Andy Whirl
Committed to a positive path forward for Fairfield Glade.
My Background
I think Fairfield Glade is a wonderful place to live.
I first fell in love with Fairfield Glade on a golf trip in 1990.
After a career in finance and banking, my wife and I started two successful businesses—one in Indiana (Go Hoosiers!) and one in Florida. In 2020, we sold the Florida business and moved here to Fairfield Glade.
In 2021, I worked as a starter at Stonehenge Golf Course. It was a nice way to meet my neighbors and brag about our community to golfers from all over the country. At the end of the year awards luncheon, I was presented with the “Community Promoter of the Year" award.
I enjoy playing golf, going to concerts at The Grove, taking evening strolls on the cart paths at Druid Hills, and spending time with our two grandchildren who live in the area.
My Experience & Qualifications
My prior leadership experience at a similar community is a unique advantage.
For eight years, I was a member of the Master Association Board of Directors at our community in Florida. I served as board president for three of those years.
Some of our accomplishments included negotiating a contract with Comcast to provide internet and cable to all the residents, selecting a new property management company, and providing community upgrades such as new lights, street signs, and mailboxes. We also instituted a new security data center and hired a new security company.
This unique experience provides a solid foundation for my understanding of what works and doesn’t work on a community Board.
For the past four years, I’ve worked part-time as the Front desk person at Fairfield Homes and Glade Realty. I have the unique experience to meet and greet people who walk through the door looking to relocate. It allows me to visit with people from all over the country. The discussions of the pros and cons of Fairfield Glade is a unique insight that most people don’t get to experience.
My Commitment to Fairfield Glade
I am committed to moving forward with openness, honesty, mutual respect, and common sense.
The recent atmosphere of social media negativity is putting a damper on what we know and love about living here.
My goal is to help answer concerns and create an atmosphere that will put the long-term interests of our community first. I believe we can move beyond division by treating one another with kindness, fairness, and mutual respect.
Even when we have different perspectives, we can listen to one another, communicate with integrity, and work together toward thoughtful, positive solutions.
Andy’s platform is based on a common-sense approach to serving Fairfield Glade.
-
Professional Board Meetings
Board meetings should be respectful and focused on serving the community. I will advocate for conducting meetings under Robert's Rules of Order to ensure fairness, orderly discussion, and efficient decision-making. Workshops should be learning sessions where board members gather facts. Board members have just one vote. Once a decision is made, the Board needs to move forward together.
-
Better Communication
I hope to improve communication between the Board and residents by providing timely updates, clear explanations of decisions, and board approved articles for publication.
-
Protect Fairfield Glade's Financial Future
Financial stability, when making decisions, should be a Board goal. I will urge that we carefully evaluate the long-term financial effects of the Wyndham transition before committing to additional major capital projects.
-
Staff and Operations
The Board's role is to establish policy, not manage day-to-day operations. I support having department heads provide regular reports at the Board meetings so members hear firsthand about successes, challenges, and priorities.
-
Governance and Accountability
Good governance requires clear boundaries. Executive Sessions should be limited to legal and personnel matters. Confidentiality agreements should clearly define what information is confidential and what belongs in the public domain, with legal guidance whenever questions arise.
-
Community Amenities
Our golf operation has already demonstrated that thoughtful adjustments can produce positive financial results despite changing conditions. Promoting the Preferred Dining Program is just one example of how the Food & Beverage deficit can be improved.
-
Experience and Teamwork
My years as a community board president, business owner, and finance professional have taught me that successful organizations thrive when people listen, respect differing opinions, and work together toward common goals. I will bring an open mind, common sense, integrity, and a commitment to making decisions that serve the best interests of the entire Fairfield Glade community.
-
Promote Fairfield Glade and Grow New Revenue
Fairfield Glade has outstanding venues that deserve greater visibility. I will encourage strategic marketing efforts that showcase our community. Conventions and pickleball tournaments, after the new complex is completed, could bring in additional visitors. Fairfield Glade would benefit financially, including local businesses.
-
Make Thoughtful Decisions
Good decisions begin with good information. I believe a Board member must carefully evaluate facts, financial data, committee recommendations, and professional expertise before making important decisions. My commitment is to listen first, ask questions, understand the issues, and then make informed decisions that are in the best long-term interest of the entire Fairfield Glade community.
“I served on the Stoneybrook (Estero, Florida) Master Association Board of Directors for 10 years. During that time, I met fellow Board member and neighbor, Andy Whirl. We served together for 8 years. When Andy was asked to run for Master Association Board President, I wholeheartedly endorsed his nomination and was honored to serve as his Vice President during his 3-year tenure as President.
Andy is personable, honest, and direct. He leads by example and exemplifies the principle that leaders are chosen to serve. Because of his leadership, routine maintenance services, as well as many community improvement projects, were completed on time and on budget. Our community today is still benefiting from the accomplishments of our Board during Andy's tenure.”
— Raoul Grossi