November 2023

NOVEMBER 2023 Community Trends

®

DON'T PANIC!

PeskyMonkey/ iStock / Getty Images Plus

In This Issue • Preparing for Extreme Weather Disasters • We Have Been Here Before...Kind of • Tightening Financial Controls in the Post-Pandemic World • Navigating the Digital Minefield: Top Scams to Be Aware of and How to Protect Yourself ....and more

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The Community Associations Institute New Jersey chapter would like to thank its 2023 Ultimate Partners below. For more information on our sponsorships, please contact CAI-NJ at 609-588-0030 or info@cainj.org.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT !

THE CAI-NJ COMMUNITY TRENDS ® MAGAZINE CONTENTS 15 Preparing for Extreme Weather Disasters By Nikki Schillaci, EBP Professional Restoration Services, LLC DBA PuroClean of Hoboken 26 Tightening Financial Controls in the Post-Pandemic World 15

By Ed Kwiatkowski, CPA Ed Kwiatkowski, CPA, LLC 34 We Have Been Here Before...Kind of By Robert Travis, CIRMS, CPIA, EBP Long Beach Commons Condominium Association, Inc. 40 Navigating the Digital Minefield: Top Scams to Be Aware of and How to Protect Yourself By Tom Hasard, CISSP WilkinGuttenplan 48 Management Trends — Don’t Panic: How to Devise a Strategic Plan for Emergencies By Erin Cautero, CMCA, AMS Matrix Property Management Group, LLC

26

34

EXTRAS President’s Corner Looking Ahead

5 6 7 8

CAI-NJ Upcoming Events

Legislative Update

Chapter Trends

10 13 17 22 27

Your Voice is Key with NJ-LAC & CA-PAC

Beach Party Recap & Photos

40

2024 CAI-NJ Partnership Program

2024 Annual Awards — Call for Nominations F.A.S.T. Kickball Tournament Recap & Photos 31 F.A.S.T. Make-A-Wish Breakfast & Castle Tour Registration 37 9 & Nosh Recap & Photos 38 Pints with PAC Happy Hour Registration 41 F.A.S.T Adopt-A-Family 43 2024 CAI-NJ Online Directory 45

48

Preparing for the Future — Continuity Planning for Community Associations Webinar Registration

47 49 50 53 55 60

Webinar Wednesdays

New Members

Winter Break Party Registration

Request for 2024 Education Proposals

iStock/Getty Images Plus

2023 Ultimate Partner Listings

3

NOVEMBER 2023

CAI-NJ BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

VICE PRESIDENT STEVEN MLENAK, ESQ. GREENBAUM, ROWE, SMITH & DAVIS, LLP

PRESIDENT ELECT CHRISTOPHER NICOSIA, CMCA, AMS, PCAM RCP MANAGEMENT COMPANY, AAMC, AMO

PRESIDENT TONY NARDONE, MBA, PCAM CORNER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, LLC, AAMC

TREASURER RYAN FLEMING, EBP JGS INSURANCE, A BALDWIN RISK PARTNER

SECRETARY KRISTINA MUNSON, CMCA, AMS, PCAM RCP MANAGEMENT COMPANY, AAMC, AMO

BOARD MEMBERS

Mary Barrett, Esq. Stark & Stark Attorneys at Law Business Partner

Charles Lavine Homeowner Leader Carol Nickerson, CMCA

Benjamin Basch, EBP Ground Support Services Business Partner Joseph Chorba, CPA

FirstService Residential, AAMC Community Association Manager Robert Travis, CIRMS Long Beach Commons Condominium Association Homeowner Leader

WilkinGutenplan Business Partner

GENERAL COUNSEL Jason Orlando, Esq. Orlando Murphy LLP

GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS Wendell A. Smith, Esq., CCAL Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis, LLP

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Jeffrey Logan Guardian Service Industries, Inc.

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NOVEMBER 2023

CALENDAR 2023 - 2024 Events & Education

NOVEMBER

FEBRUARY

1

6 22

Community Conversations - Loneliness Epidemic: Concentrating on Social Connections in Your Community Virtual

CMCA Study Group - Coffee & Cram CAI-NJ Headquarters, Freehold

Annual Awards Celebration The Event Center @iPA, Freehold

14 16

Pints with PAC - Happy Hour Chickie’s and Pete’s, Bordentown

MARCH

Make-A-Wish Check Presentation Breakfast & Castle Tour Make-A-Wish Castle, Monroe Preparing for the Future - Continuity Planning for Community Associations Virtual

21

CA-PAC Top Golf Top Golf, Edison

29

APRIL

16

Conquer + Connect The Imperia, Somerset

DECEMBER

5 5 6

Annual Meeting & Chapter Retreat The Grand Marquis, Old Bridge

JUNE

18

Winter Break Party The Grand Marquis, Old Bridge

Dennis R. Casale Memorial Golf Outing Forsgate Country Club, Monroe

Wednesday Webinar Virtual

AUGUST

15

Ultimate Event - Jersey Shore BlueClaws ShoreTown Ballpark, Lakewood

Register for these and other events at www.cainj.org All events are subject to change .

