CAI of Georgia
Transcription
CAI of Georgia
C Third Quarter 2009 g e o r g i a ommons A Publication of Community Associations Institute of Georgia, Inc. Inside: SHATTERED DREAMS Attorney’s Fees in Collection Cases Plan the Project: DON’T JUST BID IT OUT ...and more! Quarterly Quote Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 “One of the best ways to measure people is to watch the way they behave when something free is offered.” – Ann Landers 2 0 0 9 Magazine Lee Mason, Esq. PCAM, Chair Community Association Management, LLC John Lueder , Esq., Board Liaison The Lueder Law Firm, LLC Christy Borden, CMCA, AMS Fairfield Plantation Elina Brim, Esq., The Lueder Law Firm, LLC Gary Caruso, PE, RS Criterium-Caruso Engineers Alex Coffman Community Management Associates Elizabeth Frey, Esq. Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Doug Goldin, Esq. Rome & Goldin, P.C. Mark Greer Tower Roofing Travis Jinright Russell Landscape Group Joe Larkin The Lueder Law Firm, LLC Michael Leavey, Esq. Dorough & Dorough, LLC Jason LoMonaco, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Mike Mewbourne Pritchard & Jerden Ashley Miller Lanier, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. John Mitchell, CPA Owens & Mitchell, P.C. Marilyn Ratzel, Esq. Lazega & Johanson, LLC Marisol Reyes, CMCA, AMS Brookwood Place Unit Owners Assoc. RC Shanks, CMCA, AMS, PCAM GW & Associates Education Leslie Fellows, CMCA, Chair Today Management Inc. Sandy Depa, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Board Liaison Homeowner Management Services Jane Beasley, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Sentry Management Ashlie Bisig SERVPRO of North Fulton Lanier Coulter, Esq. Dorough & Dorough, LLC Lisa Fuerst, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Brendan Hunter, Esq. The Lueder Law Firm, LLC Jami Kohn, Esq. Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Noelle Larson Lazega & Johanson LLC Kevon Oliver Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. Jody Peskin, Esq. Lipshutz, Greenblatt & King Olen Robinson, CMCA Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. Tamera Rodeman Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. Colby Shear, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Shaben & Associates Robin Steinkritz, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. 2 Ian Stone Community Management Associates Maggie Vath Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Fundraising Jeff Creecy, Committee Chair Greenwood Group Jenni Clemons, CMCA, AMS, Board Liaison Today Management Inc. Ethan Atherton Horizonz Property Management Ken Baggs, CMCA, AMS Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. Alicia Fortner Rome & Goldin, P. C. Debbie Giggi, CMCA, AMS Community Management Associates Jessica Hartmann Valley Crest Sara Hicks Parker Young Construction Ginny Krueger, PCAM Today Management Inc. Scott Kuperberg, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Traci Lettsome, Esq. Lipshutz, Greenblatt & King, P.C. Kelley Moon EPIC Response Mary Ellen Sullivan Sentry Management Chris Taylor Sutter, McLellan & Gilbreath, Inc. Jamal Williams, Esq. Lazega & Johanson LLC Golf Jay Fraiser, Esq., Chair Lazega & Johanson, LLC Teddy Russell, Board Liaison Russell Landscape Group Neal Bach, CPA Bach, James, Mansour & Co. Ashlie Bisig SERVPRO of North Fulton Kevin Carnes Arborguard Tree Services Nancy Cooper Ray Engineering Kim Gaddis, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Gary Kart Kart’s Landscape Ginny Krueger, PCAM Today Management Inc. Mary Masi Community Management Associates Mark Moore, Esq. Lazega & Johanson, LLC Dale Pendergraft P3 Painting & Renovations Sean Ruthven, CMCA Access Management Donnie Taylor A Tow Atlanta Stephen A. Winter, Esq. Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Steven M. Winter, Esq. Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Marc Wise Sweetwater Pool Service CO M M ITTEES Membership Robin Steinkritz, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Chair Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. Chuck Negas, Board Liaison Northwest Exterminating Daidra Annis, Houston & Co. Rhonda Beasley, Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. Skip Breeden, Esq. The Lueder Law Firm Cheryl Bryant Community Club Cleaning Lawson Burnat Pritchard & Jerden Kevin Carnes, Arborguard Tree Service Blair Dean ASAP Mold Tanya Fairclough-James, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Mickel Graham, PCAM Union Bank Perry Greene Taylor Commercial David Hill, CMCA, AMS Access Management Laura Lazar, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Eagle Management Mark Peaks, Sandy Springs Lawn Scapes Ben Rosenquist, Talley Custom Painting & Renovations Jenny Shepherd Full Circle Restoration Judy Williams, Outdoor Lighting Sabrina Williams Southern Perfection Painting, Inc. Programs Mike Crew, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Chair Homeowner Management Services Nancy Allen, CPM Nature Scapes Travis Couick AAPCO Jeff Creecy Greenwood Group Scott Douglas National Cooperative Bank Karen Focia, Esq. Lazega & Johanson LLC Laura Fomby PDQ Services Beryl Grall-Petty Community Management Associates Dan Henning, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Community Management Associates Derek Johanson, Esq. Lazega & Johanson, LLC Clarence Lau, Esq. Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Ryan Maki Neighborhood Management Associates John Melvin Rock Bridge Commercial Bank Sheri Stebbins Crabapple Rob Stein, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Bob Russell Russell Landscape Group Mindy Waitsman, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Public Relations Randi Anderson, Chair Community Management Associates Kathy Dorough, Board Liaison Dorough & Dorough, LLC Amy Bray, Esq. Andersen, Tate & Carr, P.C. Mary Beth Sierra Dorough & Dorough, LLC Kate Cunningham Access Management Group Shandron Forte, CMCA Professional Office Solutions Bradley Griffin, Russell Landscape Group Laura Guilmette Unique Environmental Pat Hillen, CMCA, PCAM Community Association Banc Brad Jackson Greenwood Group Ron Jockers, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Homeowner Management Services Barbara Miciul, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Lorraine Serritt, Esq. Lazega & Johanson LLC Darren Thurmond, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Atlanta Community Services Chantell Welch Horizonz Property Management Bekke White, CMCA Union Bank Miye Yi, Esq. Lazega & Johanson LLC Page Porter A Tow Atlanta Sheri Stebbins Crabapple Stephen A. Winter, Esq. Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Green Committe Sue Shaw, CMCA, AMS, Chair Union Bank Chuck Negas, Board Liaison Northwest Exterminating Nancy Allen Nature Scapes Scott Boring, AAA Painting Amy Bray, Esq. Andersen, Tate & Carr, P.C. Rachel Carbley DirecPath Gail Creef Today Management Inc. Emily Croft Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Matt Dempsey Russell Landscape Group Leslie Fellows, CMCA Today Management Inc Mark Greer Tower Roofing. Jessica Hartmann ValleyCrest Kelvin Pipe, Contracting Concepts, Inc. Terrence Spires, Team Pest USA Brandon Thomas Russell Landscape Group Brian Watters Tennis Unique Environmental Judy Dreher, Co-Chair Bekke White, CMCA Dreher Insurance Merrill Walker, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Co-Chair Union Bank Robert Zappulla Homeside Properties Legislative Action Sandy Depa, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Board Liaison Mike Zenner, Esq., Chair Homeowner Management Services Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Ken Baggs, CMCA, AMS Kathy Dorough, Esq., Board Liaison Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. Dorough & Dorough, LLC Zach Beck Caroline Bell, PCAM Apex Billing Today Management Inc. Andrew Bennett Sally Butler-Lewis PDQ Services Insurance Marketing Group, LLC Ashlie Bisig Celia Ebert, CPM SERVPRO of North Fulton Parkside Management David Boy, Esq. Dennis Hoffman, CMCA, PCAM The Lueder Law Firm, LLC Community Management Associates Mike Dangler Julie McGhee Howard, Esq. Nature Scapes Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Seth Daugherty Doyle Jones, CMCA, PCAM Homeside Properties Capitol Community Management Blair Dean Laura Lazar, CMCA, AMS, PCAM ASAP Mold Eagle Management Floyd Dickens, Esq. Randy Lipshutz, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Lipshutz, Greenblatt & King, LLP Derry Duncan George Nowack, Esq. Unlimited Landscaping Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. Laura Guilmette Unique Environmental Kerrie Napoli Taylor Commercial Jeanette Payne AtHomeNet Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org A Letter from the Chapter President By Teddy Russell Georgia Chapter of CAI 2 0 0 9 precious metals sponsors PLATINUM Teddy Russell “The Georgia CAI chapter has had a strong year with several new events and many new faces.” C an you believe that the summer is already coming to an end? Hopefully, everyone has had a couple days of vacation and some time to catch their breath before annual budgets are put together, community pools are closed and I return to Athens each Saturday to watch the Dawgs play! The July Luncheon was a tremendous success. The chapter recognized the first ever recipient for the Hall Of Fame award, presented to Doyle Jones. Doyle truly earned this award which entails “continuous Chapter service over an extended period of years in many capacities.” Congratulations, Doyle! The Green award was presented to ValleyCrest Landscape for its achievements in sustainable landscapes and environmentally friendly initiatives. After the awards, Jeff Creecy and the Fundraising committee had huge success with this year’s Calendar Auction. More than $15,000.00 was raised, which will allow CAI to continue retaining a lobbyist to monitor the 2010 legislative session. I am still catching heat for bidding the highest amount of the day! Luckily, the benefits that the committee put together will more than pay for the expense! The second half of the year is packed with events and education. On August 21st, the Membership Committee is hosting a luncheon for all manager members. There will be a representative from CAI national and some really exciting announcements regarding the manager membership structure. If you are a community manager, you will not want to miss this free lunch at Maggianos! CAI’s annual golf tournament is quickly approaching. Jay Frasier and the Golf Committee have set a record selling out all the sponsorships before August! The event is on September 17th and we look forward to seeing everyone at Windermere. Make sure to sign up quickly to play as registrations will definitely sell out well before the tournament. Also, in September, the Homeowner education class on the housing market and economy is back by popular demand. This is going to be held at the Sheraton Galleria in Cobb County on the 29th. Everyone’s help to get the word out to the homeowners is very much appreciated. This is a great time to build your relationship as a manager or vendor by bringing your homeowner boards. We look forward to more classes from Leslie Fellows of Today Management, Inc. and the Education Committee with a Mold CE Class on August 19, 2009 and a Manager Career Enhancement Lunch & Learn on September 23, 2009. The Georgia CAI chapter has had a strong year with several new events and many new faces. I continue to receive comments every week about the benefit that CAI has brought to its membership. It always amazes me how hard the volunteers work to achieve the goals of our chapter and I am so glad that their efforts are paying off. Teddy Russell Russell Landscape Group CAI-Georgia Chapter President Community Association Banc Community Association Management Community Association Underwriters Community Club Management Community Management Associates Community One Associates Construction Corporation of America Dorough & Dorough, LLC GW & Associates Heritage Property Mgt. Services, Inc. Karts Landscaping The Lueder Law Firm, LLC Nature Scapes Russell Landscape Group Southern Perfection Painting, Inc. Union Bank Unlimited Landscape & Turf Mgmt., Inc. Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. GOLD Allsouth Renovations, Inc. Arborguard Tree Specialists, Inc. Homeowner Management Services, Inc. Lazega & Johanson LLC Lipshutz, Greenblatt & King Preventive Maintenance & Contracting Service Ray Engineering, Inc. SERVPRO of North Fulton SmartStreet Talley Custom Painting & Renovations Taylor Commercial TMI/Associa SILVER AAA Painting & Staining Access Management Group Advantage Pool Management Services, Inc. Bayview Community Services, Inc. Capitol Community Management Colonial Bank Crabapple, Inc. EPIC Response Homeside Properties, Inc. Lincoln Condominium Group Owens & Mitchell, PC P3 Painting & Renovations Parker Young Construction Perimeter Landscape Rock Bridge Commercial Bank Sandy Springs Lawn Scapes Shaben & Associates Sweetwater Pool Service Tower Roofing ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance BRONZE Alexander Termite & Pest Control All Seasons Painting American Painting & Renovations, Inc. American Pool Service of Georgia Andersen, Tate, & Carr, P.C. Atlanta Community Services, Inc. Bach, James, Mansour & Co., P.C. Battle Commercial Cannon Construction Community Club Cleaning Contracting Concepts, Inc. Criterium-Caruso Engineers Elan Management Exclusive Association Management Full Circle Restoration Gold Leaf Landscape Management GreenCare by Outdoor Expressions Greenwood Group HOA Management, LLC Horizonz Property Management Insurance Marketing Group, LLC Jowers & Company Northwest Exterminating Co. Inc. Rome & Goldin, P.C. Sentry Management Inc. Submeter One, LLC Superior Community Services, LLC 3 Community Association Banc Exclusively Dedicated to Common Interest Communities t0OMJOFDBTINBOBHFNFOUTZTUFNT t0OMJOF"$)BOEDSFEJUDBSEQBZNFOUTZTUFNT t0OMJOFEPDVNFOUEFMJWFSZ t)0"MPBOTGPSQSPQFSUZNBJOUFOBODF BOEEFWFMPQNFOU t-PDLCPYBOEEJHJUBMJNBHJOHTFSWJDFT t%FEJDBUFEDVTUPNFSTFSWJDFUFBNT Pat Hillen PCAM CMCA Regional Account Executive 866.800.4656, ext. 7502 tQIJMMFO!DBCBODDPN Visit us at cabanc.com National Corporate Member of Community Association Institute. Sponsor of Georgia CAI Chapter. Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org ATTORNEY’S FEES IN COLLECTION CASES By Elina V. Brim, Esq. The Lueder Law Firm, LLC www.luederlaw.com “...an owner’s obligation I G e o r g i a C h a p t e r o f C AI 2009 Board of Directors n these current economic times, many boards are reaching out to delinquent owners to help come up with payment plans and other creative ways for delinquent owners to become current on their past due assessments. In many situations, however, reaching out is simply not enough. There are some owners who will not work with the boards. When that occurs, a board is faced with a choice of either risking not meeting the association’s financial obligations and allowing delinquency rates to continue or pursuing collections against the delinquent owners. For communities with high delinquency rates, the issue of attorney’s fees is especially important in collection cases. Two important changes on the issue of attorney’s fees took effect within the last year. The first change is a statute that became effective in July 2008, and the second is a Georgia Court of Appeals case that was decided in April 2009. The Georgia Property Owners’ Association Act (the “POA”) and the Georgia Condominium Act (the “Condo Act”) state that as long as the governing documents so provide, an owner’s obligation to pay assessments also includes the costs of collections, including court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees actually incurred. Effective July 1, 2008, common law homeowners associations are able to avail themselves of a similar statute: O.C.G.A. §44-5-60(e). This new statute applies to homeowners associations not subject to the POA or Condo Act and likewise provides that reasonable attorney’s fees actually incurred are the obligation of the owner. The issue of attorney’s fees in a collection case was recently before the Georgia Court of Appeals in the case of The Springs Condominium Association, Inc. v. Harris. In that case, a condominium association sued an owner, Cedric Harris, for unpaid assessments and other charges totaling over $15,000.00. Mr. Harris filed an answer with the court in which he admitted owing the past due amounts. In addition, Mr. Harris paid the assessments and charges that were owed at the time the suit was filed. He did not, however, pay any President................................................... Teddy Russell Russell Landscape Group President-Elect.............................Kathy Dorough, Esq. Dorough & Dorough, LLC Past President............................................ Chuck Negas Northwest Exterminating Vice President ................................................Dan Ross Sutton Pines Condominium Association Secretary............. Sandy Depa, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Homeowner Management Services Treasurer .......................................... John Lueder, Esq. The Lueder Law Firm, LLC Board Director............. Jenni Clemons, CMCA, AMS Today Management Inc. Executive Director.................................... Julie Jackson Georgia Chapter of CAI to pay assessments also includes the costs of collections, including court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees...” attorney’s fees that were incurred in the preparation and filing of the lawsuit. The trial court thereafter refused to grant attorney’s fees incurred by the association in filing the suit against Mr. Harris even though it was the filing of the lawsuit that compelled the payment from Mr. Harris. On appeal, the Georgia Court of Appeals sided with the association, holding that where a statute’s language as to an award of attorney fees is mandatory, the trial court is required to award reasonable attorney’s fees. Based on the above case and statutes, a community association’s ability to recover attorney’s fees in collection cases was strengthened in the past year. While it is important for community association boards to work with delinquent homeowners, there are times that putting owners into collections and filing collection lawsuits become necessary steps to recover unpaid assessments. n Georgia Chapter of CAI PO Box 2943 Peachtree City, GA 30269 Tel (770) 736-7233 Fax (770) 736-7232 E-mail: juliejackson@earthlink.net Our Mission: The Georgia Chapter of CAI is the voice of the community association industry in the state. Our purpose is to facilitate the professional creation and operation of community associations through the delivery of high quality education for our multidisciplinary membership. We are committed to building cohesion, integrity and respect. ■■■ The materials contained in this publication are designed to provide accurate, timely and authoritative information with regard to the subject matter covered. The opinions reflected herein are the opinion of the author and not necessarily that of CAI. Acceptance of an advertisement in Georgia Commons does not constitute approval or endorsement of the product or service by CAI. CAI-Georgia reserves the right to reject or edit any advertisements, articles, or items appearing in this publication. ■■■ To submit an article for publication in Georgia Commons, contact Julie Jackson at (770) 736-7233. 5 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 Shattered Dreams By R. Shanks, PCAM GW & Associates, Inc. Over the past several years, many dreams have been shattered. Developers, home builders, banks and homeowners have all suffered devastating financial losses. D evelopers envisioned that the lots and communities they were developing would sell quickly. Instead, they have seen the value of these residential lots plummet well below the amount owed on them. Developers have lost lots or entire developments to the bank that financed them. Many developers have gone bankrupt or have just gone out of business. Communities under development that were once a flurry of activity are now silent with out of control weeds and grass on vacant lots since no one has the funds available to mow them. In these subdivisions, the all too familiar white utility pipes, barely visible above the weeds and grass, give the impression of tombstones. Home builders have seen a drastic drop in their potential customers. They have seen the value of their completed homes decrease by thousands of dollars and their profits evaporate. Many have filed bankruptcy. Some of the large national and regional builders have left the state. Those still trying to hang on have been forced to cut their staffs. Most have been spending more time negotiating with the banks to keep their projects going than they have been completing and selling homes. One home builder recently told me he feels as if he is working for the bank. These same home builders are blamed by their former customers for the community not being as they envisioned it or as their sales agent indicated it would be. Any profits and cash reserves the home builder may have seemingly vanished. He has often not been able to arrange additional financing, and his remaining staff now must do several jobs. Therefore, in community after community, we are seeing many things going undone. In many communities, common areas are not being well maintained and fresh pine straw and vibrant colorful summer flowers are not affordable. Sadly, many community swimming pools have not opened even though the Atlanta area temperatures continue to rise well into the nineties. These shuttered pools consequently have become a favorite target for vandals. All Homeowners have seen the value of their homes plunge. Often, their homes are now valued at less than what they owe on them. Many have lost their jobs or have had their hours cut, thereby making it hard for them to cover all of their expenses. Some have had to file for bankruptcy, while many have lost their homes to foreclosure or have just abandoned them. These problems are also taking their toll on many communities. Most of the vacant, foreclosed or abandoned homes require repair because of damage by vandals or are in need of grass being cut. The Banks and