feet). It maximizes usable space on unique lots, mirroring  what’s already allowed citywide.
o Benefit: Increased functionality raises property values—not just for cul-de-sac homes, but for all of us, by showcasing a forward-thinking neighborhood.


4. DR-10: Garage Size and Modern Landscaping
o Why It’s Practical: This sets a clear 400-square-foot minimum for garages—ensuring space for two cars—and allows artificial turf, stone, and mulch in defined areas. Turf cuts water bills (a scarce and expensive resource post-storms), eliminates mowing costs, and resists drought and disease.
o Benefit: Sustainable, low-maintenance yards save money and time while enhancing our community’s appeal to buyers seeking eco-friendly homes.
5. DR-42: Dock Relief at Canal Pinch Points
o Why It’s Fair and Smart: Homes at canal ends—larger, often pricier lots—face “pinch points” that limit dock size under current rules. This revision adjusts limits (e.g., half the width beyond 50 feet for canals under 120 feet), ensuring 50-foot navigable channels—wider than city minimums. Of the 32 non-compliant docks in Venetian Isles, most would comply if it passes.
o Benefit: Compliant docks and lifts make these homes more attractive and desirable. This would help to lift all our property values. Without it, the VIHA faces costly lawsuits against 32  owners—or worse, a countersuit by the 32 owners could force even laxer rules. Let’s avoid division and expense; this compromise works for everyone.
Beyond the Basics: A Vision for Venetian Isles
These revisions aren’t just fixes—they’re investments. If all 278 ballots received so far were “For,” every DR would pass if abstentions didn’t count as “AGAINST”. That tells us the will is there—we just need everyone to act. Here’s what’s at stake:
 Property Values: Modern roofs, flexible setbacks, and dock relief signal a premium, resilient community. Buyers want homes that won’t crumble in the next storm—who doesn’t want that?
 Community Strength: Most of us are still rebuilding. These changes ease that burden—metal roofs resist hurricanes, turf saves resources, and docks enhance waterfront living. Voting “For” is a vote to help our
neighbors stand tall again.
 Unity Over Conflict: DR-42 alone could spark legal chaos—suing 32 owners would drain VIHA funds (dues haven’t risen despite our needs), and a countersuit could unravel all dock rules. Let’s unite for a solution, not fracture over enforcement.
Your Vote Is Your Voice
We get it—life is chaotic. If you haven’t received your ballot because you’re not home or if you need a replacement, you can request a new copy by sending an email to [email protected]. Our VIHA President, Rich Scanlon, sent a letter to all of us on 2/1/2025 asking us to contact him at 727-560-3655 or email him at [email protected] if you have any questions, I’m sure he’d be happy answer any questions or to rush a new ballot to your current address. Voting is simple: mark “For” on each of the five revisions, sign, and mail the prepaid postcard. Do it today, remember, not voting, counts as a, “Against” vote!
​A Call to Action
Spring is here, but hurricane season looms on June 1. We’ve lost enough—let’s not lose this chance to rebuild better. Picture Venetian Isles five years from now: storm-proof roofs gleaming, lush yards thriving without waste, docks welcoming boats, and property values climbing because we chose progress over stagnation. That starts with you.
Vote “For” all five revisions. Show kindness to your neighbors still piecing their lives back together. Let’s lift each other up and make Venetian Isles a beacon of resilience and pride. Mail your ballot now—every “For” vote brings us closer to 348.
Together, we rise.
Sincerely,
Bill Birkins
2080 Hawaii Avenue NE

Dear Friends,
For those of you who were not able to attend the January VIHA Annual Meeting, we had considerable discussion on the 5 Deed Restrictions Revisions(“DRR”) that the Deed Restriction Revision Committee had advanced for balloting by VI property owners.   The ballots were mailed to each property owner shortly thereafter and the preliminary results as of March 3, 2025 are shown below:

n summary, 234 (44.8%) of the ballots have been returned to date meaning there are still 288 that have not been returned.  With only 234 ballots returned to date, none of the 5 proposed DRRs have received the required 349 votes for approval, remember, we need 66.7% approval on any DRR, so your vote is crucial.  We understand that many of you have still not moved back into your homes yet.  If that is the case and you have not yet received a ballot, please let me know IMMEDIATELY and we will have one sent to your current location.

Also presenting at the 2025Annual Meeting were (i) Georgia Janas and Peggy Naruns from Northstar Realty providing their views of the future of VI property values; and (ii) Jeremy and Loretta Patterson from Modern House & Building Movers who explained the process for raising a structure.  As of the end of February, there are 26 homes listed for sale in Venetian Isles of which there are contracts on six of them.  Three homes have sold so far in 2025.

