How to Be Heard at Your HOA Meeting
Homeowners’ associations are businesses, so their board meetings should be considered as business meetings and run accordingly. However, many states have no statutory requirements that certain parliamentary procedures must be followed at board meetings. So, while some HOAs follow Robert’s Rules, many don’t. This leaves some homeowners who faithfully attend their association’s board meetings feeling unheard and unimportant.
For the association member who is feeling overlooked, here are a just few simple tips to help you properly voice your concerns, opinions, and input at your next HOA board meeting:
Let Them Know You Are There
It may seem simple, but because HOA boards are usually very careful to follow their set agenda at meetings, if you fail to sign in, it’s likely you won’t get any time to speak. Signing in when you arrive guarantees speaking time and allows the board the opportunity to follow up with you, if needed, after the meeting has adjourned.
Better yet, contact the board prior to the next scheduled board meeting and submit your questions or concerns before the meeting; this will allow the board time to carefully consider and address your inquiry.
Keep it Short and Sweet
Be aware of and adhere to any time limit that is set by the board for homeowners to speak. Typically, homeowners are given 2-3 minutes on the floor.
Remember, everyone on the board is a volunteer, and keeping your remarks succinct and to the point shows that you value everyone’s time and respect the process. You are more likely to have your concerns or suggestions taken seriously if they don’t have to worry about cutting you off or keeping you from taking time from others.
Again, if you feel you need more time, consider putting what you’d like to say in writing and submitting it to the board for further review.
Patience is a Virtue
It’s inevitable that sometimes there will be more homeowners who wish to speak than time allows for. If you’re too far down the list, you may need to wait until the next meeting, which can be frustrating. If you do get a chance to speak, know that it will likely take even more time to reach a solution, especially if the board needs to discuss the subject before taking a vote. When it comes to earning the trust and attention of your HOA board, a little patience goes a long way.
Be Prepared
HOA boards respect and appreciate members who are invested in bettering the community. However, be careful that you don’t turn each meeting into a complaint forum. It’s perfectly fine to bring concerns to the board, but it’s important to also bring constructive ideas for resolution. Remember, the board is willing to listen to complaints, and even more willing to listen to solutions!
Show Support
One of the best ways to make yourself heard is to be actively engaged in your community. If you attend board meetings regularly to stay informed, rather than show up only when you have a complaint, you’ll develop a good relationship with board members and ensure that they recognize and respect your opinions when it comes to making changes in the community.
Related: Moving Out of Your HOA
Above all, remember that you are a valuable member of your association and deserve to be heard. By following these simple tips, you can help make the most of board meetings and be sure that your voice is heard!
