Hi neighbors,
We wanted to share an important change to how our board elections are run, and to invite your nominations for this year’s election. A copy of this notice is also going out by mail this week.
What’s changing – A new Maryland law (Senate Bill 758, effective October 1, 2025) requires HOA elections to be run by an independent party. That means sitting board members can no longer collect, open, or count ballots. The person running the election cannot be a candidate, cannot have a conflict of interest with any candidate, and cannot campaign for anyone on the ballot.
Nominate by November 14 – This year’s ballot will include President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. You may nominate yourself or a neighbor. Current board members who wish to continue serving will be listed on the ballot automatically, so you do not need to nominate them.
How to nominate – Send your nomination one of two ways:
- Email: gartelmillpresident@gmail.com
- Online: use our Contact Us page
Please include the nominee’s name, phone or email, and the position. If you’re nominating a neighbor, please check that they’re willing to serve.
Our election administrator – Tammy W., a Gartelmill homeowner, has volunteered to collect and count this year’s ballots. Under the law, she may serve unless more than 25 percent of eligible homeowners object.
If you object, email gartelmillpresident@gmail.com or write to P.O. Box 346, Millersville, MD 21108 by November 14. Please include your name and address so we can confirm you’re an eligible voter.
How voting will work – Your ballot will arrive with your annual dues statement in late November or early December. It will list every nominee for each position, plus a write-in line. Seal your ballot in the small envelope provided, then mail it back with your dues in the return envelope.
When the mail is collected, dues payments go to the board and sealed ballots go only to Tammy. She will count every vote by hand and sign a statement confirming the results. That signed record will be kept with the Association’s files, and any homeowner may ask to review it. Results will be announced at the Annual Meeting in March.
Thank you for being part of this process. Questions? Reach out anytime at gartelmillpresident@gmail.com.
Warm regards,
Gartelmill HOA Board
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