Tag: minutes solutions

VIDEO PODCAST: Unlocking the Secrets Behind Effective Meeting Minutes

Join Matt McEwan of Minutes Solutions, and Steve Roderick and David Velasco of JGS Insurance, as they dive into the realm of community association meetings in episode 159 of Community Association Car Chat.

In this episode, they discuss the challenges of minute taking for community associations and the benefits of professional minute takers. Matt walks you through the process of utilizing our minute-taking services and highlights the key qualities that make a great minute taker.

Additionally, he delves into the differences between minute takers and stenographers, providing valuable insights to help you navigate your options effectively.

Ready to enhance the efficiency of your community association meetings? Watch the video to gain valuable insights and learn how to start putting your meeting minutes to work.

Minutes Solutions Inc.

At Minutes Solutions Inc., we don’t just document meetings; we transform them. With a wealth of experience specializing in professional minute-taking for community associations, our team stands ready to elevate your meetings to new heights. 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 50,000 meetings for more than 4,000 organizations across North America. Its cohort of over 150 professionally trained minute takers in Canada and the U.S. undergoes rigorous training in industry best practices that help make board meetings more effective and allow staff and board members to focus on their core responsibilities.

Engaging Communication

A Community Association board’s responsibility extends beyond ensuring fiscal responsibility or overseeing routine maintenance. The crux of its role lies in fostering transparent, effective communication with residents. It serves as the cornerstone of a vibrant community.

Communication is the linchpin of community engagement. When residents are informed, they feel included, recognized, and valued, which cultivates a sense of unity and mutual respect. This elevates their sense of belonging and makes them more receptive to board decisions. In contrast, a lack of transparency or ineffective communication fosters mistrust and suspicion. Homeowners might feel alienated or misinformed, leading to discord, misinformation, and often, unnecessary conflicts.

Decode and Disseminate

Financial updates, imminent projects, changes to community policies, and critical protocols must be conveyed with clarity and transparency. Regular monthly or quarterly updates are standard. However, in the event of emergencies or significant changes, immediate communication is vital.

While traditional methods like newsletters or bulletin boards still hold value, digital platforms such as community websites, emails, and social media groups can be more immediate and far-reaching. Recognizing the demographics and preferences of one’s community can help in devising a balanced, multi-faceted approach to communication.

Build Bridges, Not Walls

Engaging residents is a two-way conversation. Boards can harness town hall meetings, suggestion portals, and online polls to gauge the pulse of the community. Dedicated listening sessions, where board members simply listen to homeowners, can also be invaluable.

While it’s inevitable to encounter challenging interactions, it’s essential to address these with a blend of empathy, professionalism, and patience. When an issue escalates, consider mediation as a practical option to ease the tension and provide a resolution.

The hallmark of an effective board isn’t the absence of errors but the sincerity in acknowledging them. Honesty paired with a robust corrective strategy can mend bridges and restore faith.

Be Consistent and Encourage Participation

Fostering trust and engagement extends beyond periodic updates. Demonstrating consistency in actions, being accountable, and upholding the highest standards of integrity are vital. Encouraging active participation through committees or volunteer roles can amplify the sense of shared responsibility and ownership within residents.

Board meeting minutes are often underutilized as a tool for reinforcing trust. Minutes can offer insights into the board’s deliberative processes, challenges faced, and the rationale behind decisions; these minutes can significantly enhance transparency.

Boards that prioritize this will not only lead with efficiency but also with the trust and support of their community.

This article from Minutes Solutions was originally published in the November/December 2023 edition of the Community Association Institute’s Common Ground Magazine.

Navigating Snowbird Season: A Guide for Florida Community Managers

Florida’s allure as a winter escape attracts over 800,000 seasonal residents, known as “snowbirds,” each year from November to April. Their presence poses both challenges and opportunities for community managers in various associations across the state. This guide aims to assist community managers in facilitating a smoother transition for both full-time and seasonal residents during snowbird season.