PRESIDENT’S CORNER Tony Nardone, MBA, PCAM 2023 CAI-NJ PRESIDENT CORNER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, LLC, AAMC

L iving in a close-knit community can be a wonderful experience. It often means forming lasting relationships with neighbors and enjoying a sense of security that comes with knowing your surroundings. However, in any community, there can be bad actors seeking to take advantage of the trust and familiarity that comes with communal living. Scammers often target community living environments, preying on unsuspecting residents for financial gain. In this column, we’ll explore various scams that can occur in community living and provide tips on how to protect yourself from falling victim to them. 1. Home Improvement Scams Home improvement scams are prevalent in community living settings, where residents may be looking to enhance their properties. Scammers may pose as contractors, offering to make repairs or renovations, and then disappear after receiving payment. To protect yourself: a. Verify credentials: Always check the contractor’s credentials, including licenses and insurance. Ask for references and contact them to gauge their reliability. b. Get written estimates: Avoid verbal agreements. Demand written contracts that include a detailed breakdown of costs, materials, project timelines and ask for copies of insurance and licenses. c. Pay in installments: Refrain from paying the full amount upfront. Establish a payment plan tied to project milestones to ensure the work is being completed satisfactorily. 2. Rental Scams Community living often involves rentals, such as apartments or vacation homes. Scammers create fraudulent listings for these properties, enticing renters to pay a deposit or the full rent. The property does not exist, and the money is lost. Protect yourself by: a. Verify the property: If the rental seems too good to be true, it probably is. Visit the property in person and meet the landlord before committing to any payments. b. Use trusted platforms: Utilize reputable rental platforms with verified listings and user reviews. Be cautious of deals that are only available through private communication. c. Avoid wire transfers: Scammers often request wire transfers or payment meth ods that are difficult to trace. Use secure payment methods, such as credit cards or online payment systems. 3. Utility Bill Scams Scammers impersonate utility providers, demanding immediate payment or threatening disconnection. To avoid falling for utility bill scams: CONTINUES ON PAGE 52

CAI-NJ TEAM

ANGELA KAVANAUGH CHAPTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ANGELA@CAINJ.ORG JACLYN OSKIERKO DIRECTOR, CONFERENCE & EVENTS JACLYN@CAINJ.ORG ROBIN SURGENT DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT ROBIN@CAINJ.ORG BROOKE STOPPIELLO-NEVINS COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

BROOKE@CAINJ.ORG JENNIFER FARRELL PROGRAM MANAGER JENNIFER@CAINJ.ORG

Contact CAI-NJ

ADDRESS CAI-NJ

500 HARDING ROAD FREEHOLD, NJ 07728 PHONE 609-588-0030 FAX 609-588-0040 WEB WWW.CAINJ.ORG EMAIL INFO@CAINJ.ORG

CAI-NJ on Social Media

www.facebook.com/ CAINJCHAPTER Community Associations Institute - New Jersey Chapter

@cainewjersey

CAI-NJ

5

NOVEMBER 2023

LOOKING AHEAD ANGELA KAVANAUGH | CAI-NJ CHAPTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

• We Have Been Here Before…Kind of, e xplains the causes and history of the insurance industry’s hard mar ket and what we can anticipate for the future. • Preparing for Extreme Weather Disasters, a checklist of what to include in your disaster plan. • Tightening Financial Controls in the Post-pandemic World, suggests practices that should now be reviewed to ensure adequate financial controls are in place. • DON’T PANIC: How to devise a strategic plan for emer gencies, lists items to include in your strategic plan to best prepare for financial and maintenance emergencies. Coming up for you at CAI-NJ! • Pints With PAC Happy Hour on November 14th at Chickie’s and Pete’s. • Make-A-Wish Breakfast & Castle Tour on November 16th at Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey. • Preparing for the Future – Continuity Planning for Community Associations, live webinar on November 29th. • Annual Meeting & Chapter Retreat on December 5th at the Grand Marquis. • Winter Break Party on December 5th at the Grand Marquis. Now Accepting Proposals for Speaking Opportunities. If you would like to share your expertise with our mem bers, submit a proposal for a 2024 educational program, https://cainj.org/education-proposals/ 2024 Partnership Program is now available. Business Partner and Management Company members, you can take advantage of this program to gain brand recognition and enhanced exposure that will allow you to stand out CONTINUES ON PAGE 62

“Thanksgiving isn’t just a day. It’s a way we can live our lives every day.” — Katrina Mayer

T hanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday, no gifts to shop for, only to share the gift of love from family and friends that fill our lives and create new memories and traditions. We recognize that we should be mindful of all that we have to be grateful for every single day, and the holiday season is a reminder to take stock of how fortunate we are and not dwell on what we wish we had. When we open our hearts and identify this, we realize how privileged we are as this is the wealth of our lives. Being grateful for every day is where our fortunes are found. Gratitude yields happiness. Let us not forget to thank our veterans for their service, bravery, and sacrifice for us and our country on Saturday, November 11th - Happy Veterans Day! On behalf of the entire CAI-NJ staff, we are extremely appreciative of those that volunteer to serve the chapter and its members. Without the time and support from the chapter’s Board of Directors, our Partners, the committee members and program sponsors, the chapter would not be able to serve the members with the timely education and member benefits that so many value. Within this month’s issue of Community Trends ® The Winter season is quickly approaching but the best assurance that panic does not take over is to be as prepared as possible for what may arise. The articles in this issue, “Don’t Panic,” offer insight into how you can best protect yourself and your community if you confront a threat or disaster. • Navigating the Digital Minefield: T op Scams to Be Aware of and How to Protect Yourself, recommends ways to ensure that we safeguard our data from poten tial threats.

