Even though we live in an association, you might be surprised how many of our neighbors—owners and renters alike—don’t really understand the fundamental nature of common-interest communities. And we know that many others, including the media and government officials, lack a true understanding of the community association (or condominium) concept.

Community Associations Institute (CAI), a national membership organization that represents the best interests of common-interest communities like ours, developed 10 basic principles that answer three essential questions: What is the basic function of a community association? What are the essential obligations and expectations of homeowners? What are the core principles that should guide association leaders?

We’re confident you’ll recognize our community while reading these principles.

1. Associations ensure that the collective rights and interests of homeowners are respected and preserved.

2. Associations are the most local form of representative democracy, with leaders elected by their neighbors to govern in the best interest of all residents.

3. Associations provide services and amenities to residents, protect property values and meet the established expectations of homeowners.

4. Associations succeed when they cultivate a true sense of community, active homeowner involvement and a culture of building consensus.

5. Association homeowners have the right to elect their community leaders and to use the democratic process to determine the policies that will protect their investments.

6. Association homeowners choose where to live and accept a contractual responsibility to abide by established policies and meet their financial obligations to the association.

7. Association leaders protect the community’s financial health by using established management practices and sound business principles.

8. Association leaders have a legal and ethical obligation to adhere to the association’s governing documents and abide by all applicable laws.

9. Association leaders seek an effective balance between the preferences of individual residents and the collective rights of homeowners.

10. Association leaders and residents should be reasonable, flexible and open to the possibility—and benefits—of compromise.

Fundamentals can be downloaded at www.caionline.org/governance/fundamentals.pdf. For more information about Community Associations Institute, go to www.caionline.org.

As the holiday season is upon us, we want to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday and a happy, healthy New Year!

We are grateful to have you as part of our community and look forward to continuing to serve you in the coming year.

May your holidays be filled with peace, happiness, and cherished moments.

The vast majority of homeowners’ associations rely on volunteers to provide the ideas and manpower to stage activities and events. 

The success of any association depends upon the members getting involved.  Owners in community associations tend to allow that group known as “them” or “they” to operate the association, attend meetings, and make important community decisions.  Who is “them” or “they”?  They are homeowners, just like you.  Volunteering to serve on the association Recreation Committee is a great way to become involved and contribute to your community.

If there is an activity or event you would like Box Factory to put on for its members, present the idea to the Board of Directors and be prepared to follow through in the planning and implementation of the idea.  Get your neighbors and friends to help.

You can make a difference.  Don’t let the community be overcome by apathy.  Get involved!  The possibilities are endless.

“Balance your right to dissent with your responsibility to contribute.”  – author unknown

1. Attend meetings.  Don’t just show up if you have a problem or complaint.
2. Accept nomination to serve on the Board or appointment to any committee.
3. Describe the association in positive terms.
4. Be prepared when asked to contribute; plan details of an event, coordinate with other owners and affiliates.
5. Contribute whatever time you have available for the benefit of the community.  Become a dependable, constructive member of the association.
6. When attending Board meetings, remember that the only time you should address the Board is during the Open Forum session.  Don’t interrupt during the Business meeting.
7. Keep an open mind and look for the benefits to the community whenever a new program is being initiated.
8. Don’t criticize the Board, committee members or other volunteers.
9. Read your newsletter and correspondence from the association and management company in order to understand what is going on and why decisions are being made.  Introduce yourself to new owners.  Let them know that our community is a great place to live and that you look