Author: Matt McEwan

What are Robert’s Rules?

Posted on by Matt McEwan

What are Robert’s Rules?

Posted on by Matt McEwan

Meetings are a vital part of organizational communication. It’s where decisions are made, plans are formed, and ideas are exchanged. However, without structure, meetings can become chaotic and unproductive. This is where Robert’s Rules of Order come in, providing a framework for conducting meetings efficiently and democratically. But what are Robert’s Rules and where did they come from? In this article, we’ll answer that question and look at the pros and cons of using Robert’s Rules of Order for your meetings.

Who is Robert?

The “Robert” in Robert’s Rules of Order is Henry Martyn Robert, a U.S. Army officer. Faced with the task of leading a church meeting in 1863 and not finding suitable guidelines, Robert was inspired to develop a standard set of rules for orderly and fair meetings. His initial rules were published in 1876 as “Robert’s Rules of Order,” and they have been a cornerstone of parliamentary procedure ever since.

The Genesis and Evolution of Robert’s Rules

Robert’s motivation was to bring order to the chaos he witnessed in meetings. He compiled and adapted various parliamentary procedures to create a comprehensive and adaptable set of guidelines. Since its first publication, Robert’s Rules have evolved through several editions, reflecting changes in society and the way organizations operate.

The Staying Power of Robert’s Rules of Order

The longevity of Robert’s Rules can be attributed to their adaptability and fairness. They provide a democratic structure where every member’s voice can be heard, and decisions are made transparently. This universality makes Robert’s Rules as relevant today as they were over a century ago.

Common Users of Robert’s Rules

Robert’s Rules are used by a wide range of organizations, including non-profits, corporations, governmental bodies, and community groups. They’re especially prevalent in places where democratic decision-making is paramount and where order and efficiency are necessary for handling complex issues and diverse opinions.

Pros and Cons of Robert’s Rules

Pros:

  • Structure and Order: They bring a clear structure to meetings, making them more efficient and productive.
  • Equal Participation: All members have an equal opportunity to contribute, fostering a democratic environment.
  • Clarity in Decision-Making: Votes and decisions are made transparently and systematically.

Cons:

  • Complexity: For newcomers, Robert’s Rules can seem daunting due to their detailed nature.
  • Potential for Misuse: In some cases, individuals knowledgeable in the rules can use them to manipulate meeting outcomes or stifle dissent.
  • Rigidity: In smaller, less formal groups, the strict adherence to rules can hinder open, creative discussions.

Robert’s Rules and Meeting Minutes

While Robert’s Rules of Order can provide a structured approach to conducting meetings, it’s important to note that understanding these rules is not essential for writing effective meeting minutes. Meeting minutes serve as a formal record of what transpires during a meeting, and their primary goal is to document key discussions, motions, votes, and decisions accurately and objectively.

For inexperienced minute-takers, familiarity with Robert’s Rules may be beneficial, as it could offer guidance on the procedural aspects of meetings. However, the focus for minute-takers should be on capturing the essential elements of the meeting clearly and concisely, regardless of their knowledge of Robert’s Rules.

Conclusion

The journey of Robert’s Rules of Order from their genesis to their current status is a testament to the vision of Henry Martyn Robert. Organizations across the spectrum, from volunteer-run community groups to governmental bodies and corporate boards, have adopted Robert’s Rules to streamline their proceedings. For these organizations, Robert’s Rules play a crucial role in ensuring meetings are democratic, orderly, and effective. As meetings continue to be a pivotal part of organizational operations, the importance of both Robert’s Rules and accurate minute-taking remains paramount.

What are Robert’s Rules? – Additional Resources

The best resource for readers looking to delve deeper into Robert’s Rules of Order is the official book itself, currently in its 12th edition titled Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (RONR). This book provides the most comprehensive and updated set of guidelines for parliamentary procedure as envisioned by Henry Martyn Robert.

For those who are new to the subject and seeking a more approachable introduction, Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised In Brief is a shorter, more digestible companion to the full manual. It is designed to help users conduct meetings, participate in them effectively, and move business forward in an orderly manner.

Additionally, some websites and organizations help answer the question, “What are Robert’s Rules?”. The National Association of Parliamentarians, for example, offers resources, training, and workshops on Robert’s Rules. These can be especially helpful for individuals who prefer interactive learning or need specific questions answered.

Can Radical Transparency Work for Associations?

Posted on by Matt McEwan

Can Radical Transparency Work for Associations?

