More And Better Choices!

The Casas Board Election has been electrified by the candidacy of two extraordinary homeowners. They bring the kind of expertise and experience that’s been lacking in the last year. The Editorial Board of Desert Breezes News would like to welcome Valerie Liautaud-Watkins and Janet McKnight as candidates for the Desert Breezes Casas Board.

Please take a moment to review these candidates qualifications. We think you’ll all agree: these are the neighbors we want on our Casas Board.

Janet McKnight

I am running to serve on the Desert Breezes Casas Board of Directors and pledge that I will:

• Approach each issue with an open mind
• Explore viable options to balance the interests of the community
• Apply my financial skills and abilities to assure fiscally responsible decisions

Professional Qualifications and Experience:

• Retired/former CPA, CMA, CFM with over 30 years of experience including: 
  • Controller and financial management positions 
  • Tenured accounting faculty member   
  • Auditor with a major world-wide firm 
• Managed annual budgets ranging between $20,000,000 – $80,000,000 
• Negotiated multimillion dollar contracts, including bonds and debt agreements 
• Responsible for compliance with accounting rules and federal regulations (this is relevant to the  foreclosed property)  
• Served over 10 years on the board of another HOA  
  • Treasurer for all years served  
  • Key committee member for a major construction project that came in on budget

I am requesting your support for my candidacy to serve on the Desert Breezes Casas Board of Directors.

Valerie Liautaud-Watkins

Why are you seeking election to the Board?

It is my determination to prioritize the community as a whole over individual wants and ensure Desert Breezes reaches maximum potential in transparency and appraisal status according to the existing CC&Rs. It is also my goal to ensure accuracy in contract negotiation, proper itemization and management.

Related work and volunteer experience:

Currently thriving at a Forbes Global 2000 ranked company, receiving top scores and turnaround times; 30 years experience in remodeling and new home construction; project manager for several simultaneous projects; skilled in crisis management in residential capacities; successful budget and building schedule management; customer service expert.

Other things you’d like people to know?

I pledge to be an active listener to ALL members of the Casas community and work WITH the Masters to enact positive change.