Mortgage Companies have been forced by their regulators to call in many loans or to foreclose on numerous homes and projects they have financed. The strain of underperforming loans and the specter of government scrutiny are making it difficult for them to operate in the usual manner. This in turn has caused many banks to fail and many mortgage companies to go out of business. The Community Association that was established and charged with maintaining the common areas of the community and enforcing the covenants is often unable to do so simply because it has run out of operating funds. The association depends on homeowners in the community to pay their assessments. These assessments or fees provide the money needed to operate the association (a corporation). Without these funds, the association cannot provide the services it promised. In developing communities, the Declarant (developer or builder) generally pays the shortfall (the difference between assessment income and actual cost of operation). Presently, most developers either do not have the money to pay the shortfall or they have simply gone out of business. It is indeed a complex and frustrating situation. No one entity or person is to blame. No one could predict the recession in which we now find ourselves. Everyone has suffered to some degree. Some have lost all while some have found a way to hang on. Rebuilding Those Dreams Years ago in almost every town across the country everyone knew not only their neighbors but almost everyone in the town. People worked together and helped each other. Our population has grown and diversified and our cities and communities are teeming with people that are so immersed with their own lives that they don’t know the family next door or across the street. A community is not truly a community until the homeowners in the community come together and meet one another. Often it takes a problem or a tragedy to bring people together. Pulling Together – Working Together – All-For-One & One-For-All - It can be said many ways but much more can be accomplished when everyone works together. Several communities are well on their way to insuring that their communities do not fall victim to neglect, an outcome which would lower their home values even more. *Leisure Crossing near Braselton was beginning to look like a ghost town. Neither the builder nor the developers were in a financial position to fund the association. Working together, the twenty homeowners at Leisure Crossing have reduced their expenses and raised money to assure that their grounds, pool, and clubhouse are well maintained. It all started when they became aware that there was insufficient assessment income to keep things going. Most were upset that their dreams were about to be shattered. They were frustrated and angry; they blamed the developer, the builder and the management company. Several meetings were held, and bit-by-bit the anger and frustration gave way to cooperation and team work. Almost everyone pitched in. Furniture was donated for the clubhouse; one owner took the pool operator’s certification class so he could maintain the pool while others cut the grass and cleaned restrooms. They identified street lights which they felt were unnecessary and had them cut off. Neighbor to neighbor conversations resulted in everyone paying their assessments. Still there were not enough funds to operate everything for the remainder of the year. Additional meetings were held, some in person and some by e-mail. Two things were decided: 1) everyone would need to pay an additional $200.00 immediately, C ontinues on page 8 . 6 Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org Swimming Pool Management for Community Associations Customized Weekly Service • Chemicals Repair and Renovation Pool Supplies • Safety Equipment Leak Detection Phone: 770-992-4322 Fax: 770-650-0078 Service@AdvantagePoolManagement.com 7 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 SHATTERED DREAMS...from page 6. and 2) they would attempt to sell pool memberships to the community next door. Selling pool memberships to the adjacent community has raised much needed funds and has fostered many new friendships. Things have turned around so much that the builder is again trying to sell homes in the community. Their community is a survivor and the dream will be realized. *Brooksville homeowners in Cumming are well on their way. They have formed an Advisory Board. They are taking on some of the responsibilities in their community such as monitoring the pool, cleaning and stocking the restrooms, making repairs to the playground equipment, etc. They are also forming a compliance committee to monitor covenant violations. Their community is far from built out. They want to help see that the community looks its best so the builder can continue to sell homes. *Cason Woods, a community near Jonesboro, has one owner who finally understood the severity and reality of the situation. He has taken it upon himself on several occasions to go door to door in the community to encourage those who have not paid their assessments to do so. He has also enlisted several other owners to form an Advisory Board. They are discussing renting equipment so they can cut the tall grass and weeds on the vacant lots. They want to assure that their dreams are realized. *Camellia Springs near Powder Springs was well on its way to becoming a dream community. It had a great location, attractive lots, beautiful homes, and a nice pool, clubhouse and tennis courts. Then everything stopped dead. It has been slashed by a double edged sword. First, the developer and builder had their loans called by the bank; then within days the FDIC took over the bank. Second, after several weeks, the bank/FDIC directed the builder to sell five completed homes at less than the builder owed on them (a short sale). The few original owners in the community understandably are angry, frustrated and hurt. Not only have their home values plummeted, but their community association is in dire financial straits. Meetings, thus far, have served primarily as a forum to vent the anger and frustrations. Hopefully, at the next meeting an Advisory Board will be established and a firm foundation of cooperation and teamwork will be formed. Several owners are spearheading this effort. One stepped forward and personally paid the past due electric bill of more than $1,200. This will insure that the lights stay on and the pool pumps operate at least for the next few months. *Astor Lake, a developing community near Fairburn, was dealt a severe blow. Just before pulling out and leaving the community association in debt, the builder and Declarant resigned from the Board. A meeting was then called to elect a homeowner Board of Directors. At the beginning, the meeting was quite volatile as the pool was closed, landscaping services had been terminated and utilities had been cut off. One vendor had even filed a lien on every home in an attempt to collect for his services. The owners were extremely upset. (It is important for people to be allowed to vent their anger and voice their fears and frustrations; they must have some release for their pent up feelings before they are able to listen and understand the reality and severity of the situation.) After much discussion, a five member Board was elected and many more volunteered to serve on committees. The Board and committees have worked closely and have held weekly meetings. Assessments are being paid, contracts reviewed, expenses have been reduced, and the pool is being readied to open. The majority of the past due invoices have been paid. These owners have spent a lot of time and effort to save both their community and their dream. These are just a few of the many encouraging stories of communities that have decided to set aside their differences and work together to make a reality of the community they envisioned. They are working together to rebuild the dream. Unfortunately owners in some other communities contact the news media. The few seconds of air time on the evening news, or the paragraph in the newspaper showing an unsightly community, do little or nothing to solve the problem. These owners sit by waiting for the developer, the builder, the management company, the bank or the government to solve the problem. Owners in the community need to pull together to help solve these problems, to revitalize their community and to insure that the dream is realized. If every community were to do this, the housing market in and around Atlanta, as well as across the country, would rebound much more quickly, help create jobs and refuel the economy. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.” n * The names of the communities have been changed to protect their privacy. 8 2009 Cai-georgia calendar of events *Tentative Calendar for the Georgia Chapter of the Community Associations Institute January Networking Luncheon 01/23/09 Location: Maggiano’s Buckhead 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM February Community Association Volunteer Leadership Course 02/05/09 Location: Doubletree Hotel, Roswell Mini Expo 02/05/09 Location: Doubletree Hotel, Roswell M-100 – Essentials of Community Management 02/26/09-02/28/09 Century Center Marriott CAI-Georgia Casino Night 02/27/09 Parker Young Construction 3:00 – 7:00 PM March Networking Luncheon 03/20/09 Location: Villa Christina 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM M-205 – Risk Management 03/26/09-03/27/09 Sheraton Galleria May Networking Luncheon 05/15/09 Location: 103 West 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM M-203 05/14/09 – 05/15/09 Location: TBD July Auction Luncheon 07/17/09 Location: Century Center Marriott 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM August M-201 08/13/09 – 08/14/09 Location: TBD M-350 08/27/09 – 08/28/09 Location TBD September CAI-Georgia Golf Classic 09/17/09 Windermere Golf Club Homeowner Education Class 09/29/09 Location: Sheraton Galleria Mini Expo 09/29/09 Location: Sheraton Galleria October Speaker Luncheon 10/9/09 Location: Divine Events 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM December Annual Awards Banquet 12/11/09 Georgia Tech Conference Center 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org Dorough & Dorough A T T O R N E Y S A T L A W COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION LAW SALLY LEWIS-BUTLER • • • • Assessment Collection Covenant Enforcement Contract Review LitigationDorough and& ADR Services Dorough A T T O R N E Y S A T L A W Providing Exceptional Service No retainers...No fine print Two Decatur TownCenter, Suite 520 125 Clairemont Avenue Decatur, Georgia 30030 Phone: 404-687-9977/Fax: 404-687-0011 www.dorough.com proud tocompany announce that our company has been recently awarded the property management contracts is proud to announce thatis our has been recently awarded the property management contracts for for MILL CREEK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC BRADFORD FARMS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. VICTORIA HEIGHTS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC THE ASHFORD CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC CITY HEIGHTS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. in Atlanta, Georgia 1421 PEACHTREE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. June 2009 TOWNSEND PLACE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. Proudly serving Community Associations since 1982 in Property Atlanta, Georgia Heritage Management Services, Inc Corporate 500 Sugar Mill Road Suite 200 B Atlanta, GA 30350 South Metro September7952009 Lanier Avenue Midtown th 360 14 Street Suite 201 Atlanta, GA 30318 Suite C Fayetteville, GA 30269 Savannah 138 Canal Street Suite 107 Pooler, GA 31322 Proudly serving Community Associations since 1982 (770) 451-8171 Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. gcobb@heritageproperty.com www.heritageproperty.com Corporate South Metro “Experience the difference” 500 Sugar Mill Road 95 Lanier Avenue Suite 200 B Suite C Atlanta, GA 30350 Fayetteville, GA 30269 (770) 451-8171 gcobb@heritageproperty.com www.heritageproperty.com 9 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 IS YOUR ASSOCIATION PROTECTED? The Pitfalls To Using Volunteers And Uninsured Contractors By Marilyn M. Ratzel, Esq. Lazega & Johanson LLC I n this economy, everyone is looking to shave a little off the bottom line. Community associations are no exception. Faced with increasing numbers of delinquencies as members struggle to make ends meet, many boards are looking for ways to tighten the budget and save a little money. It is not uncommon when associations are tightening the purse strings for boards to start looking at ways to economize on the provision of services to the community. In fact, it is increasingly common for associations to look to volunteers within the community or to individual contractors who may not be insured as opposed to established vendors to provide services to the community, such as landscaping or general maintenance. While this can be a great way to save a little money, not to mention serve as an opportunity to build community spirit, if a board does not fully understand the risks or take the proper precautions to protect the interests of the association, using volunteers or uninsured contractors can backfire on an association, costing the association thousands of dollars as opposed to saving thousands of dollars. Understanding the pros and cons can help a board make an informed decision and protect the association. Use of Community Volunteers: • Pros: Asking volunteers from the community to pitch in with some of the maintenance and/or beautification projects for the neighborhood can be a great way to foster community spirit and pride, not to mention the added bonus of saving money. • Cons: Homeowner volunteers do not carry insurance to protect the association in the event the volunteer is hurt during the course of his or her activities on behalf of the association. For example, if a volunteer falls off a ladder while cleaning the gutters on the association clubhouse, seriously injuring himself or herself, the association can be responsible for the damages incurred by the volunteer. While hopefully, the association will have sufficient insurance coverage in place to cover such an incident, a large claim can result in increased premiums or even cancellation of insurance. Additionally, notwithstanding insurance, all thoughts of community spirit go out the window in the event of a serious injury and the Association can be faced with a potential lawsuit for damages in the event of injury. Likewise, if the volunteer should inadvertently damage someone’s property or otherwise encroach on an owner’s rights during the course of his or her activities on behalf of the association, the association can be on the hook for the cost of the damages. For example, if the volunteer misunderstands the boundaries of association common property and clear cuts a portion of an owner’s lot, the association can be responsible for the damages to the owner’s lot. Finally, it should be pointed out that member volunteers may not always be covered by the association’s directors’ and officers’ liability insurance (“D&C Insurance”), which can also be a source of liability for an association. • Steps for Protection: There is nothing that an association can do to prevent a person from bringing an action against the association. However, there are some steps an association can take to help protect itself when using volunteers. Although it may seem contrary to the spirit of volunteerism, the best way for an association to protect itself is to have each volunteer sign a release and indemnification agreement, whereby the volunteer agrees to release the association from any liability in the event the volunteer is injured or otherwise incurs damages during the course of his or her activities (the release) and further agrees to cover any claims for damages caused by the volunteer during the course of his or her activities (the indemnification). Any such indemnification is only as good as the volunteer’s personal assets, but in many cases, it is better than nothing. Another way an association can protect itself in the use of volunteers is to limit the activities of volunteers to those that are the least harmful or likely to cause damage. For example, associations should avoid using volunteers for activities involving ladders, heavy equipment or chemicals. Lastly, an association should always make sure that its D&O insurance covers volunteer or committee activities so that it is properly protected in the event of a claim against the board or the association arising out of volunteer activity. Use of Uninsured Contractors: • Pros: Individual contractors can be much more inexpensive than established companies or national vendors. Also, an individual contractor can be or is often perceived to be more attentive to the needs of the association. • Cons: Similar to the cons presented by using volunteers, individual contractors are often uninsured, leaving the association on the hook in the event the contractor is hurt on the job or damages the property of others during the course of his or her activities on behalf of the association. Another significant drawback to hiring individual contractors and/or laborers is the application of worker’s compensation laws in Georgia. It comes as a surprise to many boards of directors that their association may be subject to damages under the state worker’s compensation laws, depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding the contractors being hired by the association. In a nutshell, under Georgia law, any company hiring three or more persons to perform work on behalf of the company, whether on a full time or a part time basis, is required to carry worker’s compensation insurance. Failure to do so can result in a significant expense for an association. For example, in an effort to save money, one Atlanta community hired four uninsured day laborers to clean out the community’s detention facilities. The board members provided the instructions and the equipment to the laborers. One of the contractors fell while using a chainsaw, nearly severing his leg. An action was brought against the association for several thousands of dollars in benefits under the state worker’s compensation laws. Under the facts, the laborer was entitled C ontinues on page 12 . 10 Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org Atlanta’s source for Association Community Management Creating a Sense of Community for more than 25 years Services tailored to the needs of your homeowner or condominium association. Full service management, accounting and maintenance 1100 Northmeadow Pkwy., Suite 114, Roswell, GA 30076 Voice: 770-777-6890 ext. 120, Fax: 770-777-6916 Visit our web site at : www.accessmgt.com 11 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 IS YOUR ASSOCIATION PROTECTED...from page 10. to recover from the association pursuant to the law, and the association was not sufficiently protected to avoid liability. • Steps for Protection. Clearly, the best means for protection for an association is to avoid hiring uninsured contractors and instead require each contractor to provide the association with a certificate of insurance guaranteeing that the contractor carries current insurance in sufficient amounts to address any claims that may arise as a result of the contractor’s activities. However, a certificate of insurance is only as good as the underlying contract so it is essential for the association to have a written contract with any individual contractor providing services. The contract should specifically provide that the contractor is required to carry insurance and that the contractor’s insurance is to cover his or her activities on behalf of the association. The association should also be named as an additional insured on the contractor’s insurance so in the event of damages, the association can make a claim directly as opposed to having to bring a third party action. If it is not practical for an association to avoid uninsured contractors or if the board determines that the savings outweigh the potential risks, the association should have the uninsured contractor sign a release and indemnification agreement similar to that discussed above with respect to community volunteers. Although a release and indemnification agreement would not prevent a lawsuit against the association, it can serve as a defense in the event of an action. Finally, any association hiring three or more individuals to perform services on behalf of the association and at the direction of the association should consider obtaining worker’s compensation insurance to ensure that the association is properly protected. The added cost of worker’s compensation insurance is minimal compared to the potential liability for the association in the event of an accident. The use of volunteers or uninsured contractors can be an effective method for saving money for an association. However, as with any financial decision, it is important for a board to weigh the benefits versus the risks when making decisions to use volunteers or uninsured contractors. If it is determined that the benefit outweighs the risks, the board should take the proper measures to protect its interests and those of the membership. By doing so, it will truly be a cost effective means of saving money versus costing the association a lot of money. n Congratulations to our latest CAI-Georgia Chapter CMCA Recipients! John Anderson Brookwood Place Unit Owners Association Robert Long RTL Solutions, Inc. Randi Anderson Community Management Associates John Lumsden Skylake Community Association Christine Barber Today Management Richard Maritt Neighborhood Management Associates Angela Basharat Today Management Susan Kay McDonald Today Management Dominic Brodbeck Homeside Properties, Inc. Janet Phillips McCreary Realty Management, Inc. Gail Creef Today Management Rosemary Riccio Neighborhood Management Associates Brundella Gross Today Management Annette Shaffer Andrea Haywood Access Management Bruce Hayworth Today Management Anthony Hill Greenlea Commons Community Association 12 Francine Sturges Today Management Kerri Van Pelt Continental Group, Inc. Mona Wheeler Four Star Community Association