LH Today would like to introduce our readers to local community member Jim Boyer, who serves as the Resident Manager at Copperfield Condominiums located off of Royal Lane, just west of Skillman.

The Copperfield complex, built in 1983, consists of condominiums, town homes and zero lot line properties.

It's tucked away among many old trees and is one of the best kept secrets in Lake Highlands.

A big reason for that is having a Resident Manager taking care of the needs of the condominium owners - as opposed to an outsourced management company.

Boyer and his partner Nancy Burnett started B&B Management a year ago and between the two of them take care of every daily detail for this 150-unit property.

Prior to becoming the Resident Manager of Copperfield Condominiums, where did you live? And how long have you lived at Copperfield Condominiums?

I moved to Dallas from my birthplace, Indianapolis, in 1984. I started renting in Copperfield in 1987 and bought my own unit in 1999.

What other professions did you hold prior to taking on the role of a property manager?

I hired on with Western Electric in 1965 as a mail clerk. When the facility in Indianapolis closed, I was transferred to Dallas. Over what seems like so many years later, I retired from Lucent Technologies in 2000. The majority of my career was spent with Western Electric, AT&T, and Lucent working in computer technology.

Property Management may seem a far cry from computer technology, but so much of what I did then involved people skills, and what I do now most certainly does as well.

As a resident manager, how many hours a day do you spend servicing the Copperfield community?

My days never end - I'm on 24/7, taking care of the myriad of issues that come up on a daily basis among 150 units. And I live here! Not only is this my home, but these are my neighbors, too.

What's been your most unusual task as a Resident Manager? Your best and your worst, too.

It's interesting when you actually live on the property that you manage - you're right there and can handle all situations. I once had a try at cornering a raccoon - that would've been a Kodak moment!

My best task? Not so much a task, but rather my belief that I've earned the respect and camaraderie of the homeowners and tenants. My worst task is indeed a task - figuring out ways to deal with people who have a deaf ear, which can certainly be a challenge! But that too is part of the job.

About the new Town Center just up the road from Copperfield. What do you think?

I think Lake Highlands Town Center is going to be such a big plus for all the surrounding properties, and I plan to support it 110%.

Tell us about your family.

I had the best parents anyone could have! I was brought up in the 60's with respect, love and caring for all. There was no 'time out' back then, instead it was a paddle and a grounding! I miss my family everyday - they were my very best friends, and they taught me well. Those teachings have helped me throughout my life, in the jobs I've done and still do today.

What do you do in your off time, and do you have any hobbies?

My off time is usually spent relaxing with my favorite jazz music and enjoying friends. I would say my hobbies are always people-oriented. I love my music, my home and my friends. Oh, and an occasional glass of vino. I also volunteer with the DIFFA organization.

Any favorite Lake Highlands businesses?

I pretty much stay in the 'hood and frequent the surrounding restaurants...El Fenix, Sweet Temptations, Mi Cocina, Cantina Laredo and Highlands Cafe. Fast foods too! I must admit I do also enjoy the Lakewood area.

I love Kellan's Locksmith and the Vacuum Shop, too. I've been doing business with them for years.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Something people might find surprising about me is that I served Active duty in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. I was shocked that my tour ended up in Karlsruhe, Germany instead of Vietnam.

I was married at the time, and my wife was able to join me for the two years I was stationed in Germany. It was a wonderful experience for us both!

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