Blame shared in condo disputes


 

Letter Courtesy of the SUN SENTINEL

By Leon P. Seigel
BOCA RATON

Posted 12-30-2004

 

Your Dec. 11 editorial, "Condo ombudsman job a handful," was an excellent presenting of the problem facing many of our condominium association residents. I agree that Dr. Rizzo's job will be "quite a handful."

Having served on our board of directors for more than 15 years in the capacity of president but mostly as treasurer as well as chairman of our "documents committee," which entailed working with our attorney to revise, on more than one occasion, our association's documents, I have witnessed first-hand many of the disputes between owners and directors.

As I see it, the problems arise from the basic concept of the condominium association. They are administered by owners without administrative or "hands-on" experience, who believe that being on a board confers upon them some inherent privilege or honor. They do not realize that to do the job properly requires hard work and dedication along with a concept of fiscal responsibility.

It is important that an effort be made to study and understand condominium law (Florida Chapter 718) as well as the rules and regulations (61B) as promulgated by the state. I have long advocated that new directors be required to take a four-hour course in such law and be certified by the state after proper testing. Let's hope that Dr. Rizzo will give this some consideration.

Of course, the fault also lies with those unit owners who are indifferent to the workings of their board, who fail to attend meetings and become involved by volunteering to be on committees and who take no interest in nor question the numerous items on the annual budget. They elect board members not based upon their background and experience and what they can contribute to the association but who is the most popular individual with the friendliest smile. Fortunately, however, there are many qualified unit owners now serving their communities.

Until a more active role is taken in their affairs by residents of condominium associations, along with a basic understanding of the law as well as the association's documents and rules and regulations. Dr. Rizzo will have a tough job ahead. Nevertheless, I wish him the best in his new job.

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