When a city asks an association to sign an easement agreement for a public project, such as street widening, sidewalk work, or other municipal improvements, a board should remember that the document is drafted to protect the city’s interests, not those of the association. Because an easement affects association land and can create long-term obligations, […]
In today’s digital age, online platforms and social media have become effective tools for communication and community engagement. These forums can be an easy and efficient method for boards to communicate with owners. In these instances, the board controls the online content. But, what about online platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, started by an owner,
Managing Misinformation on Social Media Read More »
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – this idea may properly apply to some things in life, but should never apply to how your community association is run. Preventative maintenance is key to the smooth and cost-effective operation of any community association. Deferred maintenance and repairs, or neglecting service requirements, often results in avoidable
The Importance of Doing Preventative Maintenance Read More »
The Board of Directors is the governing body that is responsible for the administration of your community association. Board meetings are a time for board members to come together to learn, exchange ideas, debate options, and ultimately determine the path forward for the association. During these meetings, someone is tasked with taking minutes which are
Tips on How to Take Good Board Meeting Minutes By Jennifer B. Cusimano, Esq. Read More »
Having enough parking spaces and getting owners, residents, and guests to follow the parking rules can be a major issue for many community associations. Towing a car is an effective way to get drivers to comply with the parking rules, but what authority does a board have to tow cars that are parked in violation
Is Towing an Option for Parking Violations? By Jennifer B. Cusimano, Esq. Read More »
The election season of 2020 saw an unprecedented number of owners flying flags to show their patriotism and to support their preferred candidate which led to many questions from board members about flags and flag policies. Under Ohio law, community associations cannot prohibit the display of the U.S. flag, the State of Ohio flag, and
Flag Displays and Policies, By Jennifer B. Cusimano, Esq. Read More »
One of the more misunderstood concepts of community associations is the difference between a director and an officer. Under Ohio law, all condominium and planned communities must be administered by an owners association. The board of directors is the governing body that is responsible for the administration of the owners association. The individuals who serve
Difference Between Directors and Officers By Jennifer B. Cusimano Read More »
Summer season is upon us. Warm days and nights provide the perfect conditions for grilling outdoors on a deck, patio, or balcony. That makes this the ideal time to think about fire safety and to review Ohio’s laws on grilling and the use of open-flame cooking devices. The Ohio Fire Code states, “Charcoal burners and
Ohio Grilling Law By Jennifer B. Cusimano, Esq. Read More »