We understand that many of you are still working through the process of the “repair, renovation, or re-build” of your homes following last year’s hurricanes.  The Architectural Review Committee (“ARC”) is ready to assist you with timely review and approval of your plans or suggesting changes to make sure they are compliant with current Deed Restrictions.  Please contact any of the ARC members if you have a question regarding your projects after reviewing the materials posted on our website at http://www.ourvi.org/architectural-review.html 

We’ve gotten a number of suggestions from residents about community activities for this Spring, but the Board has decided to wait to resume events until Fall, with our signature “Oktoberfest”,in order to allow for more residents to move back into their homes and complete repairs.  We will also reschedule the New Resident Reception which was cancelled in 2024.

Thanks to the 230 property owners who have paid their $200 annual VIHA Dues as of February.  As a reminder, we did not increase the annual dues in 2025 as property owners are still recovering from the impact of the hurricanes.  The 2025 VI Directory has been printed and thos eowners who have paid their dues will be receiving your copy shortly.  We have a number of new directory advertisers this year so please try and patronize these companies, many of whom are run byVI residents, and thank them for supporting the VIHA.  I’ll feature one, or a number, of these advertisers with each President’s Letter that I send out for 2025.

Also, if you are on social media, I’d encourage you to “like” the “Venetian Isles of St. Petersburg, FL” page on Facebook.  This page is supported by VI residents Jeff and Claire Copeland.

Spring is nearly upon us and we’ll all look forward to the favorable weather that brings. Remember that hurricane season officially starts on June 1, so don’t wait till the last minute to begin making your 2025 storm preparations!!!

Lastly, as our community continues its recovery, don’t forget to show your neighbors a little “kindness,” that can go a long way!!!
​
Sincerely,
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President
​[email protected]

Dear Friends,
This Holiday Season will be like no other that we have ever had in Venetian Isles.  So many of our neighbors are still unable to live in their homes and are making the really difficult decisions of repair, raise or re-build new.  As I discussed in the November President’s Letter, the VIHA Board is trying to make changes to facilitate the “three R’s” that many in VI are faced with.
The Architectural Review Committee (“ARC”) is ready to assist you with timely review and approval of your plans or suggesting changes to make sure they are compliant with current Deed Restrictions.  Please contact any of the ARC members if you have a question regarding your repair or renovation projects after reviewing the materials posted on our website at http://www.ourvi.org/architectural-review.html
The VIHA Annual Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at Lutheran Church of the Cross.  A “social” starts at 6:30pm with the actual meeting starting at 7:00pm. A Zoom option will be available for those who cannot attend in person.  The link will be sent out in advance of the meeting.  The agenda will include the following topics:

• Election of VIHA Board Members for 2025;
  Discussion of proposed additional Deed Restrictions (“DR”) and revisions to certain current DRs, which may include:
  
• o  DR 3 - revising the placement of buildings or structures on cul-de-sac lots if approved by the City;
  

o  DR 8 - approval of non-corrosive metal roofing materials;
o  DR 10 – clarification that garages are required, need to been closed and must be at least 400 sq. ft.;
o  DR 42 - revising the required navigable width of waterways from 80’ to 50’ facilitating the placement of docks within far North and South ends of the interior canals;
o  DR 50 - Allow voting on future VIHA matters via “electronic” means:

•  A presentation by Modern Movers (www.modernmovers.com) on the process and considerations for raising an existing home;
  

• Presentations by invited guests.
  

We strongly encourage you to attend the Annual Meeting.  We need your input, we need your ideas, and we need your support of the DR revisions when ballots are distributed to property owners, especially since many of the proposed changes will help your neighbors who need to repair or rebuild as a result of the hurricanes.  Remember, we need 66.7%approval on any DR addition/amendment, so your vote is crucial.
Also, if you are on social media, I’d encourage you to “like” the “Venetian Isles of St. Petersburg, FL” page on Facebook.  This page is supported by VI residents Jeff and Claire Copeland.
As I mentioned last month, the traditional seawall candle lighting on December 24 starting at 5:30pm will be limited to Grand Canal Boulevard.
I hope everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the holiday season despite some of the challenges many of us are still facing as we rebuild.  I wish you all a you all a happy, healthy 2025!
Sincerely,
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President
[email protected]

November 22, 2024

Dear Friends,
On November 19, the VIHA Board convened to discuss the steps necessary to help our community recover from the flooding and devastation caused by two recent hurricanes.  While the Board doesn’t have all the answers, we recognize that rebuilding will take time given that so many homes in our neighborhood suffered significant damage.  Our focus is on serving as a resource and facilitating a smoother rebuilding process. This includes:
1. Expediting building and renovation approvals through the Architectural Review Committee.
2. Considering amendments to certain Deed Restrictions (DRs) to accommodate updated building techniques requested by property owners who are rebuilding and repairing their homes.