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NOVEMBER 2023

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

MATTHEW Z. EARLE, ESQ. KATES, NUSSMAN, ELLIS, FARHI & EARLE, LLP LEGISLATIVE ACTION COMMITTEE CHAIR

Federal Reporting Requirement to Go into Effect for Community Associations: Here’s What it Means for Your Community and its Board Members By Gregory Vinogradsky, Esq., EBP, Callahan & Fusco, LLC

T he Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) is a 2021 federal law that will be going into effect in 2024 that requires community associations throughout the coun try to report and disclose certain information of its Board members to a private federal database.

The “reporting company” must provide the following infor mation: (1) its full legal name;

(2) complete US address; (3) State of formation; and (4) Tax ID Number.

The CTA was designed to assist the federal government in identifying “ben eficial owners” that are responsible for exercising “substantial control” over a “reporting company” for the purpose of oversight and monitoring and to deter “money launderers, terrorists, and crim inals”. What this means for community

The “beneficial ownership information” that must be reported by each board member (or 25% ownership inter est individual) includes the following: (1) full legal name; (2) date of birth; (3) current residential or business street address; and (4) a unique identifying number from an acceptable identification document such as a passport, driver’s license or other government issued identification document. This information would be stored on a private database that is not accessible to the public. Further, this informa tion must be updated within a year after a change to the “beneficial owners”. This would potentially mean annual updates to the database if there was a change to the com position of an Association’s Board or ownership interest in the Association by an individual/entity that exceeds 25%. There are certain exemptions to this law, many of which do not apply to community associations and are geared more towards corporations that already have federal oversight such as banks, insurance companies etc. One exception that may apply to larger community associations that fall under the “Large Operating Company” exception

Gregory Vinogradsky, Esq., EBP

associations is that they, or their LAC, must monitor the Treasury and its rule making agencies for guidance on how to comply with this law. As it currently stands, a “reporting company” is a corpo ration, limited liability company or other similar entity that is created by filing of a document with a secretary of state or similar office under the law of the state. This would include community associations, which are typically registered as a non-profit or not-for-profit corporation under an article of incorporation filed with the Secretary of State. The “beneficial owners” of the community association that must be reported is any individual who (1) exercises “sub stantial control” over the entity or (2) owns or controls not less than 25% of the ownership interests of the entity. There is no specific definition for who this would apply to as it relates to community associations, but it would appear that this requires board members and/or unit owners that have at least a 25% ownership interest in the community to register.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 62

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NOVEMBER 2023

2023 CAI-NJ COMMITTEES

AWARDS COMMITTEE Annie Gonzales — Chair Lila Khiry Cirillo — Vice Chair Jeanine Clark, Esq. Drew Cowley Lindsay Cupples, EBP

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Nicole Martone, CMCA, AMS, PCAM — Chair

GOLF OUTING COMMITTEE Fred Hodge, Jr., EBP — Chair Keith Giliberti, PE, RS, EBP — Vice Chair Harold Berlowe, CMCA Chris Belkot Lorenzo Cullari, AICP Sal Iozzia Hank Johns, EBP Lisa Komitor Cathy Mango, EBP Karl Meth, Esq. Paul Migliore

MANAGER COMMITTEE Mary Barone, CMCA, AMS — Chair Chuck Graziano, PCAM — Vice Chair Erin Cautero, CMCA, AMS Tom Curry, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Michael Flippin, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Anthony Gjergji, Jr. Richard Mattalian, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Erin O’Reilly, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Vincent Rapolla, AMS Mariaellen Varelis Elaine Warga-Murray, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Michelle Williams, CMCA, AMS Board Liaisons Kristina Munson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Carol Nickerson, CMCA Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Tara Baldwin, CPA — Chair Megan Elgard, EBP — Vice Chair Michael Barch Lysa Bergenfeld, Esq. Nichole Gist Antoinette Hutchinson Melissa Lloyd, CMCA, AMS

Drew Podolski, Esq. — Vice Chair Robert Arnone, MSRE, CMCA, AMS

Don Cabrera, CMCA David Dockery, Esq. Jonathan Katz, Esq. Damon Kress, Esq. Michael Mezzo, CPA, MBA

Kim Dempsey Jeffrey Logan Christine Maldonado Michael Millar Vanessa Pena Kari Prout, CMCA

Steven Morris. RS Casey Sky Noon Robert Roop Board Liaisons Mary Barrett, Esq. Carol Nickerson, CMCA Staff Liaison: Brooke Stoppiello-Nevins EVENTS COMMITTEE Debbie Pasquariello, CIC, CIRMS, EBP — Chair Diane Cody, CMCA, PCAM — Vice Chair Ray Barnes, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Tim Bruchez

Nicole Skaro, CMCA, EBP Eileen Szelewicki, CMCA Mary Visco Sandi Wiktor Board Liaisons Tony Nardone, MBA, PCAM Christopher Nicosia, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell BUSINESS PARTNER Gregory Vinogradsky, Esq., EBP — Chair Mike Luzzi, CPIA, EBP — Vice Chair Theresa Beckett, EBP Jack Benson Jordan Burkhalter, CPA

Mike Polulak, Esq. Ross Rutman, EBP David Shahrabani, EBP

Jasmin Shelton Jodi Smallwood Michael Sturchio Ryan Weiner Charles Witczak, III, PE, PP, PLS Tom Witkowski Paul Wojciechowski Board Liaisons Steven Mlenak, Esq. Tony Nardone, MBA, PCAM

