He also offered a compromise that didn't involve his property.
He would contribute toward a properly organized swimming program at a licensed community recreation facility.
Linda rejected the suggestion.
In her reply, she described the offer as an attempt to avoid his obligations to the neighborhood.
Devon stared at the message.
For the first time, he realized she wasn't looking for a compromise.
She wanted him to accept her authority.
And his refusal had become personal.
The woman who first questioned Linda's handling of the swimming-pool proposal was Sandra Whitfield, the HOA treasurer.
Sandra was sixty-one, with short dark hair beginning to turn gray, a calm manner, and more than thirty years of experience in corporate accounting. She had served on the Brookstone Meadows board for four years and was known for examining financial documents with the same patience other people reserved for crossword puzzles.
She wasn't particularly interested in neighborhood politics.
She wanted the assessments collected accurately, the bills paid on time, and the association's money spent according to its governing documents.
When Linda proposed creating a community swimming program at Devon's house, Sandra asked a straightforward question.
"Has the homeowner signed an agreement?"
Linda smiled.
"We're working through the details."
Sandra looked toward the meeting agenda.
"Then why is the program listed as an upcoming amenity?"
The president shifted in her chair.
"Because we need to plan ahead."
Sandra nodded.
"Planning is fine. But we can't advertise access to property we don't have permission to use."
Several directors agreed.
Linda looked irritated.
For a moment, she seemed ready to argue.
Then she changed the subject to landscaping improvements.
Sandra returned to her financial report.
But she made a note.
The association was discussing an amenity that didn't belong to it.
And Linda appeared determined to proceed regardless.
The next clue arrived in the form of an invoice.
Sandra was reviewing monthly expenses when she noticed a payment to a company called Clearwater Community Services.
The amount was $8,750.
The description read: Aquatic facility preparation and preliminary safety consultation.
She frowned.
Brookstone Meadows didn't own an aquatic facility.
Its common amenities consisted of the clubhouse, playground, landscaped entrance, and several walking paths.
Sandra searched the board minutes.
There was no authorization for a significant pool-related consulting expense.
She contacted the management company.
The representative explained that Linda had classified the payment as preparation for an upcoming recreation initiative.
Sandra asked which property was involved.
The answer made her uneasy.
Devon Carter's swimming pool.
She immediately requested the supporting contract.