Committees are an important part of every Association’s operations. Committee members help keep Communities vibrant; and, by augmenting paid staff, they save Associations thousands of dollars each year. Your Community just wouldn’t be what it is without your active and effective committees!
However, to be successful, your Association needs to cultivate fresh ideas and encourage additional resident involvement in your committees. So, what are you waiting for?!
Committees give Boards a way to gather information, offer new ideas and opinions and provide a training ground for future Board members. All committees are advisory to the Board unless given specific decision-making authority by the board or CC&Rs.
The Board provides each committee with a job description, goal and mission statement to help it succeed as a Community resource.
Common types of committees include:
- Administrative committees, like an architectural control committee, are set out in many Association’s bylaws and CC&Rs. They are ongoing, permanent and often have clearly defined power and authority.
- Standing committees, such as a finance and facility management committee, are established by the Board for an ongoing and specific purpose. These committees generally make recommendations to and act under the supervision of the Board.
- Ad-hoc committees, such as a summer picnic committee, are established by the Board as needed for specific projects and tasks. When the task is complete, the committee is disbanded.
So, if you’re thinking about running for the Board and want to learn a little more about Association operations first, or if you’re interested in helping improve your Community or just want to get out and meet neighbors, reach out to your Manager or Board members about joining a committee!