Management CAI-Georgia Luncheons (right) Chapter President Teddy Russell of the Russell Landscape Group presents the July Green Award to Jessica Hartmann and other staff from ValleyCrest Landscape. May & July Luncheons (below) Gavin Cobb of Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. & Dean Donald, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Bayview Community Services. (left) Program Committee Chair Mike Crew, CMCA, PCAM of Homeowner Management Services. (above) Jay Lazega of Lazega & Johanson LLC & Olen Robinson, CMCA of Heritage Property Management Services (above) Arlene Sicilano of Management Resource Center & Jenny Shepherd of Full Circle Restoration. (left) Dennis Hoffman, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Community Management Associates & Mike Beecham of Piedmont Management. (below) Buck Cannon of Cannon Construction Group, Rachel Carbley of DirecPath, and Rich Cannon of Cannon Construction Group. (above) Jay Plotkin of Heritage Property Management Services, Inc., Kathy Dorough of Dorough & Dorough, LLC and Morris Zoblotsky of Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. (left) Sue Shaw, CMCA, AMS of Union Bank, Doyle Jones, CMCA, PCAM of Capitol Community Management and Randy Lipshutz of Lipshutz, Greenblatt & King. (below) Riverside Property Management group. (right) Bob Russell of Russell Landscape Group leads another successful CAI-Georgia Calendar Auction. Savannah Luncheon (left) Benjie James of Russell Landscape Group & Emily Bohannon of GW & Associates at the CAI-Georgia Savannah Luncheon. (left) Everyone enjoys themselves at the Savannah luncheon. (above) Rob Stein of Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. speaks. (right) David Durgin of Coosawattee River Resort Association accepts the May 2009 Green Award from Chapter President Teddy Russell of Russell Landscape Group. (below) Doyle Jones, CMCA, PCAM of Capitol Community Management receives the Hall of Fame Award from Chapter President Teddy Russell of the Russell Landscape Group. (right) Pat Hillen, CMCA, PCAM of Community Association Banc and Gary Kornegay of Mopper-Stapen Management. (above) Fundraising Committee Chair Jeff Creecy of Greenwood Group Landscape. (left) Gary Griffin, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of GW & Associates speaks. (above) Steven Winter & Mark Bandy of Weinstock & Scavo, P.C., John Melvin of Rock Bridge Commercial Bank and Gary Griffin, CMCA, AMS, PCAM and Emily Bohannon of GW & Associates. (above) Lanier Coulter and Kathy Dorough of Dorough & Dorough, LLC and Pat Hillen, CMCA, PCAM of Community Association Banc. Take daily. Having Smartstreet on your team is like having time in a bottle. With banking, lockbox and payment processing services especially for community association managers, we take the headaches out of your everyday administrative tasks – and make them a lot easier to swallow. 8JUIRVBMJGZJOHEFQPTJUT"TLVTGPSEFUBJMT4VCKFDUUPDSFEJUBQQSPWBM3#$#BOL64" 4NBSUTUSFFUJTBEJWJTJPOPGBOEUSBEFNBSLPG3#$ #BOL3FHJTUFSFEUSBEFNBSLPG3PZBM#BOLPG$BOBEB5.5SBEFNBSLPG3PZBM#BOLPG$BOBEB6TFE6OEFSMJDFOTF3#$#BOLJTBUSBEFOBNFVTFECZ 3#$#BOL64" BOEJUTCSBODIPG¾DFTPQFSBUFVOEFSUIJTUSBEFOBNF .FNCFS'%*$ Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 It Can Happen! Dealing with the real problems community associations face in a surreal and light hearted way By Jason LoMonaco, Esq. Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. L ast issue “It Can happen” showed how an association overcame the scarlet letter of “selective enforcement” and enforced its rules and regulations going forward. This issue “It Can Happen” has decided to include a practical guide for the homeowner, board member or manager who finds him or herself in the unenviable position of sitting in Court for an entire day. Often owners, board members and managers are stumped by the convoluted and legalistic ramblings of judges. This confusion creates more legal work for attorneys and higher costs for the association. Below is a translation dictionary of common judicial phrases to assist the average Joe in understanding the technical terms and phrases judges often use in the Courtroom. While the experienced lawyer understands judicial terminology and can divine meaning from even the most obscure utterances by the Court, this is no easy task for the layman. Pay attention and enjoy. The Court: “Are you an Atlanta Lawyer.1” Translation: Your country lawyer opponent starts on third base. “I am the judge here.” Stop talking. Owner: “Your honor my name is” / The Court: “Ma’am I’m letting them in to inspect!” Don’t let your bathtub leak on your downstairs neighbors. “Isn’t that the same as Blockbuster imposing daily late fees?” The fines will be cut. “The law doesn’t necessarily apply here in Magistrate Court.” Don’t sue in Magistrate Court. “English lessons aside, the correct interpretation of term. . .” Stop trying to sound smart. “How about lunch?” Has this hearing really taken three hours already? “The Law is clear. . .” The Association wins. “In the interests of justice. . .” The owner wins. “I haven’t heard anything that would justify. . .” Start talking. “We’ll let the jury decide.” Nobody wins. “I strongly urge. . .” Someone is about to be held in contempt of court. “Correct counselor, but how do you think the jury would view that?” Settle the case! “So your saying the ACC approved a garage with the same square footage as your house?” The unapproved garage will be torn down. [sotto voce] “Where’s the money?” Get the money back in the account by 5:00 P.M. or someone is going to jail. “That’s all well and good counselor, but why is this matter in Court” I’m a Republican. “That’s all well and good counselor, but is this really fair?” I’m a Democrat. “That’s all well and good counselor, but why should she pay if she can’t use the pool?” I live in a homeowners association. “But the past is the past.” You can enforce the rules going forward. “So it looks like a ‘crack house’. . . ” Owner led out of the courtroom in handcuffs. “The little guy is hurting.” You’re a big guy. I’m cutting your attorney’s fees. “Is this really the deal you want to enter into?” Go to trial, homeowner. I’ll cut the attorney’s fees. Jeff Hope President/Owner P.O Box 1656 Dallas, GA 30132 (O) 770-443-2391 (C) 404-583-6734 www.ActionCommunityMgmt.com jeffhope@ActionCommunityMgmt.com 16 “I have a condominium and I pay my assessments.” I’m awarding everything to the Association… deadbeat! “I’ll take this under advisement and issue an order.” I’m going to take two weeks and find an excuse to cut the attorney’s fees. “Pretermiting the inapposite juxtaposition proffered beyond cavil by the decedent’s intestate” Who am I and why am I here? Can it happen? Yes it can, and it has. Well, not that last one. n 1 Being an obvious New Yorker, I once made the mistake of responding, “No judge, I’m much worse. . . “ Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org 770-643-6029 www.aaapaint.com AAA Painting & Staining is one of Metro Atlanta's leading painting and renovation contractors. Our business began in 1984 and we have been assisting customers by providing quality service and excellent product selection. . s r e t t a m e z si perience agers = tons of ex man licensed property 63 + s er ad le on si + 8 divi 400+ associations Community Management Associates started with 7 associations. And with more than 400, the same principles that guided us then guide us now. By providing superior customer service, offering cutting edge technology and through good old-fashioned hard work, CMA continues to be an industryleader in metro-Atlanta and throughout the country. Whether it’s for a small condominium or a master planned neighborhood, contact us today to learn how to put our property management experience to work for your community! at a time! ...building Community one association Community Management Associates, Inc. 1465 Northside Drive, Suite 128 Atlanta, GA 30318 §: 404.352.5470 ext. 25 / 800.522.6314 ¨: 404.355.9561 {: dhenning@cma-atlanta.com Þ: www.cma-atlanta.com 17 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 An Alternative Collection Method: Retaining Insurance Proceeds Intended for the Delinquent Owner’s Unit By Ashley Miller Lanier Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. A lmost all community associations have struggled at some point with collecting assessments from delinquent owners. For most of these delinquent owners, the traditional collection process is effective for bringing in the dollars. This includes collection letters, liens, collection phone calls and, when necessary, filing a lawsuit to obtain a money judgment against the owner. However, for a few owners, traditional collection efforts are ineffective. Those owners will digs in their heels, ignore the association and simply refuse to pay. To combat this problem and obtain payment, board members are implementing alternative plans to show delinquent owners that there are consequences for their failure to pay assessments. Collection policies and plans are important because an association’s board of directors has a fiduciary duty to the owners within the condominium or community development to collect assessments and properly handle the association’s financial affairs. Associations are exploring all avenues and creating multi-faceted plans for collecting from delinquent owners. One method that is gaining popularity involves how the association handles monies received from the insurance carrier for a claim on a delinquent unit. Imagine how frustrating it would be for a board to have money in their hands and have to turn it over to a delinquent with no payment on the outstanding balance to the association. Unfortunately, this is what happens when insurance proceeds are processed on a delinquent owner’s unit. A claim is made, monies received, and unless the association has a specific provision in its governing documents authorizing the board to apply the funds differently, the board must provide the money to the delinquent owner. Associations are starting to move forward and change their documents to deal with this issue. Some associations are amending their declaration to provide that the board may utilize insurance proceeds attributable to one unit to reduce that unit’s delinquency before handing the remaining money over to the owner. Associations that have implemented this program find it to be a “Those owners will digs in their heels, ignore the association and simply refuse to pay.” successful way to collect a delinquency in these rare situations. For those associations that desire to adopt this provision, it is recommended that the board first discuss this issue with the association’s insurance carrier to ensure that application of this collection method would not violate the terms of the policy. Additionally, it is recommended that the amendment provide that any surplus remaining after application of the proceeds to any delinquency shall be paid by the association to the affected owner to make the needed repairs. The owner would then be obligated to use personal funds to make up any shortfall in the repair costs not covered by the remaining insurance proceeds. Associations