Dean Catanzarite Justine DelVecchio

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell HOMEOWNER LEADER COMMITTEE Richard Lans — Chair Lois Gerber — Vice Chair Bruce Blum Roslyn Brodsky Barbara Finn, CMCA

Frank Fasolo, IV Freedom Hildreth Pam Illiano Stacey Koehl, CMCA, AMS Laura McIntyre, EBP Daniel Reilly Rachel Rutman Christina Mirra Sohnen Randy Vogel Melissa Volet, Esq. Jill Zulin Board Liaisons Joseph Chorba, CPA F.A.S.T. COMMITTEE Steven Kuhnert — Chair Jessica Long — Vice Chair JP Ascolese Adara Azeez Chelsea Brodmerkel Jonathan Cairone Alexis Dairman Eric Eggert, CIC, CIRMS Shelby Evans, CPA, EBP Kristi Evans Rebecca Gavin Mary Ellen Liberatore Will Meola Marian Miawad, Esq. Nicole Miller, Esq. Charles Lavine Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell

Kim Manicone Mark Mojares Kathleen Radler Brent Rivenburgh, EBP Steve Roderick, EBP Michael Ryan Ken Shah Rick Sobczak Ryan Trembley Michael Willner, Esq. Board Liaisons Joseph Chorba, CPA

Ron Fermano Carrie Fusella Dave Kiessling Richard Lang, EBP Toni Licciardi Chris Merkler Donna Meyer, EBP Ben Mitrou John Prisco, Esq. Sal Sciallo Jessica Vail, EBP David Velasco, EBP Michael Vennitti, EBP Board Liaisons Benjamin Basch, EBP Ryan Fleming, EBP

Charles Fredericks Kenneth Freeman Salvatore Gurriero

Keira Hauck Carl Kentzel Cheryl Palent

Charles Lavine Staff Liaison: Robin Surgent WOMEN’S LEADERSHP COMMITTEE Lirelle Klein — Chair Jamie Cullen, CMCA — Vice Chair Amani Abdellah, Esq. Jennifer Carr

Board Liaisons Charles Lavine Robert Travis, CIRMS

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent LEGISLATIVE ACTION COMMITTEE (LAC)/PAC Matthew Z. Earle, Esq. — Chair Edward San George, PCAM — Vice Chair Jackie Thermidor, CMCA, AMS, PCAM — Secretary Mohammed Salyani, CPA — Treasurer Elizabeth Comando, CMCA, PCAM — PAC President Andrew Podolski, Esq. — PAC Vice President James Rademacher, EBP — PAC Committee Jennifer Alexander, Esq. Roslyn Brodsky Barbara Drummond, CMCA, PCAM

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent

CONFERENCE & EXPO Saher Gouda, EBP — Chair Shelia Adams, CMCA — Vice Chair Joe Bonafede Jay Burak Nicole Camarota, CMCA, AMS George Caso Martinez Angela Celeste Ellen Comiski, CMCA Marty Conway John Echelmeier Jessica Kizmann, CPA Danita Susi Holly Teufel, CMCA, AMS Board Liaisons Ryan Fleming, EBP Christopher Nicosia, CMCA, AMS, PCAM

Linda Courain, CMCA, AMS Svetlana Malinsky, CMCA Kristin Marzarella Gail McDermid, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Rachel Neves Jennifer Nevins, CMCA, EBP Jen O’Brien Cheryl Rhine, CIC, CIRMS, EBP Nikki Schillaci, EBP Lisa Vitiello, CPA Board Liaisons Mary Barrett, Esq. Kristina Munson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM

Jose Romero Dharmi Shah Peter Shine, EBP

Mitchell Frumkin, RS Vincent Hager, CIRMS Karyn Kennedy-Branco, Esq. Terry Kessler, Esq. J. David Ramsey, Esq. Lisa Rayca, CMCA, AMS John Reichart Alexander Scheffer, CMCA Board Liaisons: Richard Milder Cheryl Palent

Lauren Vadenais, EBP Kristy Winchock, EBP Board Liaisons Benjamin Basch, EBP Kristina Munson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Staff Liaisons: Brooke Stoppiello-Nevins Robin Surgent

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Robin Surgent

Staff Liaisons: Jaclyn Oskierko Jennifer Farrell

Steven Mlenak, Esq. Robert Travis, CIRMS Staff Liaisons: Angela Kavanaugh Robin Surgent

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NOVEMBER 2023

CHAPTER TRENDS Prime Management and RCP Management Company, AAMC, AMO Announce Strategic Partnership and Merger Prime Management, a respected leader in the community association management industry located in Southern NJ and RCP Management, a leader in the property manage ment industry in Central and Northern NJ announced its strategic partnership and plans to merge the two organi zations by November 2023. The partnership and merger will allow the combined organization to enhance services to its current and future clients by leveraging operational efficiencies across the combined organization. RCP Management will be the go-forward organization post-merger. Kristina Munson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM will be the President of the combined organization and Christopher Nicosia, CMCA, AMS, PCAM will be the Chief Operating Officer. Both will be partners of Continuum Companies, the parent company to RCP. Annie Gonzales, current COO of RCP will become the Chief of Staff of the combined orga nization. Operational integration of the two organizations occurred on November 1st. The combined organization will have offices in Bloomfield, Manahawkin, and its corporate headquarters in Cranbury.