Highlights from the November 19 Board Meeting:

Annual Meeting Date: The VIHA Annual Meeting is scheduled for January22, 2025.  Board Elections will take place at this meeting. If you are interested in joining the Board, please contact me or another Board member for more information about responsibilities and the nomination process. Our new City Councilman, Mike Harting, has been invited to the meeting to introduce himself to the community.

Home Elevation Presentation: Modern Movers (www.modernmovers.com), specialists in home elevation, gave a brief presentation. Board member Mark Scribano is currently working with them to raise his own house. Representatives will attend the VIHA Annual Meeting in January to share insights with the community.

Aluminum Roofing Materials: A group of residents requested the Board consider amending the DRs to allow aluminum roofing, an alternative to the current metal “barrel tile” products currently permitted.

DR Amendments Under Consideration:
• Allowing aluminum roofing materials.
• Implementing electronic balloting for DR revisions and Board elections.
• Revisiting the previously defeated DR amendment to lower the approval threshold for new or amended DRs to 60%.
• Other proposed amendments will be presented at the Annual Meeting.

Christmas Eve Seawall Candles: This year, candle lighting will be limited to the Grand Canal Boulevard. Unfortunately, the Hospitality Committee will not be selling candles and bags.

Annual Dues: Despite increased operating expenses related to storm damage and insurance, annual dues will remain at $200 per property for2025.

Debris Removal Updates from the City:
• Homeowners must separate debris into appropriate piles without using plastic trash bags (Vegetative Debris, Fencing Material, Electronics, Appliances and building materials /furniture). It will take multiple sweeps for the City to collect everything, however, they are aiming to complete the removal by early January to qualify for FEMA reimbursement.
• Debris that fits into a regular trash can will be collected on normal pick-up days.
• The City has not yet confirmed how they will handle large numbers of trash bags left at the curb; regular collection will not pick up the bags unless they are placed in a trash can.

Drain Fly Infestation: Many homes areexperiencing an issue with persistent “drain flies,” which are likely comingfrom the sewer system. Our exterminator recommends closing drains when not inuse. If anyone has additional solutions, please share them with me and I will communicate them out.
We strongly encourage you to attend the Annual Meeting on January 22, 2025, at Lutheran Church of the Cross. A Zoom option will be available for those who cannot attend in person.  We need your input, we need your ideas and we need your support of the DR revisions when those get rolled out, especially since they may help your neighbors who need to rebuild.  Remember, we need 66.7% approval on any DR addition/amendment so your vote is crucial.
Thank you for your support. Together, we will navigate this recovery process.


Sincerely,
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President
[email protected]

Dear Friends:
On October 24 we had a General Meeting for residents of VI at Lutheran Church of the Cross(“LCC”).  This meeting was focused on providing information and answering resident questions about the damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton and what an uncertain future might hold.  About 80 people attended the meeting in person and 35 attended via Zoom. Needless to say, we were very pleased with the turnout.
A summary of comments made by the invited guests follows.
Ed Montanari – City Councilman

• Ed understands the pain of VI residents as his home was flooded with 24” of water as well.
  
• Of the 11,000 homes in Ed’s district, approximately 7,000were flooded.
  
• See the County Property Appraiser website at https://www.pcpao.gov/ for info/questions about the impact on property taxes as a result of the storms.
  
• Clean up of storm related damage is going to cost the City between $75 - $100 million.  Attention is focused on a clean-up within 90 days, in order for the costs to be 100% reimbursed by FEMA.
  
• Much discussion on the process for picking up debris on the streets of VI but no definitive timeline. Monitor the City website for the most current information: https://www.stpete.org/residents/public_safety/hurricane_helene_recovery_assistance.php
  
• FEMA WILL NOT pick up storm debris that is in trash bags.  Please remove the contents from trash bags or bring these bags to the county collection center.
  
• A video of Ed’s 38 minute discussion/Q & A session can be accessed here: http://www.ourvi.org/latest-news
  

Jim Fuchs - St. Petersburg Police Department

• The Police Department is increasing patrol activity in the areas of the City hardest hit by the storms. One VI resident commented that he called the non-emergency # to report suspicious activity and a patrol car arrived before he was off the phone with the dispatcher.  HERE is a link with how to submit an online police report and other useful information.
  