should be aware that a declaration provision of this nature has never been considered in a court of law, which means that the industry is not certain whether a judge would find a provision of this nature to be a reasonable collection method. As with many amendments that similarly have not been considered in a court of law, the Board should evaluate the benefits against the risks associated with this amendment. To assist in this evaluation, each association should discuss its individual needs and the risks with a legal professional before moving forward with an amendment of this nature. n -1,,"1 Ê9"1,-Ê7/Ê+1/9 People’s Choice Award SOUTHEASTERN FLOWER SHOW A A MALTA A T L A N T A’ S L A N D S C A P E R E S O U R C E ", ÊUÊ,- /ÊUÊ" xÓäÊ*>iÀÊ ÕÀÌÊUÊBuford, GA 30518 Phone: 770-831-7741 Fax: 770-271-7853 www.unlimitedlandscaping.com 18 GEORGIA LIGHT COMPANY TROPHY BEST IN SHOW ROBINSON WHIMSICAL TROPHY Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org CAI National Conference in New Orleans... (below) Robin Steinkritz, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Heritage Property Management Services and his wife Andrea Steinkritz. (above) Teddy Russell of Russell Landscape Group and CAI-Georgia President and wife Courtney Russell. (left) Mike Crew, CMCA, PCAM of Homeowner Management Services and Randi Anderson of Community Management Associates. (above) Bill Seatz & Leisa Ballew of Association Management Advisory Group. (above) Gary Griffin, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of GW & Associates and his wife Debbie Griffin. (above) Ken Koushel, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Homeside Properties and his wife Margie Koushel. (left) Dean Donald, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Bayview Community Services. (right) Pete Paulos of Vertex Business Services, Laura Lazar, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Eagle Management and Darren Thurmond, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Atlanta Community Services. 19 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 20 Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org Drought Officially Over — Conservation is still a Must! By Mike Shaffer Shaben & Associates G eorgia has officially declared the end of the drought and the reinstitution of “Non-Drought” Outdoor Water guidelines on June 10, 2009. However, it is important for homeowner associations as well as individual homeowners to verify local and regional water guidelines that may differ from State guidelines. The Metro Atlanta Landscape & Turf Association (MALTA) outlines the Non-Drought Rules currently in effect for Georgia on their website www.maltalanscape.com. Check your local county’s website for local water management guidelines. Although the drought has officially ended, Georgians continue to have an obligation to conserve natural resources; the economic impact is substantial. Given the current economy, this eco-friendly alternative is also a cost effective measure. Below are a few suggestions for conserving this valuable resource: • Invest in faucets with aerators. • Update sprinkler heads and nozzles with more efficient models and install rain sensors to automatically shut off the system when there is sufficient precipitation. • Reduce unnecessary evaporation by setting sprinkler systems to water in the early morning hours. • Use 3” of mulch around plantings to conserve moisture. • Install electric hand dryers. This not only reduces water usage but waste. • Lawns require approximately one inch of water per week. It is healthier for the lawn if it is watered once a week for a longer period of time rather than more frequently to encourage deeper root growth. • Using an irrigation system, isolate zones used for seasonal flower beds from zones for existing mature plantings in order to individualize the water requirements for each area. • Consider xeriscaping when replacing or installing new plants to minimize the need for supplemental irrigation. • Consider using native plants where possible which tend to not only require less irrigation but are also more disease resistant. The Georgia Native Plant Society (www.gnps. org) is a good resource for information on native plants. As property managers, we have an obligation to conserve our natural resources and assist and advise communities on methods of accomplishing this. The above suggestions represent several avenues for reducing water consumption and saving money. Additional resources to aid in this effort are as follows: www.epa.gov/watersense www.georgiawatercouncil.org www.conservewatergeorgia.net www.uga.edu/aboutUGA/water_tips n 21 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe?: Finding a Better Framework for Decision-Making by a Board of Directors. By Michael E. Leavey, Esq. Dorough & Dorough, LLC www.dorough.com H omeowner and condominium associations in Georgia are usually established as nonprofit corporations pursuant to the Georgia Nonprofit Corporation Code (“Nonprofit Code”). The board of directors is the decision-making body of any community association and must manage and operate the association and all of its assets and enforce any applicable covenants. The governing documents of any community, such as the declaration of covenants and the bylaws of the association, usually allow the board of directors some amount of discretion in making the various decisions that arise. These decisions may involve consideration of whether to approve proposed exterior modifications in the community, how association money is spent, how certain common expenses are allocated among the members, whether and how to enforce covenants in certain situations, whether to allow exceptions to a leasing cap contained in a declaration of covenants, and when and how to perform the association’s maintenance obligations. With each decision of the board comes the potential for challenge by a homeowner who may be adversely affected or who otherwise disagrees with the decision. Although a community’s governing documents may allow discretion in decision-making, they do not address the standard by which a decision would be judged should their decisions be challenged. Fortunately, Georgia statutes and case law give some guidance into this process. Section 14-3-830 of the Nonprofit Code sets forth the general framework for a director’s actions: “A director shall discharge his or her duties as a director, including his or her duties as a member of a committee: (A) In a manner the director believes in good faith to be in the best interests of the corporation; and (B) With the care an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would exercise under similar circumstances.” Board members of homeowner-controlled community associations are volunteers with other obligations and generally have a finite amount of time and energy they are able to dedicate to their duties. The Nonprofit Code authorizes directors to rely on information, opinions, reports, or statements, including financial statements, in coming to decisions, if prepared or presented by officers or employees of the association or by professionals engaged by the association, such as legal counsel or a certified public accountant. In relying on information and/or documents given by individuals who are not on the board, a director must believe such individuals to be reliable and competent and must not have knowledge contradictory to the information presented. The standard for judicial review for any discretionary action taken by a board of directors pursuant to a declaration of restrictive covenants; that C ontinues on page 24 . 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Set nets Replace fallen signs Amenities Janitorial/24hr Maintenance #LUBHOUSE2ENTAL#LEAN5Ps%NTRANCE,IGHTING 4ENNIS7INDSCREEN2EPAIRs0AVILIONS0LAYGROUNDS Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 EENY, MEENY, MINY MOE?...from page 22. is, whether a court will allow challenges to such an action to be considered by a jury, was established by the Georgia Supreme Court in the context of a homeowners association: “Where… the declaration delegates decisionmaking authority to a group and that group acts, the only judicial issues are whether the exercise of that authority was procedurally fair and reasonable, and whether the substantive decision was made in good faith, and is reasonable and not arbitrary and capricious.” Saunders v. Thorn Woode Partnership, 265 Ga. “With each decision of 703, 704 (1995). This standard has also been applied by the the board comes the Georgia Courts in the context potential for challenge by of condominium associations. See Atlanta Georgetown Condo. a homeowner who may be Assoc., Inc. v. Chaplin, 235 Ga. App. 460, 461 (1998). adversely affected or who Since the standard for review for discretionary otherwise disagrees with action taken by a board of directors was first articulated, the decision.” Georgia courts have allowed homeowners to challenge decisions made by a board of directors where the homeowners offer evidence that the decision is “procedurally unfair and substantively arbitrary and capricious,” (for example, if an association is not enforcing its covenants uniformly throughout the community, and the homeowners association offers no evidence to the contrary.) See Southland 24 Owners Assoc., Inc. V. Myles, 252 Ga. App. 522 (2001). Although there is no method of predicting whether a court in Georgia would find a particular decision made by a board of directors to a proper exercise of discretion or an “unreasonable, arbitrary, and capricious” decision subject to challenge, a homeowners association will not be able to adequately defend a decision made by its board of directors unless it offers some kind of evidence supporting the board’s decision. See King v. Chism, 279 Ga. App. 712 (2006) and Wright v. Piedmont Prop. Owners Assoc. Inc., 288 Ga. App. 261 (2007). Therefore, it is critical to keep good minutes of meetings at which decisions are made. The minutes should reflect the various points of view expressed and show that a vote was taken. In conclusion, the governing documents of homeowners and condominium associations usually grant the board of directors discretion in how the association and the community are operated and managed. In coming to decisions regarding the community, board members may rely on outside information and documentation. For any decision made by a board of directors pursuant to discretionary authority granted under a community’s governing documents, the board should examine why it is coming to its decision and should record its reasoning in well documented minutes so that, in the event that challenge is made, there is sufficient evidence to defend the board’s actions. Of course, each decision of the board is distinct and may present unique challenges. A board of directors may want to consult with the association’s legal counsel for assistance in establishing a general procedure the board can follow when coming to decisions regarding the community and reflecting those decisions in the association’s records. n Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org ® www.criterium-engineers.com ® Georgia Commons