Rentals by Georgia on Norris Lake

05/29/2025

Can't see this message? View in browser

DEERFIELD NEWS CONNECTION
Board of Director Election Results

THE FIRST BOARD OF DIRECTOR ELECTION RESULTS ARE IN CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEW BOARD

The Terms of the New Board of Directors are:
3-year terms: Scott Fields, Greg Hessler, Carol Lyons
2-year terms: Dan Hopkins, Nelson Lare, Car Schlotman III
1-year term: Ron Dubin, Walter Duvall, Mike Rees

Congratulations to all members of the new Board of Directors, and “Thank You” to all of the 18 candidates who chose to offer their service as Board Members!

This election of the Deerfield Resort Homeowners Association Board of Directors is an accomplishment worthy of recognition. This is our opportunity to move forward as a community in what will be something positive and productive!
Good things take time, effort and dedication.

Many of the new Board Members recognized the need for addressing the problems with the roads, improving security and safety, building a reserve fund, improving communications with the property owners, providing transparency and fiscal responsibility and bringing the community together through activities, etc. Supporting their efforts to make improvements in these areas will benefit the community!

Again, congratulations to all of the new Board Members and thank you to all of the property owners for voting and making the Deerfield Resort Homeowners Association, Inc a reality!

Sincerely,

Your Deerfield Neighbors,
Contributors to the “Connection” Newsletter

05/25/2025

05/25/2025

Thanks to everyone who voted! From the overseer Scott Reams: “Of the 783 eligible properties, 703 cast votes, or 90% of the eligible properties voted. You are to be congratulated on this turnout. Hopefully, this bodes well for the future of the resort.” Regardless, this means we each have a voice and vote in our community! My one goal of joining this battle. The other goal was to remove the illegal 2017 restrictions. The third was to get all the property that is owned by HOA returned! It has bedn a nasty fight when alm we needed to di was thise three thunfs. Sad but reality.
Thanks again!!!

05/22/2025

For years I supported the place that I called home and business. I did everything in my power to promote and help the community. Many have known me in business as being honest and not always saying what you want to hear but know it’s straight. I was happy calling our place home. Then I began hearing and seeing major issues that affected not only me but everyone who owned property. A marina was going into our area where we were told not only in person but it was covered by the press it would be for residents. Total mistruth! I received a copy of 2018 restrictions that were drafted and registered with the Deed office that virtually stripped all rights of a homeowner as well as threatened with liens if we didn’t go along. I have never wanted nor interested in control or being on a board. This has never been about contro but rather removal of our rights. I have been blocked from the page that has done nothing but lie about me and my intentions. This all because residents need representation as well as a vote in what happens around them. As we get ready to cast our votes, check your heart and your common sense! Not one person who began a legal battle to get you to a place today where you can vote has gained anything! It has cost $$$$ of dollars as well as loss of peace. Each of us have paid dearly for this act of freedom for you, we have also paid dues just as others in resort have .. don’t believe differently! Vote right! Vote for people who are trying to please the loudest voices …. Vote for the ones who will protect your homes and investment!
Regardless of who you listen to, check out the Connection that has everything documented!

05/20/2025

Can't see this message? View in browser

DEERFIELD NEWS CONNECTION
Concerns About Fees?
May 19, 2025

Many concerns have been raised regarding annual HOA fees, and whether or not they will be raised after the Board of Directors is elected. When you vote it is important to choose candidates with budgeting and financial planning know-how to keep the annual fees stable and avoid expensive assessments if possible.

The table and chart below indicate reported amounts of income, submitted by Fields Development Co, Inc, through the Discovery process of the lawsuit (orange), in Fields Reports issued to the community (gray), and the actual bank records (blue). There are obvious differences between what was reported and what the bank records indicate.

Plaintiffs’ Dues, held in a court-supervised trust account, are included here to show their proportion relative to total collections (yellow). Based on bank records, these dues made up just 4.5% of collections in 2020 and dropped to under 3.7% by 2024.

POTENTIAL INCOME
The lower table below lists the fee structure put in place in 2023. Using the number of properties that the Fields submitted to Mr. Reams in January 2024, the total revenue possible if every property owner is billed for every property owned, would result in $606,000 income from property owner fees. However, the bank records in 2024 indicate the total amount deposited was $438,348.12; a significant increase from previous years as a result of the fee increases, but significantly less than the $600,000 expected.

