Reminder: Critical OBSC1 Bylaws Vote – Saturday, Oct. 31 at 9:00 AM

OBSC1 Members:

As previously announced, on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 9:00 AM, OBSC1 members will be asked to vote on two important amendments to our Association Bylaws:

  • Proposal 1: Amendments pertaining to building height and related construction standards. FAQs included for your review. 

  • Proposal 2: Amendments to accommodate remote meeting attendance and remote voting.

Every eligible owner’s participation is important. Whether you support or oppose the proposals, we encourage you to review the materials, ask questions, and cast an informed vote that morning.

We will gather to discuss the proposals and answer any questions. The ballot box will be open beginning at 9:00 AM and will remain open until the meeting adjourns.

Meeting Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM (Ballot box opens at 9:00 AM and remains open until adjournment)
Location: Union Church of Lavallette, 25 Philadelphia Ave, Lavallette, NJ 08735

Why this Vote Matters

OBSC1 is a unique community. Together, our members share common interests in the Association’s roads, beaches, marina, and community facilities. Our governing documents help establish clear, understandable, and consistent standards for maintaining our community, reviewing construction, and protecting owners’ shared property values.

The October 31 vote is significant because the proposed amendments directly address:

Proposal 1: Building Height & Construction Standards

  • How owners may elevate, rebuild, or modify their homes;

  • The maximum permitted building height and precisely how that height is measured;

  • The treatment of attic storage and usable space below elevated homes; and

  • The Association’s ability to administer and enforce building requirements consistently and equitably.

Proposal 2: Remote Attendance & Voting

  • Authorizing amendments to our Bylaws to allow remote meeting attendance and remote voting for members at future meetings.

Background & Context


Proposal 1

Many of OBSC1’s governing provisions were adopted years ago, with certain building requirements revised following Superstorm Sandy in October 2012. Since that time, flood-elevation requirements, construction practices, and the needs of homeowners have continued to evolve.

Recent disputes have also raised questions regarding the interpretation and enforcement of OBSC1’s existing height and building restrictions. Some owners have asked whether their homes comply with current requirements, while others are seeking approval for upcoming construction or elevation projects. Allegations concerning particular homes have not necessarily been adjudicated or established as fact.

The Board believes the membership should now decide whether the proposed standards provide an appropriate, workable path forward. The Rules Committee’s report and proposed amendments should be reviewed carefully prior to casting your vote.

Proposal 2
This amendment will allow members to attend meetings and cast votes remotely and securely. Recent weather-related cancellations underscored the need for flexibility. Modernizing our rules to permit remote participation accommodates busy family schedules, broadens voter turnout, and ensures community business can move forward reliably. The amendment specifies that at least 50% of meetings will continue to be held in person.

Voting Threshold: How the Vote Works 

The proposed changes must be formally considered by the membership through our established Bylaw-amendment process:

  • Two-Thirds Requirement: Adoption requires approval by two-thirds (2/3) of the ballots cast by eligible members at the properly noticed meeting.

  • Why Every Vote Counts: This does not mean that two-thirds of all 321 owners must vote in favor. However, it does mean that each ballot cast can meaningfully affect the outcome. A low turnout leaves an important community decision to a very limited number of members.

The Board's Recommendations

After carefully considering the Rules Committee’s proposal—which was previously provided to all members and remains available for review in the "Homeowners Section" of the OBSC1 website—the Board recommends a YES vote on both Proposal 1 and Proposal 2.

(Note: Owners should review the precise language of the proposed amendments mailed and emailed to you to understand exactly which existing homes, meetings, approvals, and future projects would be covered. If there is any discrepancy between this summary and the formal amendment text, the language of the proposed amendment controls.)

Review the FAQs & Ask Questions

  • Frequently Asked Questions: Please review the FAQ document for further clarification and detailed answers.

  • Questions: If you have additional questions ahead of Saturday's meeting, please email the Board at obsurfclub1@gmail.com.

We look forward to your active participation on Saturday morning.


Sincerely,
OBSC1 Board of Trustees