History

During the summer of 1952 a small group of regular summer residents met at the home of Bob and Lois Drummond with the idea of forming an Association of property owners which would interest itself in community problems and lend its aid whenever feasible and appropriate. Temporary officers and directors were selected with Paul C. McBeth as President and temporary by-laws were drafted.

The idea met with unexpected response. Before the summer was over three hundred and twenty property owners had joined and paid the initial organization fee. The first regular meeting of the members was held on June 20, 1953 at the Park Theatre. Officers were elected and permanent By-Laws adopted. The Association has been active in connection with a number of matters as more particularly reported elsewhere in this bulletin. Of particular importance, however, was the fact that four hundred and twenty eight members had joined by the end of the summer season. A special meeting of the members was held on August 29, 1953, at the Park Theatre. At this time we heard in detail from Mayor Anderson, particularly with respect to the proposed beach pavilion at 93rd and the Beach.

By then the Association was well established. Its objective is clearly expressed in the by-laws as follows: “… to advise and consult with the Borough officers of Stone Harbor, N. J., with respect to matters of major importance affecting the interests of all property owners and residents to the end that such community projects may be planned and accomplished for the greatest good of all."

It is natural that in an organization such as this there will be divergent views as to its purpose and how it should operate. A policy has been born, however, after mature and considered discussion among the officers and directors. Taking as our model the above quoted objective, emphasis is on suggestion and cooperation as against complaint and criticism. We are not in politics. The election of Borough officers is a matter for the registered voters. We are not policemen. Infractions of the law are properly brought to the attention of the constituted authorities by individuals affected.

We start with the promise that the Borough government is sincere and intelligent and will do everything in its power to make Stone Harbor a pleasant and wholesome place in which to live. We, nevertheless, know that people do not always think alike but group thinking may be persuasive and productive of the best. An alert organization is our aim and your continued support is all that is needed.

This is your Association.

The ROA has not wavered from its original objective. For the past 50 years, and on into the future the objective remains the same.

To inform the membership of matters of importance to them as property owners in Stone Harbor

To advise and consult with the Borough officials about matters of concern to the membership, and in any and all others ways,

To promote the development, improvement and general welfareof the Borough of Stone Harbor and its environs.