Taylor Management Company, AAMC, AMO, Welcomes Connie Calabrese as their New Business and Relationship Director Connie brings a wealth of experience in finance, operations, technology, and community management, with a background that includes a finance degree from William and Mary and

a successful career at Equitable/AXA. Connie’s extensive expertise and unique skill set will undoubtably enhance the services of Taylor Management. Connie’s career also features key roles as HOA Board Treasurer, and as the founder of an online registration

and ticketing app, which broadened her expertise in sales, marketing, website design, SEO, social media, and CRM management. Her track record in community management with another NJ management company enhances her readiness to expand Taylor Management’s regional brand presence. n Connie Calabrese

Chapter Trends Editorial Guidelines

• All submissions must come from and be about: - A member of CAI-NJ (Manager, Management Company, Board Member, Business Partner or Business Partner Employee) in good standing. • Companies/Communities are permitted four (4) announcements per calendar year. • Submissions are limited to 150 words. - Members are responsible to condense the information appropriately, as CAI-NJ will not do so. Any submissions over 150 words will not be published.

• Submissions may include (1) image. • Submissions should not be advertorial in nature. Please note, CAI-NJ reserves the right to edit any submissions. The chapter reserves the right to omit information as necessary. CAI-NJ has the exclusive right to refuse to publish any submissions for any reason. For questions regarding the Chapter Trends section of Community Trends ® , please contact brooke@cainj. org or 609-588-0030.

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NOVEMBER 2023

We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest. www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com

We’re excited to custom build an Insurance Solution that’s just right for you. Our experts from across industries and especially our Residential and Commercial Habitational experts can help you meet your needs. Together, we can put your worries to rest.

www.HOAInsuranceNJ.com

Architecture & Design Building Envelope Capital Reserve Studies Civil Engineering Concrete Restoration EV Charging Expert Witness Façade Inspections Forensics, Litigation & Insurance Claims MEP & Energy Services MEP Energy Rebate Programs Structural Engineering Transition Engineering Studies Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Acrsure , is a leading insurance broker and consultant that provides employee benefits, property & casualty, retirement and individual private client solutions through our licensed subsidiaries and affiliates. Our expertise is matched only by our local precense and personal commitment to each client’s goals. Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA Commercial Real Estate Protect Y our self with the R ight I nsurance P rogram and S ervices at the R ight P rice. • Homeowners Insurance • Auto Insurance • Business Insurance • 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA Commercial Real Estate 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA 908-382-6625 NJ | Info@ InsurePeopleFirst.com. com | 484-546-7770 PA Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services • Responsive Claims Department • Risk Management Services Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey Local offices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

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NOVEMBER 2023

CAI-NJ 2023 PARTNERS

Alliance Association Bank Ansell Grimm & Aaron, PC Associa Community Management Corp., AAMC Becker BELFOR Property Restoration Brown & Brown Insurance of Lehigh Valley Corner Property Management, LLC, AAMC

Hill Wallack LLP Kipcon Inc. McGovern Legal Services, LLC PS&S, LLC Professional Restoration Services, LLC DBA PuroClean of Hoboken Rezkom Enterprises, Inc. Sweeping Corp. of America (SCA) Taylor Management Company, AAMC, AMO Technocality, Inc. USI Insurance Services WilkinGuttenplan

Denali Property Management, Inc. The Falcon Group - Engineering, Architecture & Reserve Specialists FWH Associates, P.A.

GAF

Accent Group Access Property Management, AAMC, AMO Adamas Building Services All County Exteriors Amco Pest Solutions, Inc. Anchor Pest Control Becht Engineering BT, Inc. Buckalew Frizzell & Crevina LLP Capital One Bank, N.A. New Jersey Clearview Washing, LLC Cowleys Pest Services Curcio Mirzaian Sirot, LLC Cutolo Barros, LLC Dior Construction, Roofing, and Siding

Environmental Designers Irrigation, Inc FirstService Residential, AAMC FloodCo USA Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP Griffin Alexander, P.C. Guardian Service Industries, Inc. Innovative Pressure Cleaning The Jesan Companies JGS Insurance, a Baldwin Risk Partner KPI2 Enterprises, Inc. Lemus Construction, Inc. Mackoul Risk Solutions, LLC

Preferred Community Management Services, Inc., AAMC Radom & Wetter Renda Roads, Inc. Snowscapes South Shore Construction, LLC STAR Building Services Two Men Property Services Group, Inc. Popular Association Banking Quality 1st Contracting, Inc. Rainbow - G & J Painting, LLC Regal Restoration USA Republic Services of New Jersey, LLC SageWater Servpro of Howell/Wall Stark & Stark Attorneys at Law Valley Bank Wilkin Management Group, Inc. Witczak Engineering One Call Roofing & Siding O & S Associates, Inc. Parallel Architectural Group Pardini R. Construction Corporation PeopleFirst Property & Casualty Services

Morris Engineering, LLC National Contractors, Inc. National Cooperative Bank

Garden State Pavement Solutions Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla Hueston McNulty, P.C. L.N. Rothberg & Son, Inc. Landscape Maintenance Services, Inc. Mizza Pest Control

Accurate Reconstruction APC Hospitality, LLC AR Management Company Association Advisors NJ CCA, Construction Consulting Associates, LLC Felsen Insurance Services, Inc. First Onsite

