At Associa Desert Resort Management, our top priority is keeping all aspects of your community running seamlessly. Whether it’s our top-tier management, secure financials, on-demand maintenance, or advanced technology, our complete and comprehensive suite of services makes leading and living in a managed community better and easier than ever. Leave the hard work to us, so you can focus on what matters.
Accomplish more with Associa Desort Resort Management. Contact us today! Robin
In high school, Mike was caught digging a pool behind the football field… by hand! Today he remodels pools! Was there ever any doubt?
Remodeling pools and Back yards since 1969
Qualit y work at a fair price
Lic #896061 C-53
NEW AND RENEWING MEMBERS
NEW BUSINESS PARTNERS
KC'S 23 1/2 HOUR PLUMBING AND AIR CONDITIONING
Mr. Kyle Russum (760) 327-8718 kmrussum@aol.com
RENEWING BUSINESS PARTNERS
ACCURATE TERMITE & PEST CONTROL
Mr. Isaac Camacho (949) 837-6483 isaac@accuratetermitecontrol.com
ADAMS | STIRLING PLC
Ms. Candace Lee Schwartz (800) 464-2817 cschwartz@adamsstirling.com
ADVANCED RESERVE SOLUTIONS, INC.
Ms. Roxi K. Bardwell, AMS, PCAM, RS (510) 693-1620 rbardwell@arsinc.com
AUTOMATION PRIDE
Mrs. Dana Pride (760) 423-6567 danapride@automationpride.com
BPR INC.
Mr. Thomas Edelson (855) 804-7336 thomas@bpr1.com
EAGLE ROOFING PRODUCTS
Mr. Lane Carroll lanec@eagleroofing.com (800) 300-3245
Mrs. Julie Anne Reese, CMCA, AMS (760) 674-2242 jreese@thereserveca.com
NEW HOMEOWNER LEADERS
Terri Langhans
LAGUNA DE LA PAZ HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Mr. Bruce Quilligan
Mr. Larry Saward
Mr. Manfred Schmidt
POLO CLUB MAINTENANCE ASSOCIATION
Mr. John Bugalla
Mr. Cliff Chirls
Mr. Steve Delavan
SEVEN LAKES HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION, INC.
Mr. Ken Featherston
Ms. Terrie Kenney
Mr. Jim Klawiter
Mr. Rick Lyons
Ms. Nancy McPike
Ms. Marion Minor
RENEWING HOMEOWNER LEADERS
Mark Davis
BELLA VIDA AT SHADOW HILLS
Mrs. Joyce Gaurre
Ms. Angela Hines
Ms. Jenna Sanchez
Mr. Randall Tackett
CASA DORADO AT INDIAN WELLS ASSOCIATION
Mr. Bruce Bahneman
Mr. Tom Joyce
Ms. Phyllis McKinley
HIGHLAND SPRINGS COUNTRY CLUB HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Ms. Patricia Aspan
Ms. Debbie Cave
Mr. Lee Fashempour
Ms. Ruth Jetmore
Ms. Bonnie Landa
Ms. Rosemarie Peterson
Mr. Mike Rodriguez
Ms. Colleen Satragni
Mr. Don Stuart
Mr. Kevin Tariske
Ms. Rhea Weber
LAGUNA DE LA PAZ HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Ms. Linda Baughman
OAK HILLS ESTATES OWNERS ASSOCIATION
Ms. Deborah Davidson
Ms. Diane Stuart
PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Ms. Heather Andrews
Mr. Ron Crisp
Ms. Maria Demme
Ms. Patricia McCabe
MEAGHAN GAFFNEY-HOWE, CMCA, AMS CHAIR
The Gaffney Group, Inc.
ASHLEY LAYTON, PCAM, AMS, CMCA CO-CHAIR
Premier Community Association Management
JENNIFER JAMES, ESQ. CO-CHAIR
HOA Legal Services
MIKE TRAIDMAN
BOARD LIAISON
Mira Vista at Mission Hills HOA
CHRISTOPHER BAIR
Securitas Security Services
SIERRA CARR, CMCA, AMS, CCAM, PCAM Associa Desert Resort Management
JAMIE PRICER
Coachella Valley Water District
JASON SAVLOV, ESQ. Adams | Stirling, PLC
JOHN SCHUKNECHT LaBarre/Oksnee Insurance
STEVEN SHUEY, PCAM Personalized Property Management (Ret.)
