Overcoming Decision Making Paralysis
There is nothing more frustrating for members, managers, and even homeowners than a Board that is collectively stuck in the mud, endlessly spinning their wheels deeper in the rut of indecision. Rest assured, it is a common condition. If it is not a recognized medical disorder, it should be! Perhaps it is a large construction […]
Board Tip: “Tabling” an Agenda Item
The spectrum of how thoroughly a Board of Directors follows parliamentary procedure and applies Robert’s Rules of Order at their meeting varies greatly. Most associations are pretty informal and use the typical “motion, second, discussion, majority vote” on decision making matters. That might be the extent of it. Some are quite lax and don’t even […]
Audit & Tax Season
Did you know that Community Associations, as registered non-profit corporations in the eye of the State of Minnesota, are required to file Federal and State taxes? It is also important to be aware of any requirements of your governing documents for an annual financial review or audit. If you are governed under MCIOA (Minnesota Common […]
The Balance of Board Conflict
Hopefully you have a cohesive and harmonious Board that works collectively to accomplish the duties, goals and tasks of your Association. Many Boards, however, have levels of inner conflict. Conflict can be both good and bad. Minor disagreements on how to response to a homeowner request can lead to some constructive dialog. To a contrary […]
Contract Basics
Perhaps one of the most challenging, intimidating, and without a doubt most significant actions of the Board of Directors is engaging in contracts. Of course, assistance in navigating the abyss of contract language is one of the roles your community manager/management company can play. (And if it is a large or complicated contract, it is […]
Meeting Room Layout – It’s Worth Some Thought
One of the most overlooked components of running an interruption-free meeting is the layout of the meeting room. Remember – a Board meeting is a BOARD meeting. It is not a Membership/Homeowner meeting. Homeowners may attend to observe or to address the Board during an allocated Open Forum however, the Board meeting is a place […]
The Basics of the Board
When you buy into an Association, the first thing to understand is you are now living in what is commonly referred to as a planned community. A big part of understanding this concept is realizing there needs to be governance of said community, as well as business orchestration of the community as a registered non-profit […]
Board Meetings are Not Brainstorming Sessions
Put simply – a regular meeting of the Board of Directors is a business meeting to make decisions and document approvals. That’s it. Period. So many Boards and Associations fall into the habit of treating a Board meeting as the opportunity to brainstorm topics, collectively review bids, debate homeowner concerns, etc. It’s natural. After all, […]
Types of Association Meetings
As always, each Association will vary according to the Governing Documents. There are three common types of Association meetings. It is important to understand the differences and functions they serve. Board Meetings – the most common type of meeting that many are familiar with. This is the regular business meeting of the elected Board of Directors. While […]
Sharper Management’s Joel Starks Joins CAI-MN Board of Directors
Joel Starks, partner and head of business development at Sharper Management, has joined the Board of Directors for Community Associations Institute’s Minnesota chapter (CAI-MN). The 2013-2014 Board of Directors were seated at the association’s annual meeting held at International Market Square on May 9, 2013. More than 175 industry professionals were present at the announcement. […]