MyPropertyBilling.com Pacific Western Bank

YOUR NJ-LAC & CA-PAC WORKING HARD PROTECTING THE INTERESTS OF COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS

Walk the halls of our capitol in Trenton and you see a lot of doors… doors to legislator’s offices… doors to committee rooms… doors to the Assembly and Senate chambers. It takes a lot to get through those doors. You’re not just invited in. You need a key. With a key you’re taken seriously. With a key, you get things done. THAT’S WHY CAI-NJ CARRIES THREE KEYS: • Your Legislative Action Committee (NJ-LAC): Your key eyes, ears, legs and voice in the legislative process. • Your Political Action Committee (CA-PAC): Your key contributions to support elected officials who aim to strengthen your community. • Your Professional Lobbyists: Your key, full-time pros retained by the LAC who know government’s ins and outs, advise us on who to see and when, and how to connect . WHAT CAN YOU DO?: • Take Action – Your voice is key! After meeting with elected officials and clarifying our position on pending legislation, we will alert you to the most crucial actions you can take. By calling or writing your officials, you ensure that your voice, and our agenda, is heard. • Give – Your donations are key! Supporting the PAC with your donations shows legislators that you’re serious, and that our cause counts. • Promote – Your personal influence is key! Talk about CAI-NJ’s legislative engagement in your community and business. Let fellow residents know that we’re fighting for them and their communities!

The keys only work with your support.

Make your gift to the CA-PAC today!

Yes, I’d like to support CA-PAC with a pledge!

PLEASE NOTE: Sorry, CA-PAC cannot accept credit cards. Please make your CORPORATE or PERSONAL CHECK payable and mail to: CA-PAC, 500 Harding Road, Freehold, NJ 07728

I AM A...

____ Community Association Manager. You represent a company or association who manages CAI-NJ communities.

____ Community Supporter. You represent a business that supports CAI-NJ communities with services or products.

____ Community Resident. You live in a CAI-NJ community and want to see it grow strong.

My Association/Management company is making a PAC gift of:

___ $250 ___ $500 ___ $1000 or $________

___ $100 ___ $250 ___ $500 or $________

My supporting business is making a PAC gift of:

I am personally making a PAC gift of:

___ $50 ___ $100 ___ $250 or $________

Community/Company: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Individual Name:_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address:______________________________________________________________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP:______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone:_________________________________________________________Fax: ________________________________________________ Email:________________________________ Occupation:______________________ Employer:_____________________________________ Employer Address:___________________________________________________________________________________________________ City, State, ZIP:______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sorry, CA-PAC cannot accept credit cards. Please make your CORPORATE or PERSONAL CHECK payable and mail to: CA-PAC, 500 Harding Road, Freehold, NJ 07728

Management Company Name: _________________________________________ (Community Association’s Only)

DO NOT INCLUDE MY NAME OR COMPANY ON THE LIST OF CA-PAC CONTRIBUTORS

The New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission requires us to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of the employer of contributors whose contribution exceeds $300 in a calendar year. Contributions to CA-PAC are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are not limited to suggested amounts. CA-PAC will not favor nor disadvantage anyone based upon the amounts or failure to make PAC Contributions. Voluntary political contributions are subject to limitations of ELEC regulations. CA-PAC contributions are not considered payment of CAI dues. TO DONATE TO CA-PAC, SEND CONTRIBUTIONS TO : CA-PAC, 500 Harding Road, Freehold, NJ 07728

Preparing for EXTREME WEATHER DISASTERS By Nikki Schillaci, EBP Professional Restoration Services, LLC DBA PuroClean of Hoboken

H urricanes, tornados, and thunderstorms, oh my! These random acts of Mother Nature can be extremely destructive, especially if you live near water. It takes seconds for a house to wash away, and lightning can strike a distance of up to 10-15 miles! Prevention is key and preparing your home or business for a natural disaster is crucial to minimize damage and save lives. Planning begins with knowing the risks in the area where you are as to weather hazards, as well as your surroundings. This article will cover some helpful tips to stay safe during extreme weather. Have an emergency kit prepared such as blankets, bat teries, non-perishable foods, and extra water, including any valuable items. Communicate with family members or co-workers prior so there is a plan of action, if needed. Here are some other preparation tips to keep in mind: • Securing boats, filling cars with fuel, and perhaps filling containers for reserve. • Be sure to keep trees pruned and trimmed of dead or hanging branches. • Tie down all loose patio furniture, keep umbrellas closed, and put away glass objects. • Keep gutters properly maintained to avoid flooding and inspect drain spouts to clear potential blockage. CONTINUES ON PAGE 16

“Planning begins with knowing the risks in the area where you are as to weather hazards,

as well as your surroundings."

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EXTREME WEATHER... from page 15.

• Fill bathtubs with water if you have a well/septic tank to be able to flush toilets. • Generators must be properly ser viced and connected by a licensed electrician, if applicable. • Utilize sandbags to protect exterior doors. Finally, have a reliable contact/ company to call that is available 24/7 to help walk through the steps to alleviate problems before, during, and after a disaster. n

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION BANKING Your experts in the HOA industry.

With First Citizens Community Association Banking, formerly part of the bank’s CIT division, you can count on continued service from the experts you know. And as one of the nation’s top 20 banks, we offer market-leading products matched with innovation and award-winning 1 technology to help you grow your business. Your community association management company deserves no less than a financial provider that can bring you the scale, service and capabilities you need to stay ahead.

