Help, I need some advice!

My grandfather is the legal owner of the unit in which I reside in, which I have been living in for the past 15+ years. I do not pay nor owe rent to my grandfather, my only responsibility is to take care of the utilities, association dues and property tax. He's been out the country for 15+ years and will indefinitely be out of the country due to his physical and mental state.

The current board elected president says that because my name is not recorded as the deed holder with the County Recorders Office as a legitimate owner, I am considered as a "tentant" and therefore I do not have the right to participate in the association meetings nor the right to vote.

Can someone verify what the current board elected president saying is true? Is there some sort of a document in which I can have a relative, who has been assigned power of attorney over my grandfather's property sign a document stating that I am authorized to vote on his behalf without having power of attorney assigned to me? Any help in this matter woulod be greatly appreciated.

As regards to voting - my thoughts:

You should be able to represent your grandfathers interests by voting his proxy at a meeting. The proxy must be signed by him as the owner of record or by his legally authorized representative (power of attorney).

You need to find out if your association permits voting by proxy and what the process is to obtain a proxy form in advance of any meetings where voting will take place.

Freddie - you need to find out what your grandfather's plans are for ALL his affairs in the States.
Does he have an attorney? Perhaps he/she can get this proxy for you.

Also, what if he should die? Have you planned for the future?

Freddie,

Since proxies are allowed, have your grandfather sign a statement giving you his proxy. Then you can attend the meetings, participate in the discussions and vote on his behalf.

For a more permanent solution, have him give you power of attorney for all matters involving the Association, including representation at all meetings/votes.

Tim

Freddie,

I looked it up. Per Davis-Sterling, they are correct. The following link to Davis-Sterling.com is provided:

Who May Serve as Proxy

Tim

Most CC&R's refer to the homeowner or their authorized agent (sometimes called a representative) as being able to attend meetings and speak, this won't help you with the vote problem but it should at least get you in the door at meetings.

Freddie - see the Membership section on that link.

If there is a trust, and you are one of the trustees, you MAY have some rights.

See if you can be put on the deed. That would help, also.