It’s late fall/ early winter, a time when many Associations are preparing for their annual meetings to plan for the upcoming year. These meetings serve as crucial moments for Associations to conduct Board of Directors elections, review proposed budgets and assessments for the next year, and strategize future projects.
If there is one thing you choose to participate in within your Association, we highly encourage attending your annual meeting. If attendance is not possible, please consider submitting your proxy. Achieving quorum, which is often set at high requirements, is essential for the meeting to proceed smoothly and for the planning process to move forward. Fortunately, recent changes in Virginia law have allowed many meetings to be held in electronic formats, such as Zoom, making it more convenient for owners, including those who may be out of town, to participate.
The annual meeting presents a wonderful opportunity to meet your neighbors and gain insight into the operations of your Association. It is also a suitable forum to offer suggestions or ask questions about matters that impact the entire community. Remember, if you have specific inquiries related to your circumstances, it is best to reach out to us directly.

With that said, we kindly request that owners attending the annual meeting maintain an atmosphere of respect and politeness. The Board of Directors consists of unpaid volunteers who have willingly taken on the responsibility of managing the Association's affairs, while fellow owners are your neighbors. The Association operates as both a business entity and your neighborhood, and it is important to avoid degrading conversations through yelling, offensive language, name-calling, or personal attacks. Such behaviors are counterproductive and demeaning to those involved.
Regardless of the reasons that led you to purchase a home in your Association, you are now an integral part of your community. It is vital for everyone to participate to the best of their abilities. Attend meetings, consider starting or joining a club or committee, and be the kind of neighbor you would like to have. Embrace your ownership of the neighborhood, be accountable for your actions, and stay engaged. In my almost decade of managing Associations, I have observed that the happiest residents are those who actively participate in Association activities. Just like in any other aspect of life, it is challenging to feel connected and content if we don't work towards the things we want to see and allow everything to happen around us.
Let us always remember to be kind and considerate neighbors, supporting the bonds that strengthen our community.
"A true community is not merely about physical proximity or sharing a social network. It is about feeling connected and responsible for what occurs. Humanity itself is our ultimate community, and each individual plays a crucial role." - Yehuda Berg