Understanding Snowbirds

Snowbirds, primarily retirees, significantly impact the state’s economy and community life. Mainly arriving from Canada during winter, they spend up to six months in Florida, avoiding harsh winters to maintain healthy habits and enjoy outdoor activities. Meanwhile, with the rise of remote work, some younger professionals are opting for short-term stays, seeking flexible vacation rentals within Condominium Owners Associations (COAs) and Homeowners Associations (HOAs), while retirees often purchase properties in these associations.

The increased resident population during snowbird season can strain community resources and sometimes disrupt permanent residents. Effectively managing a community during this time necessitates a delicate balance of preparation, communication, and addressing the distinct needs of both resident groups.

  1. Encourage Active Participation

Establish trust by keeping owners well-informed about financial matters and encourage their active involvement in virtual board meetings. Their active involvement in board or committee meetings not only gives them a voice in decision-making but also keeps them abreast of community developments.

2. Communication Is Key

Use various channels to keep residents informed about community events, maintenance schedules, financial matters, and any policy or procedural changes. Establish an efficient system to verify and update mailing addresses, ensuring that vital documents are not mistakenly sent to residents’ northern homes during snowbird season.

Update your community website regularly, distribute newsletters, and use social media platforms to stay in touch with snowbirds throughout the year. This can help minimize the challenges snowbirds might face when transitioning back to Florida. Consider creating a dedicated section on your community website or a monthly newsletter specifically tailored to snowbirds, offering information on local events, health services, and any other pertinent details they may find helpful during their stay. Use the time when homeowners are on-site to educate them about year-round community issues, enhancing their readiness to manage interactions with renters and leasing agencies effectively.

3. Seasonal Services

Adapt community services by adjusting hours, providing additional security measures, and organizing special events to accommodate snowbirds. Collaborate with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts or services to snowbird residents, fostering a sense of community and goodwill.

Ensure that maintenance schedules are communicated clearly, and services such as landscaping and pest control are managed efficiently to maintain the community’s appeal throughout the snowbird season.

4. Social Integration

Navigate the delicate balance between year-round residents and snowbirds by embracing the vibrant energy that winter months bring to your community and fostering social integration. Organize ‘snowbird socials,’ engaging mixers, potlucks, or community events that encourage unity. Additionally, create clubs or interest groups catering to the diverse interests of both demographics, breaking down social barriers and building a more cohesive community. This proactive approach not only welcomes snowbirds but also strengthens the sense of community among all residents.

5. Use Technology as a Tool

Leverage technology to streamline communication and community management. Implementing community apps or online platforms can facilitate easy access to information, event updates, and maintenance requests. Encourage residents to use these tools, making it convenient for snowbirds to stay connected with the community even when they’re not physically present.

6. Emergency Preparedness

Ensure emergency preparedness by reviewing and updating evacuation plans, sharing emergency contact information, and conducting drills to ensure that all residents are familiar with safety protocols. Consider designating community ambassadors or volunteers who can assist new arrivals in understanding emergency procedures.

7. Managing Budgets with Snowbirds in Mind

Florida’s charm comes with challenges like corrosive saltwater and storms that increase operational costs for homeowners, condominium owners, and community associations. Community managers should focus on effective financial management and budget wisely. Craft a comprehensive budget considering rising costs for maintenance and amenities during snowbird season. This prevents surprises and ensures financial stability, benefiting both year-round and seasonal residents.

Additionally, given soaring insurance premiums, ensure adequate coverage by regularly reviewing policies, consulting experts, and prioritizing essential coverages to protect the community effectively.

Conclusion

Successfully managing a community during snowbird season requires a proactive and inclusive approach. By understanding the unique needs of seasonal residents, maintaining clear communication, adapting services, fostering social integration, leveraging technology, prioritizing emergency preparedness, and managing finances efficiently, community managers can create a harmonious and thriving environment for both full-time and snowbird residents alike.

How Professional Minute-Taking Can Help

Navigating snowbird season demands precise documentation and timely action. As an industry expert, Minutes Solutions has worked with thousands of condominiums and HOAs across North America since 2014. With a team trained in the nuanced requirements of community associations, our professional minute takers ensure accurate and comprehensive records of every crucial meeting detail. Our commitment to swift delivery ensures that community managers receive minutes promptly, aiding them in efficiently addressing action items identified during meetings.