Nicole Skaro, VP, Regional Account Executive nicole.skaro@firstcitizens.com | 908-524-8741

firstcitizens.com

1 We received a 2022 FinTech Breakthrough Award for Best B2B Payments Platform. © 2023 First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company. All rights reserved. MM#13544

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MARTELL’S TIKI BAR, Pt. Pleasant ThursDAY, September 14, 2023 Presented By:

Photo Booth Sponsor First Citizens Bank Band Sponsor First Onsite Cornhole Tournament Sponsor Anchor Pest Control Lanyard Sponsor Access Property Management, inc., AAMC, AMO Raw Bar Sponsor USI Insurance Services

Sunglasses Sponsor mem property management co., inc Rita’s Ice Sponsors Regal Restoration USA RMG, Regency Management Group, AAMC Koozie Sponsor

Beverage Cup Sponsors Bell General contractors Preferred Community Management Services, Inc., AAMC. Drink Ticket Sponsors First Onsite mem property management co., inc.

Fwh Associates, P.A. Buffet Sponsors BELFOR Property Restoration REINO PAVING INC. Coctail Napkin Sponsors Alliance association bank Kipcon, Inc.

Decoration Sponsors Apex Air Duct, Dryer Vent & CHimney Cleaning Mezzacca & Kwasnik, LLC Morris Engineering, LLC

A RTHUR E DWARDS I NC . Experts in Community Association Management with over 35 years of Experience Serving NJ, NY, PA  People with expertise, resources and commitment  People who work as hard as you to get results  People who know every day is an opportunity to learn something new Talk to us… 201-722-9600 Together we can achieve success! info@arthuredwardsinc.com www.arthuredwardsinc.com We've learned the success of a community is easier when you have:  People you can rely on  People who listen

Corporate Headquarters 210 Broadway ♦ Hillsdale NJ 07642

Northwest Regional, NJ

Pennsylvania

25 Route 23

425 Fayette Street #309 Conshohocken, PA 19428

Franklin, NJ 07416

2024 PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

The 2024 Community Associations Institute New Jersey chapter Partnership Program offers Business Partner and Management Company members exclusive perks and branding opportunities. You must be a current CAI-NJ Business Partner or Management Company member in good standing to qualify for the 2024 Partnership Program. This Program offers 3 different exclusive levels of participation: Ultimate, Elite, and Premier. Each level was designed to offer specific benefits. Choose which level serves the needs of your company best. Ultimate and Elite levels are currently full/reserved for continuing partners from 2023. If you are new to the program or would like to upgrade, you may register and be added to our wait list. WHY PARTICIPATE? The Partnership Program provides cost effective, guaranteed exposure including enhanced advertising placements, increased brand recognition and special acknowledgment on signage at events and CAI-NJ publications. Your company will receive cost effective, prominent exposure in New Jersey’s community association industry, exclusive to 2024 Partnership Program participants. CAI-NJ offers opportunities for you to promote your business and make connections. Partnership demonstrates a high level of support for the chapter and helps execute programs for its members.

EXCLUSIVE NEW 2024 PERKS!! ULTIMATE • Award Recognition at the Annual Awards Celebration • Meet the Ultimate Partner Social Spotlight • Website Tab Drop Down Listing • Superbowl Partnership Pool ELITE • Superbowl Partnership Pool • Website Tab Drop Down Listing PREMIER • Superbowl Partnership Pool • Website Tab Drop Down Listing • Logo included on Online Service Directory Listing

MARKETING & BRANDING OPPORTUNITIES

ULTIMATE

ELITE

PREMIER PARTNER ($3,850)

PARTNER PARTNER ($7,150) ($11,000)

CAI-NJ WEBSITE

Company Name on CAI-NJ’s Website Company Logo on CAI-NJ’s Website with Link Homepage Tab with Dropdown Recognition Recognition in Community Trends ® Magazine Company Listing With Contact Info in Every Issue Logo Placement on Front Inside Cover Monthly COMMUNITY TRENDS ® MAGAZINE CAI-NJ ONLINE SERVICE DIRECTORY Listing with Logo on CAI-NJ’s Online Service Directory CAI-NJ PRINT MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY B&W Ad in the Print Membership Directory Full Color Ad in the Print Membership Directory Additional Copies of the Membership Directory Awards Celebration Conquer + Connect Dennis R. Casale Memorial Golf Outing Beach Party Pre-Conference Networking Reception Winter Break Party EVENT TICKETS

X

X X

X X

X

X

X

X X X

X

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X

2

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1 T ickeT

2 T ickeTs 1 T ickeT 1 F ouRsome

4 T ickeTs 1 T ickeT 1 F ouRsome

1 R ecepTion T ickeT

1 T ickeT 1 T ickeT 1 T ickeT

2 T ickeTs 2 T ickeTs 2 T ickeTs

4 T ickeTs 4 T ickeTs 4 T ickeTs

Conference & Expo Standard Booth Unlimited Booth Representatives ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO

X

X X

List With Name & Company/Community Prior to Events List With Name, Company/Community & Email Address After Events NETWORKING EVENT ATTENDEE LISTS (EXCLUDING CONFERENCE & EXPO) Super Bowl Partner Pool Golf Tee Sponsorship Golf Green Sponsorship Ultimate Award Recognition at Annual Awards Celebration Exclusive Ultimate Networking Event Exclusive Door Prize at Winter Break Party & 20 Extra Door Prize Tickets to Distribute at Event One (1) Email Blast Advertisement with Website Link Sent out to Entire Membership One (1) Exclusive Meet the Ultimate Partner Social Spotlight Option to Purchase One (1) Exclusive Email Blast Advertisement with Website Link Sent Out to Entire Membership Logo and Link on the CAI-NJ’s E-Newsletter Once a Month Ultimate Partners will Receive One (1) Additional Seat on a Committee in a Given Year ADDITIONAL MARKETING/BRANDING SPONSORSHIP