Hits YOUR Target Market. To Advertise Call (609) 655-2000 or E-mail: brainerdray@comast.net ntact o C e s a e l P , CPA h c a B l a e N o.com c m j b @ h nbac Serving the Multi-Family Industry Nationwide Specializing in Exterior Painting, Carpentry, Siding & Roofing 3883 Rogers Bridge Road, Suite #403-A Duluth, GA 30097 770/995-8787 • 888/522-9288 • 770/995-8881 Fax Email: custsrv@amerapaint.com • Licensed • Fully Insured to $2 Million 25 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 Plan the Project: Don’t Just Bid it Out By Gary J. Caruso, R.S. P.E. Criterium-Caruso Engineers P lanning is the first step in any construction project. All repair projects start with a problem that must be resolved properly. The complexities of the problems vary from a simple painting project to a water intrusion problem, requiring a multi-disciplinary approach. In both cases, a solution must first be developed through the use of professional expert consulting. Depending on the project, you should have a professional engineer (PE), architect or construction expert involved from the beginning. These professionals can help design, plan and manage the project. Their advice, along with a competent contractor, will make the project run as smoothly as possible. Once the best solution to the problem is identified, a scope of work is developed and bids are solicited. Without a clear picture of the problem and a well thought out remedy, the project should not be started. Using contractor proposals in an attempt to identify the solution without a clearly defined scope of work can be a serious mistake in the process. This path usually leads to confusion, a less than satisfactory result and possibly legal complications. The owner of the property or his representative should utilize the best information possible to develop the scope of work. The information that is needed may come from various professionals, specialty contractors and manufacturers or trade organizations, depending upon the work item under consideration. Once a sound scope of work is developed, it is time to plan the solicitation of bids. Plan the format of the bid form that you will be sending out later so it is readable and easy to follow. It will be invaluable in analyzing the bids later. Preparing a bid requires a clear picture of the desired result as well as the means that will be needed to get to that result. The bid process generally seeks to determine who is the best contractor to perform the desired work for the most competitive dollar amount. The bidder with the least dollar amount HMS “Once the best solution to the problem is identified, a scope of work is developed and bids are solicited.” bid is not necessarily the best one for the project. The bid document should answer many questions for the contractor and owner. For instance: • Where does the work begin and end? • Will specific materials be specified for use or will equal products be allowed? Who approves the use of any equal products? • Is there a requirement for a certain performance level on the completed project? Does the owner want any specific warranties? • If no products are specified, who selects the materials that will be used? • Will the work have to be completed on a certain date? Are there times when the contractor cannot work? Homeowner Management Services Inc. Providing Management Services for Homeowner Associations Financial Services Facility Management Organizational Planning Property Management Membership Services 24 Hour Emergency Service “We Custom Tailor Our Services to Your Needs” 1260 Old Alpharetta Rd, Alpharetta, GA. 30005 voice: 770-667-0595 fax: 770-667-6315 www.hms-inc.net 26 Michael Crew, PCAM, CMCA President mike@hms-inc.net Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org • Will some or all of the work be performed on a time and material basis? If so, on what basis will the costs be determined? Many more details regarding payment schedules, legal stipulations and the method of resolving disagreements should be covered in the contract once you have selected a contractor. Careful attention to a clear scope of work will make the contract preparation phase much easier. The final scope of work should be incorporated into the contract either directly or by reference. Consult your legal advisor or use standard contract forms. Once you receive several bids from experienced contractors, it is time to analyze the bids. If you have prepared a bid form outlining the general scope of work items, the analysis will be simplified. Review the best two or three proposals and ensure that they are bidding on the same scope of work. Be careful to note any exceptions on the bids as well as any cost saving suggestions by the contractors. These suggestions are frequently very valuable and can be a source of significant savings. A brief discussion with representatives of the contractors who submitted the best proposals is recommended to ensure that they understand the project and the scope. As always, check references and insurance if you have not already done so. On large projects, you should determine if the contractors are bondable or check them out on a financial reporting service such as Dun and Bradstreet. Congratulations. You have made a careful selection of the best contractor to perform the work on your project. Unfortunately, no amount of planning can eliminate all of the problems and misunderstanding involved in any construction project. However, good planning in the beginning will keep surprises to a minimum. n for Residential, Mixed-Use & Office Condo Association Management 675 Seminole Avenue, Suite 109 Atlanta, GA 30307 404-389-0090 (phone) 404-249-8092 (fax) manager@dgfmgmt.com www.DGFManagement.com Inspections & Consulting, LLC Don’t Let Moisture Leave You Hung Out To Dry! Your Building Envelope & Moisture Intrusion Experts x x x x x x x Building Envelope Inspections Hard Coat Stucco, EIFS, Brick, Siding, Mold & IAQ Inspections Moisture Intrusion Investigation Quality Control Consulting & Interim Inspections Professional Detailed Photo Reports Assessment of Reported Damage & Repair Cost Analysis Corrective Actions & Remedial Repair Programs NATIONALLY CERTIFIED: · EDI · AWCI · NAHB · ESA · NEFSI · AHIT · Dryvit Care Specialist ASHI, CAI & BBB Member Annual CAI-Georgia GOLF CLASSIC September 17, 2009 At Windermere Golf Club Please contact the chapter office for further information. (770) 736-7233 or www.cai-georgia.org Phone: 770-794-1494 Fax: 770-794-1496 drc@drcinspect.com www.drcinspect.com Ɣ Available 7 Days A Week Ɣ Priority Scheduling Ɣ GREC Certified School Don’t Delay - Call DRC Today! FREE Continuing Education Classes Also Available! 27 Georgia Commons • Second Quarter 2007 Going Green By Robert A. Zappulla, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP On behalf of the Georgia Green Committee Did you know that the Georgia CAI chapter was the first to establish a GREEN committee nationally? D carbon emissions by the applicants, yet there remains one constant link id you know that the national CAI Foundation for Community between them; utilizing multiple “green” procedures or strategies. Association Research has recently published a Best Practice By now, you’re probably reviewing in your mind some of the things that Report on being green, “Report #9, Green Communities”? Did you or your group does already that are “green” and wondering exactly what you know that the city of Atlanta has developed a mandatory has been done by the applicants for a comparison. Below is a short list of “Atlanta Sustainable Building Code” starting in 2010 that will require all new some strategies implemented by the 2009 applicants: mid-rise residential construction to be LEED certified and by 2012 it will • Replace incandescent lights bulbs with high efficiency compact fluorescent require renovations and new mid-rise residential construction to be certified LEED Silver or equivalent? Did you know that according to CNN Money. • Replace exterior flood lights with solar powered LED lights com, as part of the recent federal stimulus program, more than $100 billion • Replace old hot water heaters with high efficiency tank-less water heaters dollars is allocated to “green” technologies and services? In fact, if you watch • Replace standard thermostats with programmable thermostats any major network channel, it is nearly impossible to avoid ads for “green” products or services. It is clear that the time has come, and “going green” is • Replace LP fuel pool water heating system with solar and air to water no longer a fad. Instead, it is pervasive and affects all of our daily lives. heating system OK, before we lose some readers, please be aware that “going green” • Implement paper, plastic, aluminum and cardboard recycling programs doesn’t mean trading in a car for a horse and buggy or planning weekend • Recycle old computer parts, cell phones, ink cartridges and batteries tree hugging sessions. There is no single definition to explain exactly what it is, but generally speaking, “going green” comes in many “shades” and • Implement digitizing of incoming mail, electronic invoicing and utilizing means many different things to different people. It covers a very wide scope email when possible of “green” ideas, materials and magnitude of implementation that helps pro• Group site visits and appointments by location to reduce travel mote the following: • Harvest rainwater and retain storm water onsite • Reduction of waste through recycling and reuse of materials • Install a rooftop garden • Reduction of harmful materials, ozone depleting gases and chemicals • Replace low gas mileage fuel vehicles with high fuel efficient and hybrid • Protection of the earth’s natural resources from waste or contamination vehicles through environmentally friendly techniques and materials • Utilize “green” materials and chemicals with low VOC’s With this in mind, over a year ago, the GREEN committee began promot• Reduce the use of plastic dishes and supplies by utilizing recyclable paper ing a “Going Green Award.” The competition is open to any and all Georgia products CAI members who are willing to document their “green” initiatives. The award recognizes a group or individual commitment to “going green” and is presented • Recycle spent supply containers and re-use for future needs to six winners throughout the year at each of the chapter luncheons. The award • Train staff for LEED Accreditation is not intended to create a bias towards a singular service or product. In fact, • Purchase “Carbon Offsets” through TerraPass for a “carbon balanced” it is preferable that submissions do not tout the “greenness” of a specific brand, business but rather explain generically how or what a group is doing to accomplish the common goal of “going green.” GREEN committee members, who vote on the • Purchase recycled office products and materials merits of the applications, range from community managers to roofers to bank• Upgrade attic insulation ers to landscapers and many other industry professionals. All have specialized • Purchase high efficiency HVAC equipment expertise in diverse fields, yet share a common inspiration, the desire to promote • Purchase