Trust Minutes Solutions to be your partner in comprehensive and timely documentation to support you in steering your association with precision and efficacy.

Good Governance: The Vital Role of Community Association Boards

Introduction

Effective governance is essential for the success and well-being of condominiums and homeowners’ associations. The board of directors, as the governing body of these communities, plays a crucial role in promoting good governance. In this article, we will explore the key responsibilities of the board of directors and how their actions contribute to fostering transparency, accountability, and a thriving community environment.

Upholding the Governing Documents

The board of directors is responsible for upholding and enforcing the governing documents of the community association, such as the bylaws, declarations, and covenants. By ensuring compliance with these documents, the board establishes consistency, fairness, and predictability within the community.

Decision-Making and Policy Development

A fundamental role of the board is making decisions and developing policies that guide the community. The board promotes good governance by engaging in thoughtful deliberation, considering the interests of all residents, and adhering to legal requirements. Clear documentation of discussions and decisions through accurate minutes is essential for transparency and accountability.

Financial Stewardship

Managing the community’s financial affairs is a critical responsibility of the board. This includes creating and managing budgets, collecting assessments, and overseeing financial reporting. The board promotes trust and good governance by exercising fiscal responsibility, conducting regular audits or reviews, and ensuring transparency in financial matters.

Enforcing Rules and Regulations

The board of directors is tasked with enforcing the rules and regulations of the community. This includes addressing violations, resolving disputes, and maintaining a harmonious living environment. Consistent enforcement, done fairly and transparently, fosters a sense of equity among residents and contributes to good governance.

Communication and Transparency

Open and effective communication is vital for good governance. The board should regularly communicate with residents, providing updates, sharing important information, and seeking input. Transparent communication channels, such as newsletters, community websites, and town hall meetings, help build trust and engage residents in community matters. The minutes of board meetings play an integral role in serving as a record of communication and decisions made, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Community Engagement

Encouraging homeowner engagement and participation is key to a vibrant and cohesive community. The board should actively seek input, involve residents in decision-making processes, and create opportunities for involvement through committees or volunteer activities. Engaged homeowners contribute to the community’s success and enhance good governance.

Engaging Professional Expertise

At times, the board may need to seek professional expertise to address complex legal, financial, or maintenance issues. Engaging qualified professionals can provide valuable guidance and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Documenting these engagements in the minutes reinforces the board’s commitment to informed decision-making and responsible governance.

Conclusion

The board of directors plays a pivotal role in promoting good governance within community associations. By upholding governing documents, making informed decisions, managing finances responsibly, enforcing rules fairly, fostering open communication, encouraging homeowner engagement, and seeking professional expertise when needed, the board establishes a foundation of transparency, accountability, and community well-being. Accurate and comprehensive minutes provide a historical record of board actions, enhancing transparency and ensuring that the community’s interests are upheld. Through these efforts, the board contributes to a thriving community where residents can enjoy a harmonious and fulfilling living experience.

Bolstering Your Board: Tips for Supporting Nonprofit Boards

In the realm of nonprofit leadership, addressing the intricacies of board dynamics is essential. Nonprofit boards encounter a spectrum of challenges, from recruitment hurdles to strategic misalignments between boards and staff, and other pitfalls that can impede organizational growth. 

Navigating these challenges requires a strategic approach to achieve effective board governance.

In this power-packed webinar, Matt McEwan of Minutes Solutions, Jill Krumholz of RealHR Solutions, and Barbara O’Reilly of Windmill Hill unravel the complexities of nonprofit board management. They share valuable insights on building strong relationships, strategic planning, fostering collaboration and a culture of open communication, as well as leveraging technology for effective board support.

This webinar is not just a discussion; it’s a roadmap for nonprofits to overcome hurdles, enhance board effectiveness, and, ultimately, drive impactful change. Whether you’re a seasoned nonprofit professional or just starting, the insights shared by the panelists offer actionable strategies to elevate your organization. 

To access the full webinar, simply follow the link provided.

Minutes Solutions Inc.