Posted on by Matt McEwan

A can’t-miss session at the 2023 CSAE Annual Conference in Montreal

Speaker
Matt McEwan
VP, Sales & Marketing – Minutes Solutions Inc.

Date
November 10, 2023, at 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. 

Room
Rue McGill

As the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) annual conference in Montreal draws closer, we’re excited to spotlight a compelling session on our agenda, put on by our own Matt McEwan: “Can Radical Transparency Work for Associations?”

With the continuous evolution of digital technology and the growing demand for accountability in the corporate world, the concept of radical transparency has become a hot topic of discussion. But can such an audacious idea find a home in the world of associations?

Imagine a world where employees and members of your association are privy to the core of its operations – from staff salaries to daily communications. At first glance, it may sound chaotic, perhaps even a bit alarming. But dive deeper, and a vast sea of possibilities emerges from such openness.

Radical Transparency: A Boon or a Bane?

This question forms the essence of this session. It’s not just about exposing the underlying mechanics of your association. It’s about questioning the traditional norms, exploring the uncharted territories of management philosophy, and gauging the effects of such transparency on collaboration, trust, employee satisfaction, and overall operational efficiency.

What if lifting the curtains on your association’s strategic objectives and financial metrics leads to greater member engagement? What if it results in unbiased, clear-cut communication that enhances collaboration and accountability? On the flip side, are there dangers of discontentment, insecurity, or even exploitation?

Real-World Case Studies and Critical Analysis

The session will not just remain confined to theoretical musings. Be prepared to journey through the history of this concept as we uncover real-world examples of organizations that embraced radical transparency in its different forms. Learn from their success stories, understand the challenges they faced, and draw valuable lessons that can be applied to the unique landscape of associations.

While the benefits of radical transparency, like improved trust and reduced biases, might be evident, the potential risks and pitfalls, especially in the context of associations, need to be addressed critically.

Why Attend This Session?

For association leaders looking to innovate, enhance member trust, and create a more inclusive environment, understanding the dynamics of radical transparency is crucial. This session promises to do the following:

  • Provide a balanced perspective, weighing the pros and cons.
  • Equip attendees with actionable insights and strategies.
  • Foster interactive discussions, allowing leaders to share their apprehensions and aspirations.

Whether you’re contemplating introducing radical transparency in your association, or you’re simply intrigued by the concept, this session will offer a spectrum of insights and information. It will empower you to make informed decisions about how transparent your association should be and how to navigate the complexities that come with such a decision.

Add It to Your Calendar!

Montreal’s vibrant energy coupled with CSAE’s promise of enriching content makes this conference an unmissable event. “Can Radical Transparency Work for Associations?” is bound to be a highlight, so make sure you mark it on your itinerary.

We’re ready to challenge, inspire, and most importantly, engage with all association enthusiasts. 
Are you?

Session Information
Human minute taker

The Human Touch in Minute Taking

Posted on by Matt McEwan

The Human Touch in Minute Taking

Posted on by Matt McEwan

In today’s digital era, technology has revolutionized how businesses operate, streamlining processes and increasing efficiency. Professional services across various industries have embraced automation, artificial intelligence, and cutting-edge tools to optimize their operations. Among these services, minute taking, which involves documenting critical meetings and discussions, has also witnessed technological advancements. While technology has made minute taking faster and more accurate, the question arises: does the human touch still matter in this age of automation?

In this blog post, we will explore the essential role of the human touch in minute taking and why organizations should value the unique contributions of human minute takers. There is no doubt that minute taking is part science and part art, but what portion of this does the human touch play? We will delve into the irreplaceable aspects that human involvement brings to this indispensable practice, paving the way for deeper understanding and personalized approaches.

1. Understanding Context and Nuances

Minute taking is not merely about recording words spoken during meetings. A human minute taker brings a unique ability to comprehend the context, identify essential points, and capture the subtle nuances that technology might overlook. By understanding the flow of discussions, emotions, and non-verbal cues, human minute takers can provide more comprehensive and accurate meeting minutes that capture the true essence of the gathering.

2. Customization for Client Needs

Every client and organization is different, with varying preferences for formatting, content, and level of detail in their meeting minutes. Human minute takers excel in tailoring their approach to meet these unique client needs. They can adapt their writing style, prioritize specific points of interest, and ensure the final minutes align precisely with the client’s requirements, fostering a deeper sense of collaboration and satisfaction.

