In the Boardroom
In an ongoing effort to provide solutions to critical member needs, CACM offers the "In the Boardroom" feature article in our quarterly Vision magazine. These articles are intended to provide key trends, tips and practical advice to assist managers and their association clients with meeting, conduct and governance issues in their board rooms.
We encourage our manager members to print any applicable "In the Boardroom" articles and include them in their next board packet.
Board Member Leadership
If board member candidates understand the basic ground rules of true community service and civic duty before being elected, they also understand they must hold themselves to a higher standard. An effective code of ethics will empower board members, both individually and collectively, to practice loyalty, commitment and trust.
Good leaders stand up for their values when faced with tough decisions. Good business includes teaching, coaching and mentoring those who need it. Discover a few guiding principles that will steer anyone toward good decisions when facing large and small dilemmas in the workplace.
A reminder on the key traits of exceptional boards, this article can be used as an introduction to board training and discussions on governance issues, as well as discussions on board roles.
Board Roles
It's important that boards of directors understand their job is one of governance -- not management. Effective boards govern; ineffective boards manage, or at worst micro-manage the community manager and other contractors on the property. This article clarifies the roles of board members, directors and officers in the community association.
This article provides insight into the various activities of officers, board members/directors and committees for a community association. For example, can a director be an officer or can an officer be a director? The article provides clarification on the duties and responsibilities for each of these roles, information on how often the board should meet and insights on the importance of committees.
Use this article to explain the importance of the board members' and director's fiduciary duty. This article is a perfect segue into the Board Member Code of Ethics.
Management
Associations are better managed when managers are educated on state-specific laws and operate with standards of practice and ethical behavior. This article includes key elements board members should utilize when hiring a polished, professional community manager or management firm.
Operations
Board members are often asked to create a resident directory for members of the community. On the surface, a printed directory may seem like the most logical way to go. But, there are some alternatives that may be a better fit for your community.
Policies & Planning
Boards should be using a framework that guides them in decision-making, and Policy Governance© is a viable framework. Discover how implementing this governance model and focusing on ends statements can improve the efficiency of the board and association management.
Board policies and resolutions are the guides for board actions and results. This article provides the manager with reasoning that can be used in explaining the long-term purposes behind creating good policies and resolutions. The article also provides board members with an introductory list of policies and resolutions to consider.
Implementing a planning process is the key to defining objectives and creating a cohesive and positive board culture. This article explores strategies that will assist a board in reaching the end goal of one voice through successful teamwork.