Minutes Solutions is your trusted ally, dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and accountability of nonprofit organizations. As a professional third-party minute taking company, Minutes Solutions provides prompt, accurate, and objective minutes for nonprofit boards across various fields. Since 2014, the company has provided minute taking services for over 45,000 meetings for more than 3,000 organizations across North America. Its cohort of over 125 professionally trained minute takers in Canada and the U.S. undergoes rigorous training in industry best practices. This commitment ensures that nonprofit boards can streamline their administrative processes, allowing them to focus on their core mission.

Can Radical Transparency Work for Associations?

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?

The Evolving Role of Governance in Asset Management

The asset management industry, with its multifaceted operational dynamics and the sheer volume of financial transactions, has long been under the microscope of various stakeholders. And at the center of it all lies governance. It’s a term that has grown and evolved, reflecting shifts in industry standards, regulatory changes, and global economic paradigms. Let’s delve into how the role of governance in asset management has changed over the years, the catalysts driving these shifts, and the direction it’s taking as we chart a course into the future.

1. Governance Then and Now

Traditionally, governance in asset management was largely perceived as a mechanism for oversight and control. The primary objective was to prevent impropriety and ensure legal compliance. Today, while these elements remain crucial, governance has broadened to encompass facets such as ethical investment decisions, stakeholder engagement, transparency, and the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors.

2. Drivers of Change

Several factors have reshaped governance in the asset management industry:

  • Regulatory Evolution: Post-financial crisis regulations, such as the Dodd-Frank Act in the U.S. and MiFID II in Europe, have ramped up requirements, emphasizing transparency, client protection, and risk management.
  • Stakeholder Expectations: The modern investor is more informed and demands greater transparency and accountability. Institutional investors, in particular, have emphasized the need for robust governance structures. Many firms now rely on professional minute-taking services to help manage their significant minute-taking needs and provide the transparency and communication their stakeholders have come to expect.
  • The Rise of ESG: The global momentum towards responsible investing has made ESG factors central to governance. Asset managers are increasingly held accountable not just for financial returns but also for their broader impact on society and the environment.
  • Technological Advancements: Digital transformation has brought about tools that enable more stringent oversight, better risk assessment, and proactive fraud detection.

3. The Future Landscape of Governance

The trajectory of governance in asset management suggests a few key trends for the future:

  • Greater Integration of ESG: With increased global emphasis on sustainability, ESG considerations will become even more integrated into investment decisions and portfolio management.
  • Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: Asset managers will likely adopt more proactive approaches to engage with stakeholders, using platforms and channels that facilitate two-way communication.
  • Tech-Driven Governance: As technology continues to advance, AI and machine learning will play a more significant role in predictive risk analysis, fraud detection, and even in guiding ethical investment decisions.
  • Global Harmonization: As asset managers operate in an increasingly globalized world, there will be a move towards harmonizing governance standards across borders to facilitate smoother cross-border transactions and collaborations.

Conclusion

Governance in the asset management industry is not a static entity; it’s dynamic, reflecting the complex interplay of global events, stakeholder expectations, and technological advancements. For industry professionals, understanding these shifts is not just about compliance; it’s about steering their organizations toward a future that’s resilient, ethical, and positioned for long-term success.

As the realm of asset management continues to grow in complexity, robust governance becomes not just a back-office function but a strategic imperative, shaping decisions and defining the very ethos of the institution.

How Professional Minute-Taking Can Help

As governance in the asset management industry evolves, there’s an amplified need for precise, reliable, and seasoned minute-taking services. As the global leader in professional minute-taking, Minutes Solutions offers unmatched support for firms navigating this dynamic landscape. Our expansive team of meticulously trained minute-takers and editors equips us to manage the high volume of meetings that asset managers and financial service firms often conduct. Given our industry-specific experience, our team excels in documenting technical subject matter with clarity and precision. As governance protocols continually shift, partnering with Minutes Solutions ensures unwavering integrity and accuracy in your records.

WEBINAR: Hybrid Board Meetings Are Here to Stay

As associations look for ways to improve meeting efficiency and effectiveness post-pandemic, hybrid board meetings that combine in-person and virtual attendance are becoming a permanent fixture. However, while hybrid meetings offer advantages, they also come with potential challenges.