3. Real-Time Adaptability

During fast-paced meetings or complex discussions, the ability to adapt in real-time is crucial. Human minute takers can promptly adjust their note-taking methods based on the meeting’s pace and intensity, ensuring no crucial information is missed. This adaptability is invaluable in capturing accurate and relevant data that could be easily overlooked by automated systems.

4. Quality Assurance and Expertise

While technology can assist in data processing and organization, it still requires human oversight to ensure accuracy and quality in the final deliverables. Human minute takers possess expertise in proofreading, fact-checking, and fine-tuning meeting minutes to meet the highest standards of professionalism.

Conclusion

The human touch remains an indispensable aspect of minute taking, even in the age of technology. While automation and AI offer incredible speed and efficiency, they cannot replicate the deep understanding, customization, adaptability, and empathy that human minute takers bring to the table. The synergy of technology and the human touch creates a powerful partnership that elevates the quality of minute taking and enhances the overall experience and quality of work. In professional services, where client satisfaction and trust are paramount, embracing both technology and human expertise in minute taking ensures a winning combination.

Corporate Secretary

The Role of a Corporate Secretary: Key Responsibilities

Posted on by Matt McEwan

The Role of a Corporate Secretary: Key Responsibilities

Posted on by Matt McEwan

Behind every successful and well-organized corporation stands a crucial figure, often operating behind the scenes – the Corporate Secretary. Often referred to as the “guardian of corporate governance,” the Corporate Secretary plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth functioning and compliance of a company. In this blog post, we will explore the key responsibilities and contributions of this essential role and shed light on the indispensable contributions they make to the corporate world.

1. Keeper of Corporate Records

One of the primary responsibilities of a Corporate Secretary is to maintain accurate and up-to-date corporate records. This includes essential documents such as meeting minutes, shareholder records, board resolutions, and other vital corporate documentation. The Corporate Secretary ensures that all records are organized, easily accessible, and compliant with legal requirements.

2. Governance and Compliance

Corporate governance is the backbone of any successful organization. The Corporate Secretary is responsible for ensuring that the company operates in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. They play a key role in facilitating board meetings, overseeing corporate governance practices, and ensuring that decisions are made in line with legal requirements and the company’s best interests.

3. Board Support and Communication

As a liaison between the board of directors and the company’s stakeholders, the Corporate Secretary plays a critical role in facilitating effective communication. They assist in organizing board meetings, preparing meeting agendas, and ensuring that board members receive all necessary information and materials ahead of time. Their contributions ensure that board members are well-informed to make strategic decisions.

4. Annual General Meetings (AGMs)

The Corporate Secretary is instrumental in planning and organizing the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). They work closely with shareholders, manage proxy voting processes, and prepare the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth AGM that complies with legal requirements.

5. Risk Management and Disclosure

Transparency is paramount in the corporate world, and the Corporate Secretary plays a vital role in ensuring accurate and timely disclosure of relevant information to regulatory authorities and stakeholders. They assist in risk management by monitoring and reporting on compliance issues, providing valuable insights to the board and senior management.

Conclusion

The role of a Corporate Secretary is multifaceted and central to the effective functioning of a corporation. Their contributions extend far beyond maintaining records; they are instrumental in upholding corporate governance, facilitating effective communication between stakeholders, and ensuring legal compliance. The Corporate Secretary serves as a crucial link between the board of directors, management, shareholders, and regulatory authorities, fostering transparency, trust, and ethical practices.

In today’s complex and ever-evolving business landscape, the Corporate Secretary’s expertise and commitment to upholding corporate standards are indispensable. By shouldering the responsibility of governance, compliance, and efficient communication, the Corporate Secretary enables companies to thrive and adapt to the dynamic demands of the corporate world.

As we acknowledge the pivotal role of the Corporate Secretary, let us appreciate and celebrate their significant contributions to corporate success, recognizing them as the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring that the wheels of corporate governance turn smoothly, ethically, and in the best interests of the company and its stakeholders.

Why Minute Taking is So Vital for Professional Associations

Posted on by Matt McEwan

Why Minute Taking is So Vital for Professional Associations

Posted on by Matt McEwan

In the world of professional associations, effective governance, transparency, and accountability are the cornerstones of success. As decision-makers, these organizations are entrusted with shaping policies, charting ambitious goals, and ensuring the collective voice of their members is heard. Amidst this dynamic landscape, one essential practice stands out as a powerful catalyst for progress – minute taking. In this digital age, where information flows at unprecedented speeds, minute taking may appear as a traditional practice. However, as we shall discover, it is far from obsolete; rather, it serves as a steadfast guardian of institutional memory and a key driver of effective leadership.

