Update on 2010 Renovation Project

As all owners saw in the Fall 2008 printed newsletter the planning process for the next renovation is well underway. We now have two model units that cover all the possible improvements we hope to address.

As cannot be stated too many times, the Cypress Pointe Association Board of Directors is committed to living within our available funding for renovations.  The realities of that budget mean we cannot execute the project as it was presented in the second model.  The focus for this round of improvements is primarily on the areas not done in the 2004 work. That includes but is not limited to the built in cabinets throughout the units, the floor tiles, counter tops and plumbing fixtures.  After that the long awaited doors for the master bath areas, standardization of the A/B side connecting door and the door conversion to a window in the second bedroom are items that must be included.  The cost of all that long term, capital construction work may nearly deplete the money available for the 2010 round.  When we add in new carpets, a new couch (6-7 years is the life of even the best timeshare sofa beds) and a general refresh of the soft goods the 2010 budget is largely spent.

Fortunately those major changes will already give us a greatly improved unit for 2010 and beyond. Depending on how pricing can be negotiated we will also include as many other upgrades as possible while staying at or below the budget number.  We also will utilize the lower tax collection required in 2009 as well as some of the 2007 surplus to budget funds to help build the reserve fund for renovation. 

Prior to any final decisions we will have one or both of the two model units altered to reflect exactly what the proposed final design would look like. This is a critical step in the process.  As we learned in the less than satisfactory 2000 renovation work you couldn't judge the final result from drawings or fabric samples.  By having at least one unit outfitted exactly as proposed we help assure that the other 167 units will have the look and quality we all expect at our resort.

This is an ongoing process that takes coordination and planning from many groups.  As it proceeds we will continue to update the CPR website, these electronic newsletters and the printed newsletter to keep all owners informed. Comments or suggestions always welcomed at cp1@cypresspointe.net  

The next review of potential unit renovation options will occur at the January 17, 2009 Board meeting and will naturally be a major topic at the Annual Owners meeting on March 21, 2009 at the resort.

RCI Silver Crown Awarded for 2009

Again for the 2009 use year RCI has awarded Cypress Pointe Resort a Silver Crown status. This ranking is based on ratings returned by RCI guests from September 2007 to August 2008.  As occurred in 2008 we missed the highest possible award, Gold Crown, by just one tenth of one percentage point in unit maintenance.  As always our on site management and the Board of Directors aim for that highest ranking without unnecessary spending chasing an award level could bring.  We believe that by improving the resort each year within our budget to satisfy our owners we will also raise the RCI scores that extra, small amount needed. While we wanted that highest score for 2009 we are very proud to see our continued results be at Silver Crown level, a result many nice resorts in Orlando and other areas also strive for yet come up short. 

2009 Cypress Pointe Resort Projects

Although the big project looming is the unit renovation that doesn't mean other things aren't planned.  While 2009 looks to be less active than the past few years, there is work planned to further enhance the vacation experience at Cypress Pointe Resort.

Perhaps the most noticeable will be the total renovation of the landscaping throughout the resort. The new design is by the same landscape architect that did the recent work around the RALPH laundry/maintenance/housekeeping building in 2007 and the beautiful new recreation/picnic area in 2008.

Aerial view of new Recreation/Picnic area at Cypress Pointe Resort, Orlando, FL

The Board approved his design for the remainder of the resort in late 2008, bids were sent out and a contract for the work awarded in December 2008. In a pleasant surprise the bids came in at under half of the estimated cost meaning the whole project can be done with the money budgeted for 2009. Originally the plan was to spread the work over 2 years as money was available.  It is anticipated the project will start in February 2009 and take 8-12 weeks. 

Also in early 2009 the Gift Shop will be expanded and become much more visible from the Lobby.  At the same time we hope to have the Game Room renovation under way with additional new games and possibly a prize redemption area to increase interest and sales. 

The pool bath house is also due for a total refurbishment and the Volcano will get a new, darker color soon.  The exterior doors to the Game Room will be replaced and the remainder of the Clubhouse will get insulated to reduce energy consumption (parts were done during the construction of Cafe Pointe®). 

The parking lot paving that wasn't completed in 2008 will be done in early 2009 although the money was budgeted in 2008. The new gas grills in the picnic area will also be paid by 2008 funds. 

So even in a "slow" year for renovation and upgrades Cypress Pointe Resort will continue to improve both inside and out. 

Annual Meeting

On March 21, 2009 at 9AM the Annual Owners meeting will be held at the Clubhouse, 2nd Floor Sales Room.  This important annual meeting will include presentations from our Independent Auditor, the BOD, VRI, Resort Management and much more. Topics are sure to include the 2010 Unit Renovation, financial status of the Association and more.  This year we also have a proposed change to the Association documents to bring them into compliance with recently enacted revisions to Florida law governing timeshares and condominiums. We need your vote to make the change. PLEASE remember to return your proxy/ballot and let your voice be heard. We also welcome all owners who can attend to come to the this always informational annual get together. 

Miss the Fall 2008 Newsletter hard copy? See it online:

http://cypresspointe.net/OBJECTS/Cypress_Pointe1108.pdf