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Dear Residents,
I would like to begin by sincerely apologizing for the recent inconsistencies many of you have experienced with service and food quality. This past week was particularly challenging as we faced a higher than normal employee call-outs due to illness. While this was unexpected, we recognize that our members felt the impact, and for that, I am truly sorry.
I am also pleased to share that we now have a new management team in place at both Cottonwood and Palo Verde. This team brings strong operational experience and a renewed focus on consistency, quality, and hospitality. Their priority is to stabilize staffing, strengthen training, and deliver a more reliable food and beverage experience across both locations. We are confident these changes will result in noticeable improvements moving forward.
Update on the Half Carafe of Wine
Several members have asked why the half carafe option was recently removed from the menu, and I would like to provide transparency.
As part of our responsibility to the association, we operate within an approved annual budget that guides pricing and cost controls.
Here is a simplified example using our house wine:
- 9 oz glass of house wine
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Cost to the association: $1.65
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Cost of goods: 27%
- This falls within healthy and sustainable budget guidelines.
- Half carafe (3 x 9 oz glasses)
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Cost to the association: $4.86
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Cost of goods: 54%
At this level, more than half of the selling price goes directly to product cost alone. This does not align with our budget parameters and does not represent a good business model.
Selling wine at this price ultimately requires the association to absorb the loss, meaning other members subsidize the discount. For these reasons, continuing to offer the half carafe was not financially responsible or fair to the broader community.
Regarding a Recent Employee Termination
I am aware of the discussion surrounding the recent discharge of a long-term employee. While I cannot share specific personnel details, I want to address this matter directly.
Please be assured that decisions of this nature are never taken lightly. Any such action is based on verified facts and documented information. My responsibility is to protect our liquor licenses, our staff, and the association from potential risk and liability, and to ensure we operate in full compliance with all regulations.
Open Door to Our Community
Your feedback is important - If you have questions, concerns, or would like to discuss any of these topics further, I would be more than happy to meet with you. My goal is to continue improving transparency, trust, and the overall experience for everyone in our community.
Thank you for your patience, your understanding, and your continued support as we work to strengthen our food and beverage operations.
Andy Andrews, PCAM
General Manager
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