Why minute taking is imperative to any professional association:

1. Legal Compliance and Risk Mitigation:

   – Accurate and comprehensive meeting minutes serve as legally binding documentation of decisions made within the association.

   – By maintaining detailed records, professional associations demonstrate compliance with laws and regulations, reducing the risk of legal disputes or challenges.

2. Transparent Decision-Making and Accountability:

   – Well-documented minutes provide a transparent account of discussions and decisions made during meetings, ensuring accountability among association members and leaders.

   – Members can refer back to previous minutes to understand the rationale behind decisions and hold leaders responsible for their actions.

3. Continuity and Succession Planning:

   – As leadership roles rotate within the association, meeting minutes become vital resources for new leaders to understand past discussions, decisions, and ongoing initiatives.

   – Minutes facilitate smooth transitions and effective succession planning, ensuring the association’s objectives remain on track.

4. Communication with Members:

   – Meeting minutes serve as concise and easily accessible updates on important matters and decisions for members who were unable to attend meetings.

   – This enhances member engagement by keeping them informed and involved in association activities.

5. Evidence for Grant Applications and Fundraising:

   – Clear and well-documented minutes demonstrate responsible management, strengthening the association’s credibility when applying for grants or seeking fundraising opportunities.

   – Potential donors and funding agencies appreciate organizations that maintain transparent records, enhancing the association’s chances of securing financial support.

Conclusion

Minute taking plays a vital role in the success and sustainability of professional associations. By maintaining detailed and accurate records, these organizations ensure legal compliance, transparent decision-making, and accountability among members and leaders. Meeting minutes facilitate effective communication with members, support succession planning, and strengthen the association’s position when seeking grants or fundraising opportunities. Moreover, they serve as valuable evidence in legal situations and prevent misunderstandings or conflicts, fostering a cooperative and engaged association community. As a fundamental practice, minute-taking cements the foundation for strong governance and efficient operations within professional associations.

Minutes Solutions Inc.

Minutes Solutions takes the minutes for ASAE and CSAE boards and committees. As a professional third-party minute taking company, Minutes Solutions provides prompt, accurate, and objective minutes for associations in every field. Since 2014, the company has provided minute taking services for over 40,000 meetings for more than 3,000 organizations across North America. Its cohort of over 100 professionally trained minute takers in the U.S. and Canada undergoes rigorous training in industry best practices that help make association meetings more effective and allow staff to focus on the meeting and what they do best.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

DC Condo Act

DC Condo Act: A Guide for Community Managers

Posted on by Matt McEwan

DC Condo Act: A Guide for Community Managers

Posted on by Matt McEwan

Community managers play a vital role in overseeing the operations and maintenance of condominium communities in Washington, DC. To effectively manage these communities, it is essential for community managers to have a thorough understanding of the legal framework that governs condominiums in the area. This article aims to provide community managers with an overview of the DC Condo Act, highlighting its key provisions and implications for their role in managing condominiums in the nation’s capital.

1. An Overview for Community Managers: The DC Condo Act, also known as the Condominium Act of 1976, is a comprehensive set of laws that govern the creation, sale, and management of condominiums in Washington, DC. Familiarizing yourself with the act ensures compliance and facilitates effective community management.

2. Responsibilities Towards Unit Owners: As a community manager, you are responsible for fostering a positive living experience for unit owners. The DC Condo Act specifies the rights and responsibilities of unit owners, including their right to occupy and use their unit, participate in the decision-making process, and access common areas and amenities. You must ensure these rights are respected while enforcing any rules or regulations outlined in the condominium’s governing documents.

3. Condo Association Governance: The DC Condo Act establishes the association’s role in administering and enforcing the condominium’s bylaws and rules. As a community manager, you may be responsible for facilitating board meetings, assisting with financial matters, and ensuring compliance with the act’s provisions. While the Act does not outline minute-taking requirements, it emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and effective governance within condominium communities. Maintaining accurate minutes helps fulfill these objectives by providing a clear record of events and facilitating communication with unit owners and other stakeholders.

4. Dispute Resolution and Compliance: The DC Condo Act provides mechanisms for resolving disputes and ensuring compliance within the condominium community. It is essential for community managers to be familiar with these provisions and encourage alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. In cases where legal action is necessary, understanding the Act’s guidelines will enable you to assist affected parties in seeking appropriate remedies.

