Working together to lower costs, protect reserves

TREASURER'S COLUMN

by Sandy Geffner

GRF Treasurer

Hello, neighbors. My name is Sandy Geffner, and I’m honored to serve as your new GRF treasurer. I plan to write periodic articles to help demystify GRF finances and share my philosophy on how we manage your money.

GRF operates using funds primarily provided by members, and I believe you deserve clear, simple explanations of where those funds come from and how they’re spent. My goal is transparency and fiscal responsibility—without unnecessary complexity.

Leisure World is not a country club or assisted living facility; we are an independent-living, active adult community. While we are

TREASURER, page 4 fortunate in many ways, some members do struggle with monthly expenses. That’s why I believe we must work to keep the monthly GRF assessment as low as possible, while still protecting our reserves, repairing aging infrastructure, and preserving the amenities we all enjoy.

If you or someone you know is having financial difficulty, please contact Robann Arshat, Member Resources Liaison, at 562-431-6586, ext. 2317. She may be able to connect you with helpful resources. Any inquiries received are treated confidentially.

When it comes to managing the budget, I often say I think like an “$80,000 man.” That’s because every $80,000 in either cost savings or increased revenue equates to roughly a $1 reduction in the monthly assessment. Small wins can add up—and enough of them can make a real difference.

In discussions with our new GRF President, Linda Herman, I understand she may propose forming two subcommittees—one to look at increasing revenue and one to find ways to reduce expenses. If you have ideas to contribute, please email me at sgeffner@ lwsb.com. Be sure to include your contact information so we can follow up.

Let’s work together to protect our finances and support one another. Every idea helps.