5 New Years Resolutions for HOA Managers
/
As the New Year begins, HOA managers and boards should start thinking about what 2023 has in store. Here are some important resolutions that are essential for a well running homeowners association.
1. Recruit Board Members
Each HOA manager needs to focus on recruiting and finding people who are interested in community affairs. One way to approach them is with an invitation to join an HOA board. Another good idea is to put a notice in the newsletter that they are accepting new members. Also, ask current board members to accept new people.
2. Planning Committee
Events are an integral part of an active community. Put together a committee that will create events that all residents will participate in. Set up an advanced schedule for the year. Propose a budget for yearly events and plan promoting the events.
3. Community Safety
Plan and implement safety measures in the community. Once a year, preferably at the beginning of the year. Conduct a safety check on all community lights, door locks, pool lights, fencing and community signage. Make sure all safety measures have been taken to keep residents safe.
4. Community Maintenance
Make sure all pool equipment, playground equipment, tennis court and all recreational amenities are functioning properly. Make necessary repairs to the common buildings, grounds and areas. Make a new year plan and budget for lawn maintenance, seasonal planting and curb appeal for the community.
5. Review and Update Governing Documents
As part of the HOA New Year’s resolutions, a board should consider reviewing and amending old documents. Doing so will allow these documents to reflect the times and environment today, as outdated documents can put associations in a bind. As new technologies continue to emerge, HOA boards will likely need to do this every year to avoid getting left behind the times. Refresh yourself on the procedures for holding annual meetings and Board elections, the types of architectural changes that are allowed, and the procedure for getting changes approved by the Board or the architectural control committee. Also, it can be a good idea to consider whether the rules governing the use of common areas need updating.
Even the simplest New Year resolutions can keep you on track and make being an association Board member a more enjoyable experience. Why not try one or more of these resolutions to make 2023 a positive and successful year for you and your Board?
