Say What?!

Just moved and just paid $60 to join an HOA association that is listed by the State of Michigan LARA since 1950.

I cant see the Articles of Inc or bylaws since it’s too old and the state does not put those documents on line. One guy and his wife run the show. Treasurer changes every year.

I requested financial reports for all attendees of the annual meeting next week, and was told that “that’s not normally done or required.”

No board meetings are held. The VP got into a fight with the Board Pres and quit.

Any suggestions on hoe to educate these entrenched people ? We have a 4 acre park on a lake and mooring spots in a lagoon. There is liabily ins for one million but no board insurance. This is a Voluntary membership association.

Sue

You have the right to association financial records. Typically an association will present a financial summary/overview at its Annual Meeting.

You have no rights to any financial information concerning/between a fellow owner and the association.

Thanks for the responses.

They are trying to pass themselves off as a loosey-goosey association and plead ignorant of membership rights within a non profit corporation.

Sorry, yes you can see them. It simply isn't convenient.
If the items are filed with the State, write them and ask how you can obtain a copy.
Otherwise, ask the Association for a copy.


Talked about a lot on this forum.
If others do not want to run, then those who are willing to run will be the ones who serve.

How many are on the board? Two people in a five person board run the show because the other board members allow it.


I don't know the requirements for Michigan.
Although my Association provides copies at the annual meeting, there is no requirement for this.
Technically, it's a courtesy and it does cost money for the copies.

You likely have a right to see the financials, but not obtain a free copy.

My suggestion: Explain that you understand this can be a financial burden to an Association with low fees. Then offer to pay for the copies (your expense) so everyone can see them.


Unless you are on the board, the only fact you could state is that no open board meetings are held.


Happens.


Without serving on the board in a non-combative way, you probably aren't going to really educate those who already believe they know how things should be done and have been doing it that way. Keep in mind, you are wanting to make changes. Most people don't like change.

If you serve on the board, you need to go slowly in the education process.


I expect you mean that there is no D&O insurance.
Applicable laws and your governing documents probably specify that that volunteers are indemnified by the Association. Without D&O, the Association is simply self insured. Might be what they can afford.


Being voluntary, to me, means not everyone pays assessments. Only those who choose to be members of the Association. The whole issue may simply be limited finances.

Again, tread lightly. A big fight within the Association can cause others to exercise their option and not join making a larger financial issue.

Good!