CHRIS SIGLER, B.S.C.E, CDT
C.L. Sigler & Associates, Inc.
LORENA STERLING, CAFM Community Association Financial Services
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER
RODNEY BISSELL Bissell Design Studios, Inc. rodney@bisselldesign.com (714) 293-3749
PHOTOGRAPHY
MATTHEW LAWTON, CIC, CIRMS, EBP OCV Insurance Services matt@ocvinsurance.com 760-774-2099
JAY JARVIS jayj92260@gmail.com 571-235-5420
ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS OR ADVERTISING INFORMATION HOALiving@cai-cv.org
SUBSCRIBER SERVICES
The Coachella Valley HOA Living Magazine is a publication expressly prepared for association leaders, managers and related business professionals of the Community Associations Institute. Members are encouraged to submit articles for publishing consideration. All articles accepted for publication in HOA Living are subject to editing and rewriting by the HOA Living Committee.
UPCOMING
Choose Educated Business Partners
Julie R. Balbini, Esq., Fiore Racobs & Powers, A PLC
Micha Ballesteros, Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, Inc.
Roxi K. Bardwell, Advanced Reserve Solutions, Inc.
Rodney Bissell, Bissell Design Studios, Inc.
Gary Butler, Asphalt MD's
Linda Cardoza, Alliance Association Bank
Will Cartwright, Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, Inc.
Katy Krupp, Fenton Grant Mayfield Kaneda & Litt, LLP
Matt Lawton, CIC, CIRMS, OCV Insurance Services
Larry Layton, Kirkpatrick Landscaping Services
Alison LeBoeuf, Sherwin-Williams
Mike Mastropietro, OCBS, Inc.
Chris Meyer, Asphalt MD's
Greg Morrow, Eagle Roofing Products
Fran Mullahy, Conserve LandCare
Bridget Nigh, BEHR Paints
Matt Ober, Esq., Richardson Ober DeNichilo LLP
Lily Ortega, Pro Landscape
Chet Oshiro, EmpireWorks
Jed Pannell, Distinctive Restoration
Mallory Paproth, SCT Reserve Consultants
Elisa Perez, Esq., Epsten, APC
Jay Powell, Ben's Asphalt
Dana Pride, Automation Pride
Mike Rey, LaBarre/Oksnee Insurance Agency
Kelly Richardson, Esq., Richardson Ober DeNichilo LLP
Brent Sherman, Animal Pest Management Services, Inc.
Liz Williams, AMS Paving
Taylor Winkle, Roof Asset Management
Bevan Worsham, AMS Paving
Jolen Zeroski, First Citizens Bank Become
PRESIDENT
JULIE BALBINI, ESQ.
Managing Attorney, CV Office, Fiore Racobs & Powers, A PLC
PAST PRESIDENT
CLINT ATHERTON, PCAM
General Manager, Sun City Palm Desert
PRESIDENT-ELECT
MARK DODGE, CMCA, AMS Branch President & CEO Associa Desert Resort Management
SECRETARY
BG (RET) GUIDO PORTANTE Director, Mira Vista at Mission Hills HOA
TREASURER
JOLEN ZEROSKI, CMCA
VP, Regional Account Executive First Citizens Bank
DIRECTOR
ERIN KELLY
AVP, HOA Senior Manager Banc of California
DIRECTOR
BRUCE LATTA, CMCA
Manager, Indio Properties/President, Desert Cities HOA Council
DIRECTOR
MICHELLE LOPEZ, CMCA, AMS Director of Community Management, Powerstone Property Mgmt.
