Homeowner Leader Mixer April 18, 2023
Bob Spillar Westpark Maintenance District
SPECIAL THANKS TO THESE SPONSORS:
In a packed conference room, homeowner board members from around Orange County gathered to discuss the hot topics facing their communities. Along with Ms. Farrah Esquer, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, CEO / President of Cardinal Property Management, AAMC, the diverse group, each with unique perspectives and concerns, created a meeting that promised to be an important opportunity for sharing and learning.
The meeting began with a review of the aging infrastructure of some HOAs. Ms. Esquer shared some of the experiences she and her team have gone through in helping HOAs determine how to fund the projects. She discussed spending reserves, special assessments if reserves were insufficient to cover the costs, and even the acquisition of loans. This led to an open discussion amongst the Board members, who shared concerns about the costs and logistics of maintaining and upgrading roofs, sidewalks, and common area amenities. They had additional questions that explored the options for securing funding and managing construction projects. Lessons learned from successful infrastructure improvement projects were shared, and strategies for coordinating with local government agencies were discussed.
Short-term rentals took the next spotlight during the meeting. Many board members expressed concerns about the rise of platforms like Airbnb and its impact on their communities. Noise complaints, increased traffic, and potential violations of community rules were discussed, and board members and Ms. Esquer shared strategies for regulating short-term rentals, such as implementing rental restrictions, updating community rules, and enforcing penalties for non-compliance. The complexities of navigating legal and regulatory issues related to short-term rentals were highlighted, and everyone discussed potential solutions to address these challenges.
Other topics addressed included financial management, community engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Best practices for budgeting, reserves, assessments, and collection of dues to ensure the financial health of their HOAs were shared. Strategies for promoting community engagement, fostering inclusivity, and addressing discriminatory practices or incidents were shared, emphasizing building a sense of community and maintaining open lines of communication among homeowners.
Left to right: Bob Spillar of Westpark Maintenance District, Farrah Esquer, CMCA,
AMS, PCAM of Cardinal Property Management, AAMC, Rob Strichart of Seaside Village Town Homes Association, Russell Carpe of Pierhouse Condominium Association, Jerry Tingwall of East Lake Village Association, Janet Newcomb of Springhurst Townhomes HOA and Brian Rusaw of Seaside Village Town Homes Association.
Overall, the meeting was a great success, as the homeowner board members came together to discuss the hot topics facing their community and brainstorm ways to address these challenges. By working collaboratively and staying informed, they are confident they can maintain a thriving and resilient HOA in California. Ms. Esquer summarized it the best when she told the group: “Going into the event, I was not sure what to expect. I found the conversation and sharing of best business practices constructive and enlightening. While I was there to provide my expertise and guidance to the attendees, I also gained insight on the challenges they face as HOA volunteer leaders within their communities. It was a great event for HOA volunteer leaders to connect with those outside their communities.”
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