MVF Board approves security cameras and access control systems at community centers

In keeping with several strategic priorities included in the 2025 Montgomery Village Foundation (MVF) Budget, the MVF Board approved the expansion of the security camera system and introduction of access control systems at key locations of several community centers during its May 22 meeting.

Additional cameras were approved for installation at North Creek and Whetstone community centers, to monitor entrances/exits and high-volume staff interaction zones, such as the front desks in the facilities. The contract was awarded to The Dresner Group, at a cost of $35,890. The Board also approved a contract to The Dresner Group for the purchase and installation of the access control system for North Creek, Whetstone and Lake Marion community centers in the amount of $31,754.08. Both systems will integrate with the existing camera system, which is serviced by The Dresner Group, MVF’s IT contractor.

Regarding the cameras, Director of Recreation and Parks Duncan Mullis reported that the new installation follows the Board’s April 2024 approval and subsequent installation of cloud-based security cameras at the MVF Office and Lake Marion Community Center. Since the system’s implementation, he said staff have reported high satisfaction with its performance, citing strong video clarity, ease of installation, responsive customer service and an intuitive online interface.

Concerning the access control system, Mullis said that this installation is in alignment with the Recreation and Parks Strategic Plan. It is a cloud-based access control system that will replace traditional key access with secure, keyless entry using multi-technology readers compatible with access cards, key fobs and mobile applications. He said that among the benefits are improved facility security and accountability; remote administration and real-time monitoring; customizable access levels for staff, instructors, seasonal personnel and visitors; and easier access for facility users and risk mitigation.

Other Agenda Items

After an interview process held during the open meeting, the Board voted by secret ballot with a tally of 5 to 2 of members present to select John Kozo for appointment to the MVF Board. The appointment was to fill a vacancy, after the announcement of Pam Bort’s resignation last month.

The Board approved the proposed SMS Texting System Communications Operations Policy. Director of Communications Ruth Stadius reported that MVF will reinstate a SMS (Short Message Service) texting system as another vehicle to communicate more urgent or time-sensitive messages to residents this summer. Included in this system, which will be an opt-in option for residents through their account on www.montgomeryvillage.com, will be the ability for homes corporations and condominium associations to communicate specifically with their residents as well.

The Board also approved MVF’s purchase of 10 Dell computers and two docking stations for staff at a cost of $17,731.49 from Reserves from The Dresner Group, and authorization for an additional 10% for any further unforeseen circumstances, not to exceed $19,504.64. This new equipment replaces equipment that is 5 years old and part of MVF’s annual scheduled replacement process.

President’s Remarks

President Ayres congratulated the three high school seniors, two from Watkins Milll High School and one from Gaithersburg High School, who were awarded scholarships from the Montgomery Village community through the MVF Scholarship Program. She thanked all of the community members who donated to the scholarship fund.

EVP Report

EVP Mike Conroy reported that 2025 was another successful year for the MVF Scholarship Fund, which raised $2,000 – $1,000 for Watkins Mill High School and $1,000 for Gaithersburg High School. The scholarship committee selected two seniors from Watkins Mill High School to receive $500 each and one senior from Gaithersburg High School to receive a $1,000 scholarship, through the gracious donations received from Village residents.

Conroy also noted that pool season officially began on Saturday, May 24, with Hurley Park Pool opening on Wednesday, June 18. He said staff is trained and ready for another successful season. Conroy also reminded the Board that Stedwick Pool will close in August to begin the renovation process.

Treasurer’s Report

CFO Daniel Salazar presented the Treasurer’s Report for the year-to-date (YTD) and month ending April 30, 2025, reporting that overall, all MVF funds were favorable to the budget. Net Income was reported favorable by about $318,000, predominantly due to Revenues from Camps and Classes ($104,000), Grant Revenues ($153,000) and Miscellaneous Revenues ($35,000), as well as lower Operating Costs by about $108,000.

Salazar noted Total Revenues were $3,693,000, which is 4.7% higher than the budget and 0.3% lower than actual Revenues for 2024. Total Operating Expenses were $2,966,723, which is 4.9% under budget and 9.7% higher than in the same period last year. He said Capital Contribution Fees received through April were $74,520 versus $125,833 budgeted for 2025.

He said the Balance Sheet continues to reflect MVF’s strong financial position with $14.6 million of its $32 million assets held in Cash and Investments. MVF continues to hold close to $3.58 million in Undesignated Reserves. Assessment Receivables has seen an increase of 5.2% compared to the previous year, and the Delinquency Rate for January was reported at 18.8% (1,593 units). MVF’s current Delinquency Rate is 0.2% higher than the 10-year average for the month of April (18.5%). Last year’s Delinquency Rate was slightly lower at 18.3% (1,549 units).

Next Meeting

The next MVF Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 26 via Zoom. Residents are invited to attend; full meeting details, the meeting packet and/or participation instructions will be posted online at www.montgomeryvillage.com the week before the meeting.