DIRECTOR BRIDGET NIGH
Regional Account Manager, BEHR Paint Company
DIRECTOR
LILY ORTEGA, CMCA Office Manager, Pro Landscape
DIRECTOR
MIKE TRAIDMAN President, Mira Vista at Mission Hills HOA Commissioner, CAMICB
CONTACT US
CAI Coachella Valley 49950 Jefferson Street, Suite 130-117 Indio, CA 92201 (760) 341-0559 | www.cai-cv.org
CAL LOCKETT Executive Director clockett@cai-cv.org
The materials contained in this publication are designed to provide our members with timely and authoritative information; however, the CAI Coachella Valley Chapter is not engaging in the rendering of legal, accounting or other professional types of services. The Coachella Valley Chapter has not verified and/ or endorsed the contents of these articles or advertising. Readers should not act on the information contained herein without seeking more specific professional advice from legal,
hope all of you had a wonderful summer, and that you had time to relax and get prepared for “the season” to start. The September issue of HOA Living Magazine focuses on budgets, a daunting task this year. CAI-CV wants to thank the Magazine Committee and all the contributing authors for their help getting us through the budget process. As a reminder, HOA Living can be sent out to all your homeowners to help them understand the complexities of managing HOAs, especially the need to increase assessments. Simply send out this link: HOA Living Magazine - CAI-CV.
Our Education Committee has tackled another timely topic for the Coachella Valley, Aging Infrastructure, which will be the focus of September’s lunch program. Guest speakers Chris Sigler, B.S.C.E., CDT (C. L. Sigler & Associates) and Jolen Zeroski, CMCA (First Citizen’s Bank), will tell us all about dealing with and planning for aging infrastructure. More information can be found on page 22. Please mark your calendars for Friday, September 20, 2024, at 11:15 a.m., at Sun City Palm Desert.
Board members and managers are invited to a workshop on Tuesday, October 8th that will address RFPs (Requests for Proposals), contracts, and the associated legal liabilities. And, of course, there will be an opportunity to ask our experts questions. Here is the link to sign up:
On Friday, October 18th, you are invited to attend our Educational BREAKFAST Program & Mini Trade Show on the topic of Election Nightmares and Board Recalls. Mandie Chlarson (NLB Consulting and Elections) and I will be the guest speakers. We will discuss recall petitions, cumulative voting in a recall election, the nominations process, disqualification of candidates, election rules, and making sure you have the proper notices. See page 23 for more information. Sign up here: https://www.cai-cv.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1872558&group=
Ole! The Oktoberfest Committee is changing things up this year with an amazing OKTOBER-FIESTA planned at the Pro Landscape’s beautiful nursery. There will be plenty of beer, axe throwing, and great food. I hope to see you all there on Friday, October 25th. See page 19 for more information. You can sign up here: https://www.cai-cv. org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1869486&group=
The Chapter’s annual Legislative Update will be held as a lunch program at Sun City Palm Desert on Friday, November 15th. If you are a business partner, please consider joining us for the largest trade show of the year. We will bring you up to date on legislation and case law changes that will impact the HOA industry. You don’t want to miss this important program. To participate in the trade show, see page 36. To register to attend, follow this link: https://www.cai-cv.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1872574&group=
Sign up for CAI-CV events and educational programs at: Community Calendar - CAI-CV. Also, you can use the links in the Monday Update (emailed to all members every Monday). Please see page 36 for upcoming events and programs.
On behalf of the CAI-CV leadership team, we wish you a safe and enjoyable September and look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!
Julie
RANCHO MIRAGE RACQUET CLUB
By Ashley Layton, PCAM, AMS, CMCA
Nestled in the picturesque city of Rancho Mirage, the Rancho Mirage Racquet Club (RMRC Owners Association, Inc.)
is a testament to successful planned unit developments. Established in 1979, this thriving community is home to 95 meticulously designed homes, offering residents an unparalleled lifestyle in the heart of Southern California.
The Rancho Mirage Racquet Club offers a variety of floor plans, each priced in the mid-to-high $600,000 range, reflecting the club’s commitment to quality and sophistication. The community’s monthly assessment of $950 grants residents access to a host of exceptional amenities, enhancing their living experience.
Residents can enjoy a range of recreational facilities, including the clubhouse, lake, fitness center, and a racquetball court. For those passionate about racquet sports, the club boasts nine tennis and pickleball courts, alongside five sparkling pools and inviting spas.