high efficiency windows and doors the integration of environmentally friendly practices and materials within their business areas and to inform other CAI members of the plethora of “green” There are likely many “green” strategies on the above list that you or your alternatives that are available. group are currently doing, and probably others that you do that are not on To date, many diverse applications have been submitted by our memberthe list at all. It would be greatly appreciated if you shared with us and the ship, all of which have documented their groups’ environmentally friendly membership the things that your group does to “go green.” If you would like practices, methods or use of “green” materials. Applications have come more information on applying for the “Going Green Award,” please email from small to large homeowner associations, management companies, and executivedirector@cai-georgia.org to request an application. industry professionals. Submissions have varied widely with regard to scope, The GREEN committee would like to thank those who have submitted their magnitude and implementation. The submissions also vary greatly in initial applications to date. We appreciate your support and look forward to learning cost from the less expensive implementation of a paper-recycling program to more of the great things the rest of our membership is doing to “go green.” n the expense of purchasing new Hybrid or fuel-efficient vehicles. Some applications have even documented incredible cost savings, upwards of hundreds of thousands of dollars for their efforts. However, regardless of cost, industry or locale, it is clear that many in our CAI-Georgia Green Award Winners chapter recognize the benefits which “going green” can have on protecting the environment without decreasing the bottom line May 9, 2008.................. Arborguard Tree Specialists & DGF Management of their financials. July 18, 2008.................. Walden on Lenox Condominium Association, Inc. The key recurring strategy amongst applicants is the synergy September 26, 2008 .... Nature Scapes of “green” practices being implemented. We have seen many December 5, 2008........ Eagle Management Services & East Coast Property Management instances of singular innovative approaches to address wasted energy or utilizing “green” technologies and practices to reduce March 20, 2009............. Taylor Commercial, Inc. May 15, 2009................. Coosawattee River Resort Association, Inc. July 17, 2009.................. ValleyCrest Landscape 28 Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org Sharper Image Management Consultants, Inc. • Property Management • Facility Management • Financial Services • Organizational Planning • Design Consulting • Quick Homeowner Response • Customized Software Program “Boutique Style Management” We will customize our management program for your association. Our certified managers have an average of 20-25 years experience in Property Management and Design. • Porter Services • 24-Hour Emergency Service (770) 973-5923 Fax (770) 973-5911 www.simcionline.com 29 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 TANGLED BRANCHES: THE LAW OF BOUNDARY LINE TREES By R. Douglas Goldin Rome & Goldin, P.C. www.hoa-attorneys.com E ven in the urban areas, Georgia is known for its abundance of trees. With such a lush environment, inevitable legal questions arise regarding trees near the property lines. In the context of community associations, the typical issues revolve around homeowners’ Lots adjoining the common areas. What if a homeowner’s tree falls onto the association clubhouse during tornado level winds? What if the homeowner says they are not paying for damages? Can the association trim the branches of a homeowner’s tree that overhangs into the common areas? Does an adjoining homeowner have to send a certified letter to the association demanding the removal of a dangerous tree? Could the association still be held liable for damages if the letter is not sent? Trimming Limbs and Roots. The law allows you to maintain anything on your side of the property line. Therefore, you can trim limbs that overhang on your Lot, but only up to the Lot’s boundary. In addition, you are also allowed to cut back any root intrusions. The exception is if the cutting of the limbs or roots could kill the tree. When there is a question as to whether this may be the case, an arborist should be contacted for an opinion. If the tree is located directly on the property line, the neighbors have joint ownership of the tree and are each responsible for maintenance of the portion of the tree that is located on their part of the boundary. Who is Responsible for Damage Caused by a Fallen Tree? If it is an ‘Act of God,’ the owner of the tree is not responsible for any damage to the adjoining property. On the other hand, if your neighbor knew (or should have known) the tree was dangerous, they will be liable for negligence for not resolving the situation. For this reason, the vast majority of cases in Georgia revolve around whether or not the tree’s owner should have known that it was diseased, dying or dead. This is where the erroneous idea comes from that you must send your neighbor a certified letter, informing them that the tree is dangerous. The legal myth is that if you do not send the letter, the adjoining owner will not be responsible for any damage if the tree falls. Although such a letter can be helpful evidence, each property owner has an independent duty to maintain their trees. In Georgia, urban residents are held responsible for conditions that a ‘reasonable person’ would have been ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! CAI Certified Reserve Specialists Capital Reserve Analyses Property Condition Assessments and Evaluations Restoration Plans and Details for Permits Complete Site Reviews Restoration Bid Packages Construction Monitoring Condominium Conversion Reports and Drawings 3985 Steve Reynolds Blvd., Bldg. A Norcross, GA 30093 (770) 923-1122 Fax: (770) 923-0099 E-mail: rayengineering@ray-engineering.com Web: www.ray-engineering.com 30 aware or should have been aware of if properly inspected. The Question of Insurance Coverage. An insurance policy is a private contract between the insured and the insurance company. Coverage will be determined by the terms of the policy. In spite of the fact that you and your neighbor are not legally responsible for an Act of God, a policy might cover the damage, along with the cost for removing the tree. Even if you are alleging your neighbor was negligent in maintaining the tree, your neighbor and their insurance carrier may disagree. In this situation, you may want to consider making a claim under your own policy. This way, you will get paid for your damages (assuming it is covered) and your insurance carrier can decide later if they want to pursue your neighbor and their insurance company for reimbursement. Additional Requirements of Covenants. So far we have addressed the common law regarding boundary line trees, but covenants may contain additional requirements beyond the common law. The covenants could require the homeowner to obtain the association’s approval prior to cutting down trees on their Lot. Conversely, they may obligate the homeowner to remove any dead or diseased trees or even require owners to keep the trees properly trimmed. Being a good neighbor requires a joint understanding of each party’s rights and obligations regarding boundary line trees. Hopefully, this will create a cooperative approach to solving any problems. If a problem should arise, the association should seek advice from its attorney for specific legal advice to its specific fact situation. n ? T I A W WHY OS! CALL THE PR 60 AIR CONDITIONING – HEATING Tune-ups – System Replacement Service & Maintenance Agreements TRENCHLESS PIPE RELINING MINUTE SERVICE PLUMBING 24hr Service Drain Cleaning Waterline Repair and Replacement Hot Water Heaters Toilet Repairs All Faucets and Fixtures Slab Leaks Backflow Testing/Prevention SEWER & SEPTIC SERVICES High Pressure Jetting Video Sewer Inspections Drainfield and Septic Repair/Replace Lift Station and Septic Pumping FREE ESTIMATES You Approve the Price BEFORE We Start. INSURED CR007626 LICENSED MP207808 NO EXTRA CHARGE CHECKS ACCEPTED SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNTS www.rooterplus.com NIGHTS, WEEKENDS, HOLIDAYS. Drug Free Workplace WE VALUE YOUR TIME USUALLY ON THE JOB WITHIN 60 MINUTES. 770-888-1931 Georgia Commons • Third Quarter 2009 Today Management, Inc. Helping you protect the value of your home while enhancing the quality of your life. Before After 2000 2001 2002 Today Management provides community association management and developer services to Atlanta and the surrounding area. Institutional Property Since 1984, our sole focus has been to deliver performance that enriches communities and enhances the lives of the people we serve. 10904 Crabapple Road • Roswell, Georgia 30075 P: 770.998.2924 • F: 770.552.7992 www.todaymanagementinc.com apartment/condominium repaint specialists tes! stima Free E Fully I nsure d! Providing Top Quality Painting, Drywall & Carpentry Services for 20 years •National Travel •On-site Supervision •Elastomeric Coatings •All Work Guaranteed •Guaranteed Completion Dates •Coatings Analysis & Specifications •Deck/Breezeway Waterproofing MULTIFAMILY • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL In Georgia: 678-482-6373 Outside Georgia: 800-858-2604 32 We’ve Been Making Atlanta Bloom For 16 Years. Kart’s Commercial Landscaping offers: • Dependable Landscape Maintenance • Exceptional Seasonal Flowering and Turf Programs • Uncompromising Customer Service • Servicing the entire Atlanta area for 16 Years • We Accept Visa and Mastercard KART’S LANDSCAPE SERVICES Phone: (770) 923-3142 • Fax: (770) 381-8944 www.kartslandscaping.com Community Associations Institute—Georgia Chapter • www.cai-georgia.org CAI-Georgia Tennis Tournament... (below) Meg Baer of Access Management. (left) Kim Gaddis, Floyd Dickens, & Julie Howard of Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C. (left) Laura Guilmette of Unique Environmental. (below) Page Porter & Donnie Taylor of A Tow Atlanta. (above) Robin Steinkritz of Heritage Property Management Services, Inc. & Jami Kohn of Weinstock & Scavo, P.C. (below) Tennis Committee Co-Chair Merrill Walker, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Homeside Properties. (right) Bob Powser, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Access Management & Todd Guilmette of Unique Environmental. (above) Kerrie Napoli and Ross Haynes of Taylor Commercial. (left) Mike Comer of Homeside Properties & Derry & Chiaki Duncan of Unlimited Landscaping. (below) Mary Masi of Community Management Associates. (above) Tennis Committee Co-Chair Judy Dreher of Dreher Insurance & Sandy Depa, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Homeowner Management Services. (right) CAI-Georgia Tennis Tournament attendees. 35 PRSRT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID BRAINERD PO Box 2943 Peachtree City, GA 30269 CONTRACT PRICING OR HOURLY PRICING
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