Homeowners associations (HOAs) are required to hold regular meetings to discuss association business and vote on changes. A majority of these meetings are open to members – and they are encouraged to attend – yet there may still be a low turnout. Getting members to show up is something that HOAs often struggle with. Kuester Management Group has released a statement to the press regarding ways the HOA can stimulate more engagement and better attendance from homeowners.
“Although members may not be the ones making the daily decisions for the HOA, they do play an important role in helping to shape the association and how it is governed,” says Bryan Kuester, President of Kuester Management Group. “Homeowner feedback and input matters. It is good for the board to hear new ideas and differing opinions. Plus, the more informed and involved homeowners are, the more it can help curb problems.”
One way that the board can help drive interest is by explaining the importance of achieving a quorum, says Kuester. Whether quorum is a majority or a certain percentage, if it is not reached, an official meeting cannot be held. This means that no voting can take place, and the meeting must be rescheduled. When the HOA is eager to move forward with projects or implement changes to the rules and regulations, this can slow everything down. Educate members about the importance of their participation in helping the HOA to be more productive, which ultimately benefits them.
Put a standard structure and clear expectations in place for meetings as well. Ensure that homeowners know exactly what to expect and that meetings will be run effectively. Everyone’s time is important, so staying on track means shorter, more productive meetings. If members know that things will be taken care of quickly and decisions will be made, they are more likely to attend.
“Furthermore, try to plan meetings at a time that is most convenient for the majority of members,” says Kuester. “You will never please everyone, but if shifting meetings from Saturday mornings to Monday evenings means more people can attend, then be open to making this switch. It can be helpful to survey the community to gain a better understanding of when the best time to hold meetings would be. Don’t forget to give plenty of notice as well so that homeowners can add it to their schedule and coordinate babysitters for children if needed.”
The HOA board can also increase interest by promoting opportunities for homeowners to get involved, be it through committees or volunteering for special events. Some members may not realize that they do not have to be a board member in order to create change and support the community. In addition, make sure members understand how to go about presenting ideas or concerns to the board and speaking at meetings.
“Everyone needs to work together in the best interest of the community as a whole,” says Kuester. “Without homeowners, there would be no HOA. Their voice and opinion matter and can help the board to make more informed decisions.”
Kuester partners with HOAs throughout the Carolinas to support day-to-day operations, administrative tasks, communications, meeting planning, vendor management, and much more.
For more information, contact Kuester today at www.kuester.com.
ABOUT:
Kuester Management Group, a division of Kuester Companies, works to protect property values and enhance the quality of life in each of its managed communities. Providing a full range of association management services, Kuester Management Group has worked to foster strong, resilient, and unified communities across North and South Carolina. The company is proud to offer on-site property managers, all zealous for building strong communities meant to stand the test of time.
More information is available at www.kuester.com or @KuesterCompany.
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Website: www.kuester.com