The Rancho Mirage Racquet Club has made significant upgrades over the years, with continuous
improvements contributing to its charm and functionality. A board member, Mike, shared his experience, “We have been full-time owners at the Rancho Mirage Racquet Club for just over 14 years, and we have seen outstanding improvements during that time, including updated tennis courts, newly added pickleball courts, replastered pools, and a completely remodeled clubhouse with a
"FOR THOSE PASSIONATE ABOUT RACQUET SPORTS, THE CLUB BOASTS NINE TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL COURTS, ALONGSIDE FIVE SPARKLING POOLS AND INVITING SPAS."
state-of-the-art kitchen. It is a wonderful community.”
The association’s commitment to maintaining and improving the property is evident in their recent projects. They have replaced 52,200 square feet of turf with desert landscaping to support water conservation efforts. Additionally, they resurfaced seven of the nine tennis courts, with two of these now dedicated to pickleball. This year, Asphalt MDs completed a comprehensive overlay of approximately 185,340 square feet of asphalt, further enhancing the community’s infrastructure.
The Rancho Mirage Racquet Club is not just about luxurious amenities, it’s also a vibrant and engaged community. With a
dedicated board of five members and eight active committees—including Emergency Preparedness, Social and Welcome, Finance, Fitness, Architectural, Building and Grounds, Racquet, and Landscape—the association fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration.
The social aspect of the community is equally dynamic, with numerous activities and events held throughout the year. Many homeowners are actively involved in various committees, contributing to a friendly and welcoming environment.
The enthusiasm for the community extends to the association’s management team. Their professional community manager, Jennifer Carroll, CMCA, AMS,
PCAM, with 16 years of experience, praised the Rancho Mirage Racquet Club, stating, “This is the best community I have managed in my 16 years’ experience. I truly love this community, the board, business partners, and, of course, homeowners. I have managed this community since April 2014 and look forward to managing many more years.”
The Rancho Mirage Racquet Club exemplifies a harmonious blend of luxury, community engagement, and forward-thinking improvements. The association is managed by Associa Desert Resort Management’s Jennifer Carroll, CMCA, AMS, PCAM. Jennifer can be reached at JCarrol@drminternet.com or 760.346.1161.
Ashley Layton, PCAM, AMS, CMCA is Vice President of Premier Community Association Management. She can be reached at (760) 345-2449 or email her at ALayton@brcpcam.com. www.brcpcam.com
Professional Full Service Community Association Management
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Melissa Layton, PCAM 928-763-7368 x 1001 mlayton@brcpms.com
Ashley Layton, PCAM 760-345-2449 x 1009 alayton@brcpcam.com
Rhonda Drews, PCAM 760-345-2449 x 1013 rdrews@brcpcam.com
The Art of Strong Passwords: From History to Modern-Day Cybersecurity
In the 1960s, the concept of a password was born at MIT as a way to safeguard shared access to computer files. As technology advanced, so did the sophistication of passwords, evolving from simple words and numbers into complex combinations of characters meant to secure our most personal and sensitive data. Today, passwords are integral to our digital lives, protecting everything from social media profiles to banking accounts. However, with the rise of cybercrime, it’s crucial to understand how to create and manage strong passwords to avoid being compromised.
TYPE AND STYLE
The golden rule of passwords is that longer is stronger. A good password should be a minimum of 12 characters, including multiple uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols (!*).
Avoid using personal information like birthdays, addresses, or pet names, as hackers often use social engineering tactics to try and guess these details. Instead, opt for random phrases or combinations that are not easily associated with you or your personal information.
TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION (2FA)
Another essential security measure is two-factor authentication (2FA). With 2FA, after entering your password, you’ll
"The
golden rule of passwords is that longer is stronger. A good password should be a minimum of 12 characters, including multiple uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols (!*)."
need to confirm your identity with a second method, such as a code sent to your phone. This additional layer of security makes it significantly harder for hackers to gain unauthorized access to your accounts, even if they have your password. Also make sure your cell phone provider does not transfer your e-sim on your phone to another device unless you have approved. Many cell phone providers have safety layers and secondary passcodes to ensure that it is YOU that is requesting the change.
