MESSAGE REGARDING THE PATIO AND CLUBHOUSE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

A Message from the Board of Directors

One generally-accepted theme to have emerged over the last several years was the need to address the patio ‘problem’.   As stated countless times before, the 2014 Club Survey highlighted the importance of Member Dining venues.  When one also considers the fact that Dining (96%) edged out Golf (93%) as the “Most Important Activity” at Stanwich, and that the Patio is far and away the most popular dining destination, it stands to reason that we should look to protect our crown jewel.

 Let’s provide some historical context - first official mention of this particular project was made in October 2015.  In a communication dated May 20, 2016 plan specifics and five full-color renderings were sent to the membership  (the renderings have also been on clubhouse display throughout the summer months).  A timeline of architect -construction documentation, general contractor bidding, and proposed start dates was also disclosed.  Two Information Sessions, with over 150 in attendance, were also conducted.  Finally, a Frequently Asked Question piece was distributed last week.  We feel as though the process has been transparent, and that it generated constructive input from the constituencies that emerged. 

The Board views its primary role as one of Steward – tasked with best positioning the Club for its future growth and vitality.  Many of your fellow members, working in conjunction with professional architects, designers and private-club consultants, have volunteered hundreds of hours of their personal time in order to ensure a ‘best in class’ outdoor product.  With 400-plus member families, we are not so naïve to think that we could come up with a solution that had universal appeal.  That would be unrealistic. 

At a special meeting of the Board, held September 10^th, the various views of the members were reviewed and fully discussed prior to a Board vote.   The Board then proceeded to vote overwhelmingly in support of the Proposed Patio Project plans as originally laid out.  To those with differing points of view, we hope that all will respect the integrity of the Board’s recommendation.

Ultimately, it was the perception of the Board that the majority of membership feedback centered on the desire for more, and better outdoor space.  Given the fact that 64% of the Club’s total meals served in 2015 were served over a four-month stretch on our tired Patio, we feel compelled to offer our support for an enhanced venue which has historically demonstrated its appeal as the centerpiece for membership congregational space.

We urge all members to cast a vote.  This is the only objective way to make your opinion count.  We would ask that once the votes are tabulated, all members respect the outcome and continue to support the club we all hold dear.

Regards,
The Stanwich Club Board of Directors