5. Staying Informed and Adapting: The DC Condo Act has been subject to amendments and updates over the years to address the changing needs of condominium communities. Community managers must stay informed about any revisions to the Act, attend educational seminars or workshops, and consult legal professionals when needed. By staying up-to-date, you can ensure effective management that aligns with the latest legal requirements.

Conclusion

A thorough understanding of the DC Condo Act is essential for community managers overseeing condominium communities in Washington, DC. By familiarizing yourself with the Act’s provisions and implications, you can effectively fulfill your responsibilities and support the smooth operation of these communities. By adhering to the guidelines of the DC Condo Act, community managers play a crucial role in creating a harmonious living environment while upholding the legal framework governing condominiums in the nation’s capital.

(Note: Community managers should consult the DC Condo Act directly and seek legal advice to ensure accurate interpretation and compliance with condominium laws in Washington, DC.)

Minutes Solutions

Minutes Solutions is a professional, third-party minute-taking company that specializes in prompt, accurate, and objective minutes for community associations. Since 2014, the company has provided minute taking services for over 40,000 meetings for more than 3,000 communities and organizations across North America, including the Community Associations Institute. Its cohort of over 100 professionally trained minute takers in the U.S. and Canada undergoes rigorous training in industry best practices that help protect community associations and instil confidence in residents, allowing community managers to focus on operational responsibilities.

Maryland HOA laws

10 Laws & Regulations Maryland HOA Managers Should Know

Posted on by Matt McEwan

10 Laws & Regulations Maryland HOA Managers Should Know

Posted on by Matt McEwan

As a homeowners’ association (HOA) manager in Maryland, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the laws and regulations that govern HOA operations. Adhering to these laws not only ensures the smooth functioning of the HOA but also helps maintain positive relationships with residents and promotes a harmonious community environment. This article will discuss 10 laws and regulations that every Maryland HOA manager should be familiar with.

HOA Laws and Regulations in Maryland

  1. Maryland Homeowners Association Act (HOA Act): The HOA Act serves as the cornerstone of Maryland’s HOA governance. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the association and its members, covering areas such as bylaws, assessments, architectural guidelines, board meetings, and enforcement of rules. Understanding this Act is fundamental for effective HOA management.
  1. Open Meetings Act: Maryland’s Open Meetings Act mandates that HOAs hold open meetings where members have the right to attend and observe. This law ensures transparency in HOA decision-making processes and allows homeowners to stay informed and engaged with the association’s activities and allows them to inspect the minutes of the board meetings.
  1. Maryland Condominium Act (Condo Act): For HOAs that include condominium units, familiarity with the Maryland Condominium Act is essential. This act covers various aspects of condominium governance, including unit owner rights, common elements, maintenance responsibilities, and financial management.
  1. Fair Housing Act: The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on protected classes such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status. HOA managers must adhere to fair housing guidelines and ensure that their community’s policies and practices do not discriminate against any individual or group.
  1. Maryland Reserve Study Requirements: Maryland law requires HOAs and housing cooperatives to conduct reserve studies at least once every 5 years. These studies assess the long-term maintenance and replacement needs of common elements within the community. HOA managers must ensure that reserve studies are carried out as required and that sufficient reserve funds are established to meet future obligations.
  1. Maryland Stormwater Management Act: HOAs in Maryland are subject to stormwater management regulations to control runoff and minimize pollution. Managers should be familiar with these requirements to implement appropriate stormwater management measures within the community.
  1. Maryland Consumer Protection Act: The Maryland Consumer Protection Act safeguards homeowners from unfair and deceptive trade practices. HOA managers must understand their obligations under this law to ensure that all interactions with homeowners and service providers are conducted ethically and transparently.
  1. Debt Collection Laws: HOA managers need to be well-versed in Maryland’s debt collection laws when pursuing delinquent assessments or fees. Understanding the proper procedures, notification requirements, and limitations will help managers navigate the collections process effectively and legally.
  1. Architectural Guidelines and Covenants: HOA communities often have architectural guidelines and covenants in place to maintain aesthetic standards and protect property values. HOA managers should be well-acquainted with these guidelines and ensure their consistent enforcement while handling architectural requests and modifications.
  1. Maryland Real Property Code: The Maryland Real Property Code governs various aspects of property management, including leases, evictions, liens, and easements. HOA managers should familiarize themselves with the relevant provisions to appropriately address property-related issues and comply with the law.