PASSWORD MANAGERS
Password managers are a valuable tool in this battle for security. These applications securely store all your passwords in an encrypted vault and can generate random, strong passwords for you. Using a password manager reduces the temptation to reuse passwords, which is one of the riskiest practices when protecting your accounts.
www.Siglercm.com to
PASSWORD AUDITING
Conducting regular password audits is also an important habit. This involves reviewing your passwords to ensure they haven’t been compromised in any data breaches. Changing your passwords every six months can be beneficial, particularly for accounts that store sensitive information.
PERSONAL DATA REMOVAL TOOLS
There are also companies that can help you to ensure that your personal information is not being sold through data brokers (Incogni.com is an example). They are sophisticated companies that can help you remove your data. Remember the old ‘Do not call’ lists?
SAFELY STORING PASSWORDS
When storing your passwords, avoid writing them down or keeping them in easily accessible places. Instead, trust your password manager to do the heavy lifting, or use an encrypted file storage solutions like Dropbox or Google Drive.
SCAMS AND PHISHING ATTACKS
Online password scams and phishing attacks have grown increasingly sophisticated, with fraudsters cleverly tricking users into giving up their login credentials by posing as legitimate entities. Always make changes to your accounts directly through official websites. Never click on links in emails or texts claiming to need an urgent update to your account information. These can be phishing attempts designed to steal your identity. Ultimately, keeping your accounts secure is about more than just setting a strong password. It requires ongoing vigilance, smart practices like 2FA, and regularly reviewing your security measures.
Stay safe, vigilant, and protected. Knowledge is power!
Christopher Bair is the Business Development Manager at Securitas Security Services in Palm Desert. He can be reached at: (760) 779-0728 or by email at Christopher.Bair@Securitasinc.com.
Reviewing Insurance Limits and Board Responsibilities
By John Schuknecht, CMCA, AMS
In an attempt to not bore you with the redundancy of another article related to increasing insurance premiums and the factors driving costs ahead of this budget season, in this article I intend to provide some additional information and things to consider more specific to your community’s policy limits, and board responsibilities.
CHECK YOUR LIMITS!
1. General Liability
The Davis-Stirling Act requires associations with fewer than 100 units to carry a limit of $2,000,000 per occurrence. Associations with 100 or more units are required to carry $3,000,000 per occurrence. These limits are the MINIMUM requirements per the civil code. I mention this because all too often I will be asked to review an account and see that the general liability limits do not meet these minimum requirements, meaning the association is out of compliance with the civil code.
"THE ASSOCIATION MUST INSURE THE COMMUNITY TO 100% OF ITS TRUE REPLACEMENT COST.”
2. Property Limits
Almost every set of CC&Rs I have looked at has a statement in the insurance section that says something along the lines of “the association must insure the community to 100% of its true replacement cost.” Many associations are failing to increase their property limits to true replacement costs and have a low total insurable value. Other associations are aware of the low valuation and are choosing to keep limits low to keep premiums down. This could be detrimental in the event of a claim. It is always a good idea to check with your attorney but based on the language in some CC&Rs, an argument could be made that the association is not compliant with the CC&Rs if the property limits are not up to 100% replacement cost.
3. Directors and Officers (D&O)
Much like general liability, to avoid personal liability in excess of the association's insurance limits, associations are required to maintain certain limits pertaining to the amount of units within the community. One hundred or less units need to carry at least $500,000 in coverage and for 100 or more units, $1,000,000 is the minimum.
4. Crime/Fidelity Bond/ Employee Dishonesty
Davis Striling requires associations to carry at a minimum three months’ worth of assessments plus the full balance of your reserve account. Things change throughout the year, we complete projects, have special assessments, transfer funds, etc. so it is important to review your limits to make sure you are compliant.
I mention these items for your consideration for three main reasons as we head into budget season:
1. Checking your limits and increasing them may lead to a premium increase and vice versa. It is also important to make sure you are not over-insured. Decreasing limits (while making sure to stay compliant) can help reduce insurance premiums.
