Disney Vacation Club members gathered at the December 2024 condominium meeting for Disney’s BoardWalk Villas to hear updates from the board of directors, raise questions, and discuss plans for the resort. This regular meeting provided insights into ongoing projects, updates on amenities, and operational changes that impact members.
Below, we’re breaking down the key takeaways for current and future BoardWalk Villas owners.
Meeting Overview
The December meeting, held on December 11th, 2024, saw the attendance of approximately 40-50 BoardWalk Villas owners. New Florida condominium association regulations now require quarterly meetings instead of the previous annual format, offering members more frequent opportunities to stay informed.
During the meeting, the board approved minutes from the previous session before opening the floor for member questions. Common topics discussed included room refurbishments, operational challenges, and long-term plans for the property.
Refurbishment and Room Updates
Board members shared updates on ongoing and upcoming refurbishments at BoardWalk Villas:
- Murphy Beds Installation: The transition from pull-out sofa beds to pull-down Murphy beds is nearly complete. Supply chain disruptions caused delays, but the final installations are projected to finish by March 2025.
- Accessible Room Door Openers: Members requested the addition of automatic door openers to accessible rooms, a feature available at other Disney resorts. The board has acknowledged this feedback and is working to address the issue.
- Design Changes: Some members noted the removal of tables and chairs in redesigned rooms, a change that sparked mixed reactions. While the board stated that all changes stem from a robust design process, they encouraged continued feedback for future design decisions.
Operational and Policy Insights
During the meeting, several operational concerns and policy clarifications were addressed:
- Complimentary Valet Parking: Members expressed disappointment over the removal of free valet parking, which some reported as being promised at the time of their purchase. The board clarified that perks like valet parking are subject to operational and policy changes over time.
- Budget Reports and Dues: The 2025 budget was approved, resulting in an annual dues increase to $9.06 per point—a 4.4% rise from the previous year. Board representatives highlighted the transparency of financial audits, which are typically made available to members by mid-year.
Questions About Member Benefits
Owners raised several questions about the availability and accessibility of benefits and reservations:
- Reservation Challenges: Members voiced concerns about difficulty securing reservations, noting that rooms are sometimes rented to cash-paying guests. The board explained that this arrangement supports exchange opportunities for DVC members using their points for non-DVC experiences, such as Disney Cruises or Adventures by Disney.
- Ownership Extensions Beyond 2042: When asked about potential contract extensions beyond the resort’s 2042 end date, the board stated that no such plans are currently in place.
Addressing Property Damage and Repairs
BoardWalk Villas experienced minor issues from the 2024 hurricane season. Damage was limited to cosmetic items, including light bulbs and awnings, which have been addressed under the resort’s insurance coverage. The board reassured members that the property is well-protected against more significant weather-related impacts.
Future Developments
One notable topic was the ongoing redevelopment of the former Big River Grill restaurant space. While the board confirmed active planning for this area, they did not provide specific details or a timeline for new offerings. Members are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on this front.
Conclusion
The December 2024 condominium meeting for Disney’s BoardWalk Villas provided valuable updates on refurbishments, financials, and policy changes impacting owners. These regular sessions offer an opportunity for DVC members to stay informed and provide input on the resort’s operations.
BoardWalk Villas
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
