Trump vote highlighted differences

Residents' decision this week to sell The Point Lake and Golf Club to Donald Trump resulted from two votes - one of which was quite close.

Donald Trump's son Eric told the Observer after Thursday's night vote that he and his father were pleased with what he called "overwhelming" support.

Homeowners were asked to vote on two issues affecting the sale of the exclusive Lake Norman club. One vote involved club members, whose votes were weighted depending on their membership levels. Those with golf memberships, for example, had the most votes.

Of the 1,793 weighted votes cast, 73 percent supported a sale, compared to 27 percent against the sale. Many of the club's golfers had favored a sale, residents have told the Observer.

In the other vote, homeowners were asked to vote on approving an amendment to documents governing the homeowners association. Fifty-one percent of total property owners were needed to approve the amendment, which would allow the sale.

That vote was closer: Roughly three-quarters of the 864 property owners voted. Of those, 450 homeowners, or 52.1 percent, voted yes.

Residents who voted yes to a sale have said the club would benefit from Trump's deep pockets and passion for golf. They expect to see better food, enhanced facilities and possibly rising home values because of Trump's involvement. Opponents say they worry about rising prices and disruption to their quality of life.

Crescent Resources developed the Nantucket-themed community and club in the late-1990s. All homeowners in the roughly 900-lot community must belong to the club. During the past few months, the prospect of a sale to the Trump Organization stirred up emotions among neighbors, pitting some against one another.

The sale is expected to close April 5.