Happy Valentine’s! As
I am working my way through this blog posting, I am alternating between the
computer and the laundry room because tomorrow is moving day. Our vacation is ending in Florida and we have
to prepare this condo for visiting guests.
In addition to making sure the unit is sparkling clean and linens folded,
I remember the necessity of insuring that our guests know the rules of this
community.
In Florida, the
governing documents are referred to as Declarations and they are as bulky and uninteresting
to read as our well known Master Deed and Bylaw. Failure to heed some traditional restrictions
could ruin an otherwise great vacation.
The draping of a beach towel over the deck rail is guaranteed to produce
a visit from a concerned Board member and parking in the incorrect spot will
insure towing. So to reduce the risk of
problems, I will print off the “hot topics” and leave them for our friends and
visitors to read.
On our daily walk this morning, my husband and I discussed
“hot topics” for associations we represent for Cummings. We have agreed that annually there are 4-5
issues that we need to focus on for most associations. To keep those topics first and foremost in
the mind of our Directors, we plan to list those goals in the body of each
meeting agenda. That way we will be able
to review the goals with every Director and adjust expectations monthly rather
than falling short of time as the year progresses. My husbands’ concern for monthly
contributions to the community reserve funds will be #1 for his associations.
Your Board of Directors should collectively have the same goals for minimizing risk as well as enforcing restrictions. Make it a point to discuss with your manager what the hot topics are in your Association. Your fellow homeowners will often call our office without hesitation to share a concern about a possible "violation" in your community. Make sure that infomration is being shared with the board on a regular basis so you know exactly what your membership expects.
With the winter half over, I hope you have found the time to
rest and recharge. Plan to make a goal
for 2013 to meet with us and your fellow comrades in condominium directorship
at one or more of our training sessions.
Together we learn so much!