PAYROLL EXPENSES-A POTENTIAL COST SAVINGS
In reviewing the “Management Proposal” that Scott Fields submitted to Mr. Reams in 2024, there was a total of $469,060 in expenses. This included $201,869 in payroll expenses.
Historically, payroll expenses have been paid out of the property owner’s security and maintenance fees.

Generally speaking, HOA’s do not have employees. Maintenance contractors are often utilized in HOA’s and they are responsible for their own employee’s payroll expenses along with worker’s compensation insurance, payroll taxes, etc. This could result in lower overall expenses, allowing the property owner’s fees to be used for other expenses.

Many records will have to be examined by the new Board of Directors, making the best financially sound decisions on behalf of the members of the HOA. Having a budget, and a solid plan, is key to a stable future for the Resort.

With only 4 days left to vote, please use your vote wisely!

05/15/2025

https://1450wlaf.com/county-planning-commission-approves-minor-lot-subdivisions-5/

By Charlotte Underwood JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF)- Campbell County’s Regional Planning Commission met on Thursday evening at the courthouse for its March meeting, with multiple minor lot subdivisions being approved. First approved was a minor lot subdivision for Kove Properties LLC. on South High K**b R...

05/13/2025

CONNECTION
THE TRUTH ABOUT HOA EQUIPMENT AND YOUR VOTE
Election Voting Deadline is May 23rd, 2025


ADDRESSING SOME MISLEADING INFORMATION

For those who rely on social media for information and updates regarding Deerfield Resort, there is a need to correct some recent posts on the Deerfield Resort page. Specifically, there was a misleading comment suggesting that the HOA won’t have access to maintenance equipment if the developer’s slate of candidates is not elected to the Board. It is important to clarify the facts.

Property owner’s Security and Maintenance money was used to purchase this equipment as indicated in the bank records:

2017-2021 John Deere Tractor payments $19,991.34
2021 New Mower $ 6,512.20
2022 Marcus Rental (no memo) $ 6,048.00
2022 Jack Sweeney Automotive $ 8,206.00
2023 Dump Truck $ 6,600.00
2023 Blower $ 711.16


These expenses, totaling more than $48,000, represent investments made by the property owners for the maintenance of the Resort. This figure does not even include ongoing costs such as fuel, repairs, and insurance. To suggest that homeowners – who funded the purchase – would now be denied access to this equipment is simply false. The HOA owns this equipment. It will be up to the new Board of Directors to assess whether it is more financially responsible to continue owning and maintaining this equipment or to contract out these services.


A BOARD OF DIRECTORS WHO HAVE A PLAN

For the last 12 years the Developer has been collecting Security and Maintenance fees. Those who have owned property in Deerfield Resort during this time period have observed a gradual decline in many areas, demonstrating a lack of experience in leadership. The unattended issues that exist today are a result of not having a budget, or a plan for the future. Repeating the pattern will get the same results!

Have you ever seen a plan before? The Deerfield Forward 120-day Plan offers a clear vision and strategy getting out community back on track.

Please vote for the Deerfield Forward group of candidates:

Brent Ash - David Barnard - Steve Dehler - Mike Ramsey - Kim Satzger - Bill Simons

MAKE YOUR VOICE COUNT – SECURE DEERFIELD’S FUTURE

Vote for their experience, integrity, forward-thinking and commitment to the property owners and a better plan for Deerfield Resort. Voting closes at 4:00PM on May 23rd.

Thank you!

05/12/2025

DEERFIELD NEWS CONNECTION
May 12, 2025

Dear Deerfield Resort Property Owners,

Those who are running for the Board have shown a vested interest in Deerfield, and many are highly qualified with previous HOA board experience. But how does the length of time someone has lived in Deerfield factor into their qualifications?

A chart recently posted on Facebook by Paula Fields LeJeune lists all 18 board candidates highlighting their years of ownership. It clearly shows that the slate backed by Scott Fields, President of Fields Development Company, Inc and a candidate himself, is largely made up of individuals who have lived in Deerfield the longest and are closely aligned with the developer. This reinforces a concern; the developer’s slate is not based on diverse qualifications or new ideas, but on loyalty and longevity.

Consider this: Longtime residents may offer a valuable historical perspective, while newer owners often bring fresh eyes and are more likely to recognize persistent issues that have been neglected – including curb appeal, roads, signage, lighting, safety, fire protection, and the lack of financial reserves. What makes a strong board member isn’t how long you’ve lived here – it’s the ability to listen to all property owners, demonstrate leadership, and bring real-world experience and solutions to the table.

