Over 2.3 million people in Colorado are members of a community association, including homeowners associations.
If you've recently purchased a home governed by an HOA, you'll want to prepare yourself for going to HOA meetings.
Read on for everything you need to know about HOA meetings in Colorado Springs.
1. Homeowner Participation
HOA meetings are usually open to all homeowners. Homeowners should be allowed to attend, observe, and participate in discussions during designated periods, like homeowner forums.
Homeowners often have the opportunity to speak on the agenda during designated times, such as an open comment period. They should follow guidelines for speaking.
Colorado law requires proper notice for HOA meetings. The notice must include the date, time, location, and agenda of the meeting. Homeowners must have adequate time to plan for attendance.
Some associations are professionally managed. This helps ensure that HOA meetings in Colorado Springs run smoothly, and everyone gets to say their piece.
2. Meeting Decorum
HOA meetings follow a structured format with an agenda. Homeowners are expected to adhere to meeting decorum.
When speaking, address the board president or chairperson. Wait for the chair to recognize you before speaking, and direct your comments to the entire board.
Keep your comments concise and to the point. This allows others to speak and ensures that the meeting progresses smoothly.
If there is a designated time for homeowner comments or questions, wait for your turn to speak. Avoid speaking out of turn or interrupting others.
If time limits for speaking are established, adhere to them. This allows everyone an equal opportunity to contribute.
While it's natural to feel passionate about certain topics, try to keep your emotions in check to maintain a respectful and productive atmosphere.
Listen to what others are saying and consider their viewpoints. Engage in constructive dialogue rather than trying to dominate the conversation.
If the board enters into an executive session, understand that this is a closed-door discussion. Wait for the public session to resume before rejoining the meeting.
3. Going Through the Paperwork
There's a lot of procedure that goes into any HOA meeting. Meeting minutes from the previous meeting are often reviewed and approved during the current meeting. This ensures accurate documentation of discussions and decisions.
If the HOA has committees (e.g., architectural and landscaping), their reports and recommendations might be presented during meetings.
HOA meetings may involve discussions of major contracts or projects. Homeowners can learn about upcoming initiatives and voice their opinions.
HOA meetings often include financial reports and discussions about the budget. Homeowners can gain insights into how their fees are being used and raise questions about financial matters.
If it's time for board elections, there will be more to do. Candidates will present their statements, and homeowners cast their votes for new board members, following procedures outlined in the HOA's governing documents.
HOA Meetings in Colorado Springs: Now You Know
HOA meetings in Colorado Springs aren't as difficult to navigate as you might have thought. Now that you know some of the rules, you'll be able to jump in.
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