Information
The first Realty Owners Association meeting was held in August 1952 when 125 members met at the Park Theater. In 1955 the ROA hired its first Executive Secretary, Mr. Harry Letsche, who is credited as the prime mover behind the early successes of the ROA. In 1959 the very essence of the ROA was voiced - "To keep Stone Harbor a family town and a wholesome and safe resort for our children".
The purpose of ROA remains the same today as it was at the beginning - To inform the membership on matters of importance to them as property owners, to advise and consult with Borough officials about matters of concern to the membership, and in any and all ways possible to promote the development, improvement and general welfare of the Borough of Stone Harbor.
The ROA now has a paid membership of twelve hundred members, who must be property owners in Stone Harbor. Annual dues are $15. See Member Application to join.
The ROA Board of Trustees is comprised of nineteen interested owners who are elected to serve one three-year term. They are a mix of full-time and part time residents. At least one Trustee attends all meetings of Borough Council, Planning Board, Zoning Board, and School Board. They report key information with suggested action, if needed, at the Board of Trustees monthly meetings.
There are two ROA General Membership Meetings annually in June and September at 9:00 am in the Stone Harbor Elementary School auditorium.
The ROA Newsletter focuses on the most pressing issues in the Borough and is published six to eight times per year and mailed directly to each ROA member's permanent address.
ROA works together with the Chamber of Commerce, Garden Club, Historical Museum, and other organizations on various cooperative projects and annual events.
ROA has compiled and maintains an ROA Skills/Expertise Data Bank. The purpose is to provide a current confidential inventory of the skills/expertise of willing Stone Harbor homeowners and is used internally as a resource for ROA, the Borough and other community organizations in their planning efforts.
ROA makes periodic gifts to the Borough and community organizations.
Recent gifts are:
- the lighted outdoor bulletin board in front of Borough Hall
- an all-terrain beach wheelchair for handicapped beachgoers
- memberships to the Wetlands Institute and Historical Museum
- a permanent display organizer in the Historical Museum
- an electric video screen in the Elementary School auditorium
- the Town Clock on 96th Street
- a defibrillator for the Elementary School