For years, the developer kept dues low, preventing the buildup of reserves and proper maintenance. This opened the door to unchecked growth and expansion – without adequate planning or funding – leaving infrastructure strained and major issues unaddressed.

Now is the time! This publication has always aimed to inform the community. There’s been a lengthy, legal fight for your right to vote and realize the transition to an owner-led HOA. The contributors to this publication have avoided endorsing candidates – until now. The goal has been to protect the democratic process, not to influence it.

But the climate has changed. The aggression, hostility, and bullying – especially on Facebook by some developer-aligned individuals – has escalated beyond healthy debate, with some behavior crossing into personal attacks and even threats. In this environment, staying neutral may no longer serve the community’s best interests. This is no longer just about a vote – it’s about the character of our leadership

That’s why the time has come to endorse the “Deerfield Forward” candidates. They bring HOA experience, relative business skills, and a true commitment to transparency, inclusion, and maintaining stable fees. They offer real leadership, practical solutions, and a forward-looking plan grounded in accountability and community values.

Take a look at their 120-day plan here: Deerfield Forward’s 120-day Plan.

With less than two weeks before polls close on May 23rd, please vote for the “Deerfield Forward” candidates –leaders committed to integrity, independence, and a clear plan for Deerfield’s future:

Brent Ash – David Barnard – Steve Dehler – Mike Ramsey – Kim Satzger – Bill Simons

You may cast up to 9 votes per property owned, though you're not required to use them all.

An additional endorsement is also going to Matt Stewart, who is running independently with a strong commitment to representing all property owners.

If you haven’t voted yet, visit deerfieldresorthoa.com to read the candidate bios.

Whatever the outcome, this election marks a turning point: you have a voice and there is a choice in how Deerfield is governed.

Please use it. This is our shared community – and it deserves leadership that reflects all of us.

Respectfully,

Your Fellow Deerfield Resort Property Owners

05/09/2025

DEERFIELD NEWS CONNECTION
May 8,2025
Open Letter to Deerfield Resort Property Owners:
What Scott Fields’ Management Agreement Reveals

Dear Fellow Deerfield Resort Property Owners,

Scott Fields – president of Fields Development Company, Inc. – has been at the center of Deerfield’s operations, alongside his sister, Paula Fields LeJeune, who serves as corporate secretary. Their family has managed the resort since the mid-1980s, with Scott and Paula assuming full control in 2021. Given this leadership history, one would expect a high degree of expertise and a clear, strategic vision for Deerfield’s future.

Unfortunately, Scott’s recently submitted management agreement, submitted under Deerfield Management, LLC, falls far short of that expectation.

Instead of presenting a need-based, transparent plan, the proposal begins with the full amount of HOA dues – $520,000 – and allocates this entire amount to management costs. No breakdown of actual costs. No data-driven budget. No assessment of common area conditions or estimate of useful life of these areas. This approach raises a troubling question: Is this about managing Deerfield Resort wisely – or just acquiring all available funds? It offers no assessment of community needs or opportunities to reduce costs through efficient planning – making it neither strategic nor cost-effective.

Without a detailed budget or an assessment of common areas, there is no way to determine whether this is a responsible use of dues. Worse still, the proposal reflects spending priorities set without owner input, offering no transparency beyond claiming the entire HOA budget.

A strong management agreement should be rooted in transparent planning. It should include tools like capital improvement schedules and infrastructure assessments to evaluate the condition and lifespan of critical assets: roads, gatehouse, courts, playgrounds, and more. These tools are essential for responsible financial management. Yet Scott’s proposal includes none of them.

Equally concerning is the complete lack of a reserve fund – a standard practice in HOA management. Reserve funds are critical to prevent sudden assessments or fee increases during emergencies or major repairs. By allocating every dollar to management and leaving nothing in reserve, the agreement exposes all property owners to unnecessary financial risk. This contract neglects long-term savings or protections that could minimize future costs.

In addition to these structural flaws, the proposal raises serious concerns. As president of multiple interrelated entities – including Fields Development Company,Inc., Deerfield Water Company, Fields Real Estate, and Deerfield Management, LLC – Scott holds a significant concentration of control. And yet, the agreement provides no transparency around how these roles intersect, no explanation of potential conflicts of interest, and no terms for oversight or accountability. It resembles a rough draft rather than a professional agreement – missing the detail, discipline, and long-term vision our community needs and deserves.