X

X X

X X

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2024 PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM REGISTRATION FORM

GENERAL INFORMATION: (PLEASE PRINT) Company: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Primary Contact: __________________________________________Email: _________________________________________________ Alternate Contact: _______________________________________Email: ________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ City: _____________________________________________________ State: _______________ ZIP: __________________________ Phone: ____________________________ Alternate Phone: ____________________________ Fax: ___________________________ 2024 PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM RATE: PREMIER $3,850 ELITE $7,150 [2023 Elite Partners only.*] ULTIMATE $11,000 (2023 Ultimate Partners only.**) *I am interested in being added to the wait list for ELITE PARTNERSHIP if space becomes available.

**I am interested in upgrading to ULTIMATE PARTNERSHIP if space becomes available. (Must be a 2023 Premier or Elite Partner to qualify. Elite Partners receive first priority.)

BILLING PREFERENCE: (CHECK ONE) Annually

Semi-annually (CREDIT CARD ONLY) - I authorize my final balance to be automatically charged on 6/3/24.

PAYMENT: (CHECK ONE) 1. PAY BY CHECK: Check Enclosed for FULL PAYMENT (MADE PAYABLE TO CAI-NJ) Mail completed form with check to: CAI-NJ Attn: Partnership Program 500 Harding Road, Freehold, NJ 07728 2. PAY BY CREDIT CARD: Please call Robin Surgent at 609-588-0030 to provide credit card information over the phone.

Please note: Cardholder acknowledges receipt of goods and/or services in the amount of the total shown hereon and agrees to perform the obligations set forth in the cardholder’s agreement with issuer. For semi-annual payments, cardholder grants permission for the above to be charged half of partnership total on or before deadline of Friday, December 8, 2023 and remaining balance to be charged on June 3, 2024. Cardholder further acknowledges that the Partnership Program is for a one-year term and the split payment installment is only an accommodation for participants in the program and that the program commitment is for an entire calendar year. TERMS & CONDITIONS: I affirm that I am authorized to make the above Partnership commitment on my company’s behalf. I have read and understand the Partnership Parogram is sold as a benefit package, not individually and agree to pay in accordance with my selected billing preference and payment option listed above. Partnership refunds or cancellations cannot be made after the contract is signed as potential partners may be turned away as a result of your acceptance. I understand that this form becomes a contract when signed. Please note that by signing up for the 2024 Partnership Program, CAI-NJ holds the right to make changes to benefits, events and programming throughout the course of this agreement. I understand and accept that changes to offerings during the contract period by CAI-NJ that are deemed necessary by the chapter to accommodate acts of god, pandemics, governmental orders, etc. may be made at any time, at the sole discretion of CAI-NJ, including but not limited to virtual substitutions in lieu of in-person events. I understand that if I or anyone from my company is no longer a member in good standing or violates either the suitcasing and or the code of conduct, at the discretion of the CAI-NJ Board of Directors, this contract may be rescinded without refund. Name: _________________________________________________________________ Date: _______________________ Signature (Authorizing Officer): ________________________________________________________________ ___________

REGISTER NOW! APPLICATIONS & PAYMENT DUE BY DECEMBER 8, 2023.

Questions? Contact Robin at (609)588-0030 or email: Robin@cainj.org

TIGHTENING Financial Controls in the Post-Pandemic World By Ed Kwiatkowski, CPA, Ed Kwiatkowski, CPA, LLC

T he COVID-19 pandemic shook up many industries’ practices and procedures; some of these changes were for the better and will remain in place, while others only existed for the duration of the pandemic. Common interest community associations (CICs) were no different. Sure, there was still an annual budget, landscaping, snow removal, a management company, and an annual audit, among other things. However, were accounting policies changed to better suit the pandemic world? Did your association allow manag ers to sign checks? Did it fast-track specific invoice approval procedures as vendors were requesting expedited payments to pay their employees? Usually, the end of each year is an excellent time to review all policies and procedures for efficiency and to ensure strong controls. As we approach the end of the pandemic and transition into a more “normal” world, we should also look to strengthen any controls that were relaxed during the pandemic and begin to tighten financial controls back to pre-pandemic standards or to even improve them over what they were before. Below are several procedures that should be reviewed for stricter financial controls: 1) Documentation: All financial requests should be supported with proper documentation. Deposits (other than maintenance assessment

checks) should have proper backup kept on file. This includes the municipal services reimbursement check, which generally lags a year behind to ensure each year is received. But most important are the expenses from the association checkbooks. Vendors should submit invoices on company letterhead and address these directly to the association (not the management company) with a specific location of work performed in the community. Check requests for miscellaneous expenses and reimbursements should be accompanied by receipts, e-mails, account histories, etc. 2) Approval: Every financial request should be approved by a member or members of the board. With many electric systems in place now, the property managers usually have first approval of an invoice or check request so that they can review and code it appropriately according to the annual budget. However, payment should not be processed until a board member has ultimately reviewed and approved that invoice or check pay ment request. With a proper paper trail that contains support ing documentation, you will be prepared for a potential audit or should you need to review a discrepancy. 3) Dual signatures on checks: Check signatures are an example of a financial control that has become highly lax over the course of the pandemic. CONTINUES ON PAGE 28

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