Conclusion

Compliance with the laws and regulations governing HOAs in Maryland is paramount for effective community management. By being well-versed in the laws and regulations outlined in this article, HOA managers can ensure legal compliance, foster positive homeowner relationships, and create thriving and harmonious communities where residents can enjoy the benefits of shared living.

Minutes Solutions

Minutes Solutions is a professional, third-party minute-taking company that specializes in prompt, accurate, and objective minutes for community associations. Since 2014, the company has provided minute taking services for over 40,000 meetings for more than 3,000 communities and organizations across North America, including the Community Associations Institute. Its cohort of over 100 professionally trained minute takers in the U.S. and Canada undergoes rigorous training in industry best practices that help protect community associations and instil confidence in residents, allowing community managers to focus on operational responsibilities.

Virginia State Capitol building where condo and HOA laws are passed

Navigating Virginia’s Condominium & HOA Laws

Posted on by Matt McEwan

Navigating Virginia’s Condominium & HOA Laws

Posted on by Matt McEwan

As a community manager in Virginia, your role involves understanding and navigating Virginia’s condominium and HOA laws. Two key pieces of legislation central to your work are the Virginia Condominium Act and the Virginia Property Owners’ Association Act. Let’s delve into these two pieces of legislation to help you better fulfill your role as a community manager.

The Virginia Condominium Act

The Virginia Condominium Act, established in 1974 and continually revised, provides a comprehensive framework for creating, managing, and dissolving condominium associations. The following are some salient features:

Governing Documents: The Act stipulates the contents required in the condominium instruments, including the declaration and bylaws. These documents, along with the rules and regulations, provide the blueprint for managing the condominium association.

Management and Operation: The Act grants condo associations the powers necessary for effective management. It details procedures for electing the executive board, the responsibilities of the board, and guidance on handling conflicts of interest.

Financial Management: The Act has strict guidelines on maintaining reserve funds, levying assessments, and handling delinquent owners. It also mandates an annual audit of the financial statement by an independent Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for condo associations above a certain size.

Insurance: The Act details insurance requirements, specifying the kinds of insurance the association must carry, such as hazard and liability insurance.

Resale of Units: It requires associations to provide a resale certificate containing vital information to prospective buyers. This certificate should include a statement of any lien or encumbrances, details on insurance coverage, pending suits, and unpaid assessments, among others.

The Virginia Property Owners’ Association Act

The Virginia Property Owners’ Association Act, applicable to homeowners’ associations (HOAs), shares similarities with the Virginia Condominium Act but has its unique nuances.

Governing Documents: Like the Virginia Condominium Act, this legislation regulates the contents of the declaration and bylaws that govern the association’s management.

Disclosure Packet: One critical difference is the need for an association disclosure packet in an HOA. This packet is required for prospective homebuyers and contains information similar to the resale certificate in condominiums.

Architectural Standards: The Act provides guidance on maintaining and enforcing architectural standards, a common issue in many HOAs.

Meetings: The Act contains detailed requirements for conducting meetings, notice periods, and voting procedures to ensure fair and transparent governance.

Association Records: The Act stipulates the records that the association must maintain, such as meeting minutes, and guidelines for homeowners accessing these records.

As a community manager, it’s vital to understand these laws’ nuances to manage your community effectively. Staying informed about the legislation can help you avoid pitfalls and ensure a well-run, compliant, and harmonious community. However, these summaries only scratch the surface of these two comprehensive pieces of legislation. For specific legal advice, always consult a qualified attorney well-versed in Virginia condominium and property association law.

Remember, your role as a community manager extends beyond just understanding the legal landscape. You are a mediator, a planner, a communicator, and an advocate for your community. The better you understand the legal framework you operate within, the more effectively you can serve your community.

To learn more about the specifics of Virginia’s condominium and HOA laws, you can visit: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/

Minutes Solutions Inc.

Minutes Solutions is a professional, third-party minute-taking company that specializes in prompt, accurate, and objective minutes for community associations. Since 2014, the company has provided minute taking services for over 40,000 meetings for more than 3,000 organizations across North America, including the Community Associations Institute. Its cohort of over 100 professionally trained minute takers in the U.S. and Canada undergoes rigorous training in industry best practices that help protect community associations and instil confidence in residents, allowing community managers to focus on operational responsibilities.