• There will be lots of construction activity in VI over the upcoming months. Please ask your contractors to park only on the east side of the street (even house #’s) to allow for emergency vehicle access.  Please feel free to print the  VI Parking Placard and place it on any vehicles that are not in compliance with City Code and VI DR’s. It can be downloaded at http://www.ourvi.org/parking-placard
  
• Golf carts must to have the appropriate equipment, be registered/insured and operated by a licensed driver when on City streets.  
  

Jack Adams – Reuben Clarson Consulting
([email protected] or 727-895-4717)

• Many seawalls in VI are approaching the end of their useful life of approximately 50 years.
  
• The combination of a negative tidal surge and heavy rainfall caused many seawalls to fail or create depressions behind the seawall that threaten the pool or home foundation.
  
• Rip rap” is an option for seawall reinforcement but needs to be approved through the normal City and County channels.
  
• Seawall failures must be evaluated for what may be an individual repair solution. Contact Jack directly and he will be happy to advise.
  
  Harbor Insurance and Brightway Insurance (VI resident Insurance Brokers)
  
• A useful tool is the Flood Protection Workshop - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qme0uhpyj4Y.  It is an informative video of steps you can take to help keep flood waters out of your house.
  
• The concept of residents retaining an independent insurance adjuster to assist with their claims was discussed.  There are pluses and minuses to this strategy which must be fully evaluated by anyone who is considering this alternative.
  
• Please contact [email protected] or Sharon at [email protected] or [email protected] with any questions.
  

Mark Scribano – VIHA Board Member and long-time VI resident

• Is in the process of “elevating” his home on Kansas North, unfortunately the actual process had not commenced prior to the storms.
  
• Mark will coordinate information pertaining to the process of elevating a property and will communicate that out regularly.
  
• If you have any questions or further information to provide contact Mark at – [email protected].
  

As a reminder, all exterior projects including but not limited to replacement of docks, boat lifts and roofing need to be approved by the Architectural Review Committee(“ARC”).  Info on the ARC can be accessed from the VI website at http://www.ourvi.org/architectural-review.html.  Metal roof tiles are allowed under current Deed Restrictions so long as they are fashioned as barrel or flat tile to be consistent with other roofs.  Any other forms of metal roofing would require a Deed Restriction change and be approved by 66.67% of property owners in VI.  This process could take up to 12 months to complete with no guarantee of passage.
We are planning the next resident meeting for January 23, 2025 at LCC and will provide updates on all storm related topics as well as hold elections for the 2025 VIHA Board.  Please consider serving on the Board or one of the numerous committees to assist in the efforts to help our neighborhood recover.  Nomination forms can be found at www.ourvi.org.
Finally, Brooke Palmer is coordinating a Halloween Party to allow kids to “trick or treat” on Carolina Circle.  Please see the attached and feel free to donate candy or other related Halloween items to make this event a great success.  Please scroll down for more information.


Thank you for your attention and let’s get through this together.
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President
[email protected]

Dear VI Property Owner:
While we have faced storms in VI before, we have never before experienced flooding caused by an unprecedented level of storm surge of last Thursday night.  Those whose homes were fortunate not to have been flooded still feel the pain of our neighbors who experienced property damage. Together, we will undertake the overwhelming task of repairing and rebuilding our homes, businesses and our community.
We will all be looking for answers and solutions over the upcoming months in an attempt to put our lives back together.  Communities have rebuilt themselves stronger in the past after tragic events and I know we can do so as well in response to Helene.  Let’s do everything we can to assist those in VI whose losses were greater than our own.  I’m struggling to find ways that the VIHA can provide support to the community in the face of such an unexpected and unprecedented storm.  I’m happy to take any suggestions from VI residents as to how we can help the community recover.  So far, what we have come up with is:
October 12 – We are postponing Oktoberfest so I’d suggest we have a “Community Clean Up Day.”  We can focus volunteer efforts on the VI streets and canals as well as the properties of those who do not have the resources or “muscle” to do so themselves.  Obviously, volunteers will be the key to making this effort a success. 
October 24 –The focus of the VIHA General Meeting will now be on insurance issues and questions residents may have about filing claims and the process of receiving insurance proceeds.  Neighborhood insurance experts will be on hand to answer your questions and provide support.
Finally, please disregard the deadlines in the Deed Restriction violation letters that were mailed on September 23. Obviously, repairing our homes, not remedying DR violations is the focus now.  As a reminder, all outdoor construction projects, including patios, pools, docks, seawalls and roofs require approval from the Architectural Review Committee (“ARC”). Please go to the VIHA website at http://www.ourvi.org/architectural-review.html for details on the approval process and documentation requirements.  Please email [email protected]  if you have any questions.
Other communities have recovered and so will we, let’s be “VI Strong!!!!”
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President
[email protected]