August 2025

GOVERNANCE... from page 38.

“Homeowner ranted for 12 minutes about her begonias” is not an appropriate entry. If it won’t matter in five (5) years, it doesn’t need to be a part of the association’s official record. 7. Transparency isn’t Optional Owners have the right to access records, ask questions, and attend meetings. That doesn’t mean every email or sticky note is public record, but major decisions should never feel like they’re made behind a velvet rope. Golden rule: If you wouldn’t want to explain it to the entire community, it probably needs rethinking. Final Thought: Governance isn’t About Control, it’s About Community Good governance is invisible when done right. It’s not about rigid control or endless red tape. It’s about fairness, consistency, and creating a place where people actually want to live. (Even if they sometimes complain about the pool hours.) Final-Final Thought: Let your manager run the meeting. They are best equipped to know what needs to be said and what shouldn’t be said. They’re there to keep the board out of trouble. n

budget and collect assessments, even if inflation makes everything feel like a cruel joke. Your share is also clearly identified in your governing documents. If you don’t use the elevator, you still have to pay your fair share, nothing more, nothing less. Reminder: Special assessments are what happens when reserves are ignored like expired yogurt in the fridge. 5. Enforcement: (It’s Not Personal) Boards enforce rules to maintain harmony, not to crush your dream of owning a 12-foot inflatable Santa. That said, consistent enforcement is key. Selective enforcement? That’s how lawsuits can happen. Rule of thumb: If you’d fine one neighbor for it, you’d better fine them all. 6. Minutes Matter Meeting minutes aren’t juicy gossip columns, but they are the legal record. Keep them concise, factual, and drama-free.

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