Looking for a challenge, a chance to make a difference; consider running for the VCA Board this fall. This fall three of the seven seats on the Board will be up for election. The Board is encouraging homeowners to step up and get involved.
The Board of Directors is responsible for managing the day-to-day affairs of the community in accordance with Florida Statutes. Beyond management, the Board serves as the elected representative body of the homeowners, making decisions that preserve property values and promote a safe, attractive, and harmonious living environment. Directors are fiduciaries, meaning they must act in the best interest of the VCA with loyalty, care, and good faith.
“It is a commitment and does take time, serving on the board,” said John Sample, President of the VCA Board. “I find the most satisfying part of being on the Board is the interaction with homeowners. I’ve talked with many people whom I’ve never met before. Whether it was a problem with assessment payments, landscaping issues, VCA rules, regulations or restrictions, most people are reasonable. There may not always be concurrence with respect to the ultimate decision but there is a respect by the Board for the perspectives.”
Board members must own a home in Verandah and be in good standing with the VCA. Requirements include being knowledgeable of the duties and responsibilities of a Director and actively participate in the organization’s meetings, including meetings of the Board and its Committees. Board Members should also understand their fiduciary responsibility and exercise good business judgment when acting on behalf of the community including disclosing conflicts of interest. Additionally, Directors should be committed to engaging homeowners though regular communications
“I think the biggest misconception is that the board has this unlimited authority to make whatever decision serves our personal interest. Simply untrue,” said Brian Parsons, Board Member. “We have a fiduciary responsibility to act on the best interest of all Verandah residents. We must follow Florida HOA laws, our governing documents, and be fiscally responsible.”
BJ Perkins, one of the newer Board Members, said that she thinks one of the biggest hurdles to getting people to run is the fear that serving on the board is extremely time-consuming and comes with an overwhelming level of responsibility, which can make people hesitant to get involved.
“In reality, what we really need are homeowners who care about the community and have a passion for maintaining and improving it. It’s about working together to ensure Verandah continues to be a beautiful place to live, and every contribution—big or small—helps make a difference.” said BJ. “Our goal is to ensure that people feel heard and that we’re putting the community’s needs first. I would absolutely encourage anyone who’s interested to get involved and throw their hat in the ring.”
Brian Parsons who is completing his first year on the Board explains that there is definitely a learning curve and that it takes time, preparation, and working together to resolve issues.
“Another surprise for me is just how much I enjoy the work. It’s really rewarding. We have some big issues to resolve whether it be the developer settlement, the stop light at the main entrance, and ongoing infrastructure issues,” said Brian. “Our community has a wide array of viewpoints. Some issues are more complex than it appears on the surface. To be successful in this service requires thoughtful listening and patience to make the right decision.”
The term for Board Members is two years. Terms are staggered so that in any given year there are no more than three or four positions open for election. This approach provides continuity and ensures that Association knowledge by Board Members always exists.
“We are hoping to see a diverse group of homeowners choose to run this year,” said John. “The most important roles of any new Board member is the ability to work together, to respect varying opinions, and to be focused on the greater good rather than simply one person’s belief.”
Stay tuned for more information from the VCA regarding the particulars of this fall’s election. For more information on the VCA Board, visit VCAlife.com and read the Organizational Handbook.
