Community Associations Journal

Wildfires – Prevent & Prepare

May 18, 2022 | By Joy Steele, Featured Article, Uncategorized

Summers are hotter and drier than at any time in recently recorded history. Every season, we see news stories of suburban areas and sometimes entire towns being destroyed by raging wildfires that swept through areas faster than the firefighting crews could contain them.

Only 12% of those were lightning-caused; the remaining 88% were human-caused. Fires are not uncontrollable, and we must establish plans for prevention & preparedness.

Playground Inspections

Apr 13, 2022 | By Sandy Cobb, CMCA, Featured Article

Regularly inspected & well maintained playgrounds are not only visually appealing, they are much safer. Kids on a playground aren’t worried about safety. Adults are also thinking about the kids having fun. They both rely on someone else to make sure equipment is safe so that kids can just play.

A Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) is trained in playground hazard identification, equipment specifications, surfacing requirements, & risk management.

Neighbor Conflicts: True Mediation Stories

Mar 22, 2022 | By Mary Reiten, Esq., Featured Article

Courts can only do rough justice – it’s like performing surgery with a chain saw. In contrast, mediation allows you to arrive at a personalized solution for your unique problem. Statistically, mediation resolutions are more durable than those imposed by a court.

The following examples are true scenarios that have been modified to anonymize the identity of original parties as well as the developments they live in.

Pool and Pond Safety Standards

Mar 8, 2022 | By Trent Nelson, Featured Article

We all benefit from time spent around the water. Whether it’s in the form of lakes, ponds, or even swimming pools, science proves that water instils a sense of peace and tranquility within each of us. HOAs often contain all three of these water resources, but proper management and safety precautions are required to reap the benefits.

Without it, these aquatic ecosystems may become a danger and detriment to your community.

Asphalt Maintenance

Jan 12, 2022 | By David Wescott, Featured Article

Asphalt maintenance is typically one of the biggest expenses an association faces on a regular basis. Many associations deal with this and unfortunately, none get a free pass. Successful asphalt maintenance comes down to preparation and being proactive. This means starting now.

The first step is getting a professional assessment in order to analyze the current state of the streets and parking lot. What should an assessment include?