Journal Notes – January 2022

by Michael Hamline, Editor / Published January 2022

Happy New Year and welcome to 2022! On page 8, the Salary & Information Survey provides information to review and analyze as reported by survey respondents in 2021. This is one tool that can be used to determine what to provide for those who make your community a place you enjoy living in. Some good news for 2022 is that manager salaries came in at a statewide average of $69,579 with an average salary bonus of $4,480. Employees in charge of grounds, housekeeping, and security also saw increases in their hourly wages.

On page 12, FLCAJ is excited and thankful to celebrate 35 years in print! You can read a little history of how the publication started as a newsletter in 1987 and grew from there. We look forward to what 2022 will bring.

On page 28, Jeff Rembaum, Esq., with Kaye Bender Rembaum has written the article “Securing Your Gated Community.” He asks, “What kind of identification can an association require? Are there limits?” He details that an association can swipe a driver’s license but can’t store, sell, or share the personal information that comes from swiping it. Additional information is provided throughout the article.

Jennifer Horan, Esq., with Becker has written “Financial Management and Planning Is Key to a Healthy Condominium Association.” The article can be read on page 36. She says, “Financial stability is essential to the success of an association,” and she points out that the first step in maintaining this stability is establishing a proper budget.

On page 40, Laura Manning-Hudson with Siegfried Rivera asks, “Florida Condominium Associations Can Now Choose Pre-Suit Mediations for Certain Disputes, but Should They?” This option came about through a change in the 2021 legislative session. The article goes on to explore whether condominium associations should choose the arbitration process or pre-suit mediation process.

Other articles provide guidelines for choosing an internet service provider, fire prevention with trash chute and dryer riser maintenance, the benefits of a bulk broadband agreement, conduct becoming an officer, the creation of a rules-enforcement culture, and steps for drafting a budget in the 2021–2022 economy.

FLCAJ wishes you a Happy New Year and a fulfilling 2022!

Editor