In this on-demand webinar, Matt McEwan of Minutes Solutions, Dave Bergeson of Association Management Center, Jordan Castel of Onboard, and Eileen Murray of the American Epilepsy Society share best practices for creating engaging and purposeful hybrid meetings, structuring agendas effectively, and leveraging technology for seamless execution.

Discover expert advice on engaging virtual attendees and creating an inclusive environment that fosters productivity and collaboration. Whether you’re a board member, association leader, or simply interested in the evolving landscape of board meetings, this webinar provides invaluable insights and practical tips to help you shape the future of your association’s board meetings.

To access the full webinar, simply follow the link provided.

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.

3 Steps to More Efficient Condo and HOA Board Meetings

Community association board meetings are the primary forum for directors to make formal decisions that affect the community. With so many moving parts and topics to discuss, running effective meetings that make the best use of everyone’s time can be challenging. Here are three strategies for running efficient meetings.

  1. Define the Goal

A clear meeting goal helps keep discussion on track and ensure decision-making is aligned with the association’s overall objectives. A well-defined purpose allows attendees to come prepared with meaningful information or ideas. A goal can build a sense of community and promote decisions that represent the association’s needs and priorities. 

  1. Add a Consent Agenda to the Meeting Agenda

As you build your meeting agenda around what the gathering should achieve, make one of the items the consent agenda. A consent agenda is a list of routine, uncontroversial items that the board votes on as a single proposition. This allows directors to rule on several undisputed topics quickly without discussion, freeing up more time for subjects that require in-depth conversations. Typical topics include: minutes of previous meetings; informational reports or updates; routine financial transactions that directors have already vetted, such as straightforward maintenance or repair work; and formal approval of proposals that were considered thoroughly and were informally agreed to at a previous board meeting. 

Distribute background materials for both the meeting and consent agenda in advance so that board members have time to consider the issues and arrive at the meeting ready to contribute. In particular, participants should resolve concerns or questions about consent agenda items before they meet; they should agree to remove any topics that still need clarification during the meeting and add them to the general meeting agenda for separate discussion. A small number of perfunctory queries about consent agenda items are permissible, but subjects needing more deliberation should have designated time on the broader meeting agenda.

At the meeting, the facilitator should briefly review the consent agenda items; if there are no objections, the board can then vote to approve the entire consent agenda as a single item.

  1. Have a Strong and Active Chair

A capable chair enforces any time limits on the meeting agenda and helps the group reach consensus by professionally and respectfully mediating disputes that may arise during the meeting. A good chair prevents conflicts from escalating and keeps discussion focused on important issues.

Takeaway

Well-run condo and HOA board meetings can have a significant and positive impact on the daily lives of residents. By defining a goal for each meeting, including a consent agenda with the meeting agenda, and having a strong and active chair, associations can improve the productivity and effectiveness of their board meetings and, ultimately, enhance the entire community.

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 instill confidence in residents, allowing community managers to focus on operational responsibilities.

PANEL: Strategies for Shaping the Culture of Your Association

Associations have long played a vital role in various industries, providing platforms for collaboration, networking, knowledge sharing, and advocacy on behalf of their members. However, in order to remain relevant, increase member engagement, and attract a younger generation, associations must continuously assess their culture and ensure it aligns with the shared values of the organization.

In this on-demand webinar, Ashley Perkins of Minutes Solutions and Michael Hoffman of Gather Voices provide practical tips and strategies for developing a positive association culture that fosters growth and engagement. They also delve into the importance of effective communication channels and tactics that facilitate collaboration and transparency within associations.

Recognizing that a strong and inclusive culture positively impacts all areas of an association, Perkins and Hoffman stress the significance of active listening. By actively listening to their members, associations can gain valuable insights, measure their culture, gather feedback, and implement changes that lead to the creation of a culture that everyone can be proud of.

Gain expert advice on developing a thriving association culture, learn strategies for soliciting member feedback, and discover the transformative power of creating a culture where every individual feels valued and empowered. To access the full webinar, simply register by clicking this button:

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.