That leads to a simple but essential question: Would you sign this management contract?

If a contract fails to plan for the future, includes no financial safeguards, and demonstrates no meaningful expertise, how can it possibly serve as a foundation for responsible resort management?

The proposed management agreement is a wake-up call for Deerfield Resort’s property owners. How should residents use this information when evaluating future management agreements proposed by the newly elected, owner-led board? What principles of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and community focus should guide the path forward for Deerfield Resort?

Sincerely,
Your Deerfield Resort Neighbors

Proposed Management Agreement

05/05/2025

May 6, 2025
An Open Letter to Deerfield Resort Homeowners
Regarding Fees and Election Integrity

Dear Deerfield Resort Homeowners,

Many of you are understandably weary of the ongoing drama and personal attacks circulating on Facebook. While responding to social media commentary is typically not productive, the recent spread of misinformation has gone too far. These comments have not only undermined the integrity of the HOA election process but have also damaged the reputations of committed community members. A clear, factual, and respectful response is necessary to set the record straight.

As many property owners know, Deerfield Resort has been under legal oversight due to serious concerns about past financial mismanagement. In response, the court appointed a Receiver to oversee the activities of the Deerfield Resort HOA and to coordinate the court-mandated election of its first owner-led board – ensuring the election process is conducted with full transparency and accountability.

Accordingly, the Receiver was assigned the responsibility of vetting all Board candidates, as well as property owners, verifying their residency and confirming that dues were paid directly to Deerfield Resort or into the Receiver’s trust account as approved by the court. Only those who met these criteria were approved to appear on the ballot, ensuring a fair and legally sound election.

Recently, false claims have circulated regarding 2020–2024 fees weren't paid by certain Board candidates who are also plaintiffs in the lawsuit. These claims are simply untrue.

To clarify:

The Plaintiffs repeatedly demonstrated that the Fields were misusing funds to pay personal marketing, insurance, company and personal taxes, and were refusing to disclose many other uses of funds.

As a result, many Plaintiffs paid their dues into a trust account – later transferred to the Receiver – to ensure those funds were used exclusively for the benefit of the community, such as for security and maintenance, with strict oversight by the court-appointed Receiver.

The Plaintiffs consistently informed the Court—through multiple filings—that these funds, held under the Court’s authority, were fully available for use by Deerfield Resort, so long as they were directed toward legitimate HOA purposes under Court or Receiver oversight. The Fields opposed this oversight every time it was proposed.

These funds have remained in the Receiver’s possession, under the Court’s control. Not once did the Fields file a motion to use the funds for legitimate HOA expenses. Why? Because they did not want the Court or the Receiver to have any ability to restrict their use of the funds for the benefit of themselves or their own companies.

In good faith, Plaintiffs paid their dues either directly to Deerfield Resort or into a trust account. On multiple occasions, Steve Dehler and Kim Satzger specifically directed their payments to the Receiver, ensuring community funds were safeguarded and used solely for legitimate HOA purposes. These funds cannot be allocated to roads or common areas, as ownership of these assets remains with Fields Development Company or a Fields family member. Until the legal transfer of ownership to the HOA occurs, using HOA funds for these assets is legally improper.

It is important to address the source of these misleading Facebook posts. The Deerfield Resort on Norris Lake Homeowner Group page is administered by Paula Fields LeJeune, Scott Fields, and Kelly Sjogren who have full control over what remains and what is removed, as well as the ability to view the identities behind so-called "anonymous" accounts. While they claim to be defending the legacy of Deerfield Resort, the question remains: Is this the legacy they truly wish to uphold—one built on misinformation, personal attacks, and the deliberate division of the community?

Not all residents are active on social media. HOA board candidates, Steve Dehler and Kim Satzger do not use platforms like Facebook and, as a result, are unaware of public attacks or questions directed at them. If those posting were genuinely seeking answers, they could have easily reached out by email, as contact information is publicly available in the candidate bios at www.deerfieldresorthoa.com. Instead, these posts appear designed to shame, spread misinformation, and create division within our community.

This behavior does more than harm individual candidates – it undermines our entire community. It turns friends and neighbors against one another. We urge all residents to reject this toxic environment fostered by the Deerfield Resort on Norris Lake Homeowner Group page, rise above personal attacks, and engage in respectful, constructive dialogue. Strong communities aren’t built through fear or falsehoods. They’re built through trust, truth, and integrity.

Respectfully,

Your Deerfield Resort Neighbors