Dana Bluffs PCAM Case Study – A Coastal Test of Skill
Jamie Hackwith, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Prendiville Insurance Agency
After months of coordination, the PCAM Case Study finally made its way to Orange County. The PCAM Case Study community, perched on the bluffs of Dana Point, offered sweeping ocean views and a coastal breeze. It was an inspiring setting for a major community- wide renovation project. The atmosphere was picture-perfect, but make no mistake, the PCAM Case Study is not for the weak at heart.
Facilitator Kirk Watilo led fourteen participants from across the United States, as well as Dubai, through two days designed to test every aspect of a manager’s expertise. The PCAM Case Study required attendees to answer ten comprehensive questions crafted by Kirk, after consultation with the Dana Bluffs Board, to ensure each manager has what it takes to earn CAI’s highest professional honor, the PCAM designation.
Day one opened with a property overview led by the Board President and Manager Dionne Petitpas with Vintage Group, covering the community’s history, maintenance challenges, contracts, and a recently approved special assessment. Attendees also heard from Great Scott Tree Care on fuel modification and O’Connell Landscape on maintaining coastal curb appeal, including recent renovation and sustainability efforts throughout the property.
The afternoon focused on Dana Bluffs’ multi-phase renovation, guided by McCormick-JWC, followed by a site tour led by manager Dionne Petitpas (Vintage Group). The tour showcased areas of active restoration, bluff preservation work, and ongoing landscape improvements.
Day two shifted to finances, with open discussions on budgeting, audits, and reserve planning with Association Reserves’ Sean Andersen and Sabrina Willison. I joined Patrick and Luke Prendiville for the insurance segment, where we reviewed coverage, claims, and the unique risks that challenge coastal communities such as Dana Bluffs. The day concluded with interviews of four of the five Board members, providing PCAM candidates with first-hand insight into leadership, community engagement, and the decision-making process behind complex projects.
Thank you, Vintage Group and Dana Bluffs for allowing CAI this unique opportunity to conduct the in-person PCAM Case Study at your location. Dana Bluffs proved to be the perfect proving ground, where knowledge, persistence, and perspective came together with an ocean view to match.
18 January | Febuary 2026
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