Should You Be A Candidate?
by Karen Pacifico

It seems like just yesterday when I submitted my application to the Community Association’s Board of Directors Nominating Committee for consideration for a seat in the 2004 election.  Now I have been appointed to Chair the Nominating Committee for this year’s election.  The role of the Committee is to solicit qualified and interested candidates for the election scheduled for May 17.

 

Serving on the Nominating Committee with me, are:  Joe Fragale, Wally Hollinger, Jim Lancaster, Jean Quigg, Diane Rand and Joan Schmid. These residents represent a variety of interests in the community and all have been in positions of leadership.  Please join me in thanking them in advance for accepting this added responsibility.

There are seven seats on the Board, four appointed by the Developer and three elected by the residents.  When Sun City reaches 90% buildout, residents will hold all seven seats on the board.  In 2005, one of the three seats reserved for the Resident Board Members will need to be filled because the two-year term of Al Reuben will be expiring mid-year.  As I write this column, Al has stated he will be seeking nomination for another term.

In its role as the governing body of the community, the board is responsible for preparation and adoption of annual budgets, determining each owner’s share of common and neighborhood expenses, the levying and collection of assessments, the operation and maintenance of common areas, and discussing personnel issues with the Executive Director in line with the Boards need to carry out the associations rights and responsibilities.

 

There is a fiduciary responsibility that includes, but is not limited to requiring the depositing and investment of association funds into secure environments, the maintenance of adequate reserve funds to minimize the need for special assessments and a requirement to protect the common assets of the community with appropriate insurance.  

 

Also, the board of directors is empowered to make and amend the rules and regulations of the community and establish procedures and penalties necessary for enforcement.  It also assists in resolving disputes between owners and others in an attempt to avoid litigation.

As part of its role in managing the community, the board establishes specific committees with reporting responsibilities to the board.  These include, but are not limited to the –Covenants Committee, Finance Committee, Fitness Advisory Committee, Golf Advisory Committee, Modifications Committee, Resident Communications Committee, Property and Grounds Committee, Government and Business Affairs Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee. 

Needless to say, the Board of Directors needs qualified and dedicated members.  If you feel you are able to represent the views of the residents, have relevant experience, and are willing to devote the time and energy required, please pick up an information packet at the Community Association’s Office in Pinckney Hall and submit your application no later than Monday, March 14.

 

If you have any questions, please contact any of the members of the Nominating Committee.