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IMPORTANT
BOARD
UPDATE
APRIL 2016
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At Heritage, we understand that board leadership is often changing. As your proud partner, we are here to help. Keeping volunteers up to date with our industry is just one of the ways we make the board's work easier.
Always check our updates for the latest information and be sure to let us know how we can serve you even better!
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In this Issue
Help Achieving Quorum
Vendor's Corner: Storm Drain Maintenance
Investing Association Reserves
CAI Features Heritage as an Industry Leader
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Board Training Sessions
Thank you to all that attended our most recent
Board Training
Sessions!
More classes will be announced
soon.
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NEED A QUORUM?
Anyone who has ever tried to establish a quorum in an Association knows it can be very difficult! We reached out to all our managers for tips that may help increase attendance. Keep in mind that different techniques may work well for some, but not for others; therefore, the personality of the community will affect the overall success of each suggestion. These are some of the ideas we have found to be effective.
Of course, it is always easier to attract a crowd when there is a contentious issue. When addressing areas of particular concern, it is important to mention the topic in the meeting notice. For example, the letter could read: "The board will present their research on the XYZ issue and we look forward to considering everyone's opinion" or "the recent increase in dues will be discussed and the board will review the most current reserve study." When homeowners know that they will have a voice about a serious problem or proposed change, they will be more likely to attend. Some communities have extended invitations to guest speakers such as police officers, or construction experts. Anyone who can present an objective point of view gives credibility to the board's position.
With that being said, we always encourage our communities to make every event, even an annual meeting, full of positive energy. We are all on the same team, and community initiatives, whatever they may be, are designed to protect the value of everyone's investment....
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TIP OF THE MONTH
Looking
for a break from board work?
Atlanta has no shortage of beautiful gardens, but for a total change of pace this season try visiting Providence Canyon. Known as our very own little Grand Canyon, this state park is near Lumpkin, Georgia. The views are spectacular and the cooler weather makes the hike even more fun!
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INVESTING ASSOCIATION RESERVES
In our discussions with boards, Heritage constantly emphasizes the need to build the appropriate level of reserve funds. One question that comes up frequently is how best to invest the reserve funds. The three main goals of investment for associations should be to minimize risk, make sure funds are liquid, and to earn a decent rate of return. Associations can minimize risk by taking the appropriate steps.
First all funds must be placed in a federally insured institution. The Association's main goal should be the protection of its principle while earning some interest on that principle. For the vast majority of Associations this means investing in money market accounts and CDs. Another major goal of the investment strategy should be liquidity, i.e. having access to your money when you need it. Investing in money market accounts and CDs where appropriate will help accomplish this goal, while also earning interest on the money invested.
The BOD is responsible for choosing its investments. Heritage can provide a list of institutions we deal with frequently and their current rates, but the ultimate decision lies with the board. Once the board makes a decision on investing money, this decision should be communicated in writing to Heritage. Heritage will attempt to do as much of the leg work in getting the account set up as possible. Once an account is set up, the statements should always be addressed to Heritage so that we can properly record all transactions in
your financials.
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CAI FEATURES HERITAGE
AS
AN INDUSTRY LEADER!
In our continued commitment to education, Heritage is a proud member of the Community Association Institute Leadership Circle.
We were recently interviewed and asked about why participation in this organization is so important to us.
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VENDOR'S
CORNER
Storm Drain Maintenance
Compliments of
Mr. Rooter Plumbing
Storm Drain are an important part of the overall maintenance of your community. If neglected, they can become backed-up and flooding and/or water damage may occur.
Here are a few tips to help avoid potential problems.
- Clean catch basins, storm drains inlets, and other conveyance structures just before the wet seasons to remove sediments and debris accumulated during this summer.
- Immediate repair of any deterioration threatening structural integrity such as ; storm drain inlets , catch basins and drain pipe (needs visual inspection)
- Install sediment trapping devices
- Conduct inspections more frequently during wet seasons for problem areas where sediment or trash accumulates more
- Conduct quarterly maintenance, clean and repair as needed
For Questions or Comments
on this subject contact:
Mr. Rooter 770-676-1437
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REMINDER OF HELPFUL LINKS
ARE YOU A NEW BOARD MEMBER or
NEW TO THE HERITAGE FAMILY?
For our Orientation Package:
Heritage Board Member
RESOURCE CENTER
QUALITY CONTROL
Customer Satisfaction is our #1 Concern!
Please send an email to the address below if you are experiencing any
immediate concerns with the quality of our services, so that we can quickly resolve the issue!
QualityControl@HeritageProperty.com
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Our motivational thought this month was
inspired
by Spring...
"A flower does not think of competing
with the flower next to it.
It just blooms
"
- Zen Shin
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Questions or Comments
Please Contact
Wendy Brant
Director of Business Development
wbrant@heritageproperty.com
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Heritage Property
Management
Corporate Office
500 Sugar Mill Road
Building B, Suite 200
Atlanta, GA 30350
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