I'm a Volunteer
“Good evening, my name is Joe, and I’m your new president of the Board of Directors. George, here, is our Vice President, Jenny, our Treasurer, Louie, our Secretary, and the Directors are Gene, Sue, and Hank.
I’d like to take two minutes or less to address this assembly before the official meeting begins, if I may.
First, I’m your neighbor. I came here tonight with an open mind and a clear head. I left my personality at the door.
I’d like our meetings to be held according to Robert’s Rules, a copy of which I’ve given to the Vice President and ask that he bring it along with him to all our meetings. You’re all welcome to borrow it any time before or after each meeting.
Second, I’m a volunteer, as is every Board member. We were elected by the membership for one purpose – to help take care of our community business, period. We are not here to dictate to anyone. Our duty is to abide by the association documents, its rules and regulations, and state law – just like you.
However, having said that, we hope to be assisted by you as well. We won’t be able to do it alone. I hope you will attend the Board meetings, volunteer when there is a need for a committee or organization of a social event or whatever emergency may arise.
Third, on the agenda tonight, under ‘New Business’, you will note we will be discussing roofs. At that time, we will not be discussing a neighbor’s encroaching crabgrass, unleashed pet, or the like. Each member will be afforded their chance to speak briefly during the ‘Open Forum’ section of the agenda to introduce other concerns. That would be the best time to bring up your issue and to perhaps schedule it as an item for the very next meeting agenda. The agendas will be posted on our bulletin board in the clubhouse in advance of each meeting and you may also ask any Board member for a copy before any meeting.
We all have things to do, people to see, places to go, lives to live, so I expect to come here, attend to association concerns and adjourn. I do not expect to hear tirades, put-downs, disparaging remarks, criticisms, accusations, allegations, or rumors.
I expect the Board to be polite, answer questions as best they can, and seek help from our management company should we need it. We will rely heavily on their experience and knowledge. Management will help us with our goals.
Last, I want you all to understand that any assessments, violation fees, or maintenance fees that are expected from you will also be expected from the Board. Our intent is not to be personal; we’re all in this together.
So, please, help us make this community, our neighborhood, the best looking, and most valued property available, with a harmonious environment for all – a place we will be proud to call home.
Now, I hereby call this Board meeting to order…”
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