September 15 POA press release

Jerry Kosoglow the interim general manager of the POA read the following statement at the September 15 POA board meeting.
"In light of the very recent announcements regarding the Hot Springs Village Property Owners Association (POA) staff, including Dave Johnston’s resignation, and Wayne Copeland’s retirement, it is important to avoid speculation and let everyone know the facts about some further changes occurring within the POA Staff. The POA is actively pursuing Dave’s and Wayne’s replacements using national and statewide recruiting agencies like the International City Manager’s Association, the Community Managers’ Association International, the Association for Financial Professionals, CPA Job Finder, and others.
David Whitlow, Public Works Director has announced his retirement, effective February 4, 2011, which is his 28th anniversary with the POA. He states in his retirement letter to me: "I look back on the growth and evolution of HSV with pride and great respect for those who have shared the journey. I include in this group the many hardworking employees of the Public Works Department as well as the administration and other divisions, volunteer committee members, Cooper Communities, contractors, and of course all the board members through the years who have made the community what it is today."The search for David’s replacement will commence immediately in order to provide a maximum amount of time for the successful candidate to overlap with David, and draw on his significant experience with all the people and systems that are the employees and infrastructure of the Village. His knowledge and experience will be missed greatly, but his major legacy will be the excellent people he has developed and managed over his 28 years. I know I speak for all, that we admire and respect his dedicated service to all the Property Owners.
Additionally, many know that Sharon Anderson, Human Resources Manager for the last 19 years has previously announced her retirement effective January 7, 2011. She has worked steadfastly behind the scenes recruiting, training, and caring for the pay, benefits, and other needs of hundreds of POA employees during her tenure. I have only worked with Sharon for a short period, but her professionalism, knowledge, and frankness have aided me greatly in my understanding of the POA staff and in the search for replacements for key personnel mentioned earlier. She has a small staff, but has lead them in a manner which will ensure continuity through these changing times.We will address replacing Sharon in a timely manner, again allowing for enough overlap to ensure a smooth, seamless transition.
While these many changes at the top of the organization might seem daunting, the successful transitions will be a result of the many other employees who really keep the POA running effectively. I count on their support for me, and for the other new staff members who will be selected over the next several months."