Journal Notes

by Michael Hamline, Editor / Published May 2024

     This issue of FLCAJ contains the management company showcase. The showcase shines a spotlight on the important and vital role management companies and community association managers take on in overseeing the community associations with which they are entrusted. When you turn to page 8, you will read about more than 25 of these management companies, including the services they provide and the locations throughout Florida where they assist communities. Some of the companies have provided their top tip—tips to save money, time, and headaches for boards of directors seeking to carry out well their fiduciary duties.

     Take the time to look at the management company directory on page 30, which provides a number of management companies throughout the state with their websites and contact information that you can use to find out more about their services.

     From pages 40–78, a variety of articles address the following topics: avoidance of common mistakes in board governance, the establishment of effective vendor relationships through a variety of best practices, top tips to prepare your community for the summer season, maintenance steps to enhance the community’s value and appeal, and the key to securing a community association through a good working relationship between the community association board and security vendor. In addition FLCAJ readers are provided with essential tips and tricks for a smooth and successful budget process, taught the importance of preventive maintenance, equipped with criteria for selecting a management company that is a good fit for their community, and given answers to some frequently asked questions about maintenance services for communities.

     In her “CAM Matters” column on page 92 Betsy Barbieux takes time to share some of the Florida Statutes and rules community association managers need to follow as well as provides important timelines and documents needed in the course of a CAM carrying out her or his responsibilities.

     On page 82 Bryony Swift with Becker addresses new crimes and penalties created by the Florida legislature in House Bill 1021 for condominiums and the HOA reforms as set out in House Bill 1203.

     On page 88 Jeffrey Rembaum with Kaye Bender Rembaum discusses the need for a legislative fix as regards a special assessment in a collection/foreclosure action according to Florida Statute 718.116(5)(b).

     FLCAJ wishes you a wonderful May.

Editor