2. All boards have a fiduciary responsibility to the communities they serve to adhere to the DavisStirling Act and the association’s governing documents. So even if increasing your limits does result in an increase in premium, you will have fulfilled your fiduciary responsibility. Do not neglect your fiduciary responsibility to avoid a slight assessment increase.
3. Non-compliance with required limits can lead to lending issues should someone be trying to purchase into or refinance within your community.
Boards are required to adhere to the “Business Judgment Rule.” “The Business Judgment Rule (BJR) creates a presumption that directors' decisions are based on sound business judgment.... Corporate directors are presumed to have acted in good faith, on an informed basis, and in the honest belief that the action taken was in the best interest of the corporation.” (DavisStriling.com). As a result, if you are unsure or have questions, consult with your HOA professionals.
These items mentioned above are perfect reasons for you to consider working with an insurance broker/agent who specializes in HOA insurance (if you are not already). Doing so is the easiest way to adhere to the BJR.
John Schuknecht, CMCA, AMS is an Account Representative at LaBarre/Oksnee. John can be reached at 657-207-4789 or JohnS@hoa-insurance.com
WELCOME ABOARD
By Meaghan Gaffney-Howe, CMCA, AMS
Welcome aboard, Precision Roofing and Waterproofing! Specializing in residential, commercial and homeowners association roofing, Precision Roofing and Waterproofing’s team of licensed roofing contractors has the expertise and skill necessary to handle any project, no matter the size or complexity. They take pride in providing top-quality workmanship and using the best materials to ensure the durability of their solutions. With a focus on attention to detail and a commitment to excellence, they strive to exceed your expectations and deliver results that will stand the test of time.
Precision Roofing holds a California State General Contractors Roofing License and is part of the National Roofing Contractors Association and Roofing Contractors Association of Southern California.
Brandon Decker is the contact for Precision Roofing and Waterproofing. Brandon can be reached at 949-751-7321 or brandon@ precisionroofingoc.com.
Precision Roofing and Waterproofing
2 McLaren, Suite G Irvine, CA 92618
Please visit www.precisionroofingoc.com for more information on the services that are offered by Precision Roofing and Waterproofing that can benefit your community!
Meaghan Gaffney-Howe, CMCA, AMS is a community manager and Vice President of The Gaffney Group, Inc. Meaghan can be reached at meaghan@thegaffneygroup.net.
Brandon Decker
Detecting Reasonable QUALITY Services
By Maria Angel, CLM
“Reasonably priced” is a very common phrase, and most of us have used it at one time or another while shopping, but “reasonable,” like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. We all want “reasonably priced” goods and services; that is, prices we find reasonable, i.e., good value and affordable. However, it’s easy to scream at price tags when you are the buyer, but you have a very different perspective when you are the seller. This is especially true when you are selling services as opposed to physical goods. It’s often easy to see the differences between “reasonably priced” material goods when a potential buyer can experience the product through the physical senses. But it can be much harder to acknowledge the differences when it comes to services. In either case, however, those differences can be reduced to one word: QUALITY.
But quality itself, like wisdom, comes at a great cost to its possessor. Wisdom usually only comes with age and the pain of experience. Quality is strikingly similar! It has sacrificed years in the pursuit of becoming quality. It submits itself to every legal, federal, state, and local requirement, obtaining permits, licenses, and certifications, and paying its taxes. Quality sets high standards, uses the best tools of the trade, keeps current with education and the latest innovations. Quality has innate value— just how much, though, is often a matter of which side of the cash register you’re standing on.
Part of the discrepancy lies in the fact that quality can be difficult to quantify; difficult, but not impossible. There is a difference between flying first class and economy. And a reason why tickets to a Broadway play are priced differently than those to the local community theatre. And for every downtown mechanic working out of his garage willing to review your check-engine light, there is a certified mechanic ready to do the same for several hundred dollars more. It’s a contest as old as wages: the layman versus the professional,
and the street vendor versus the master. Each has something to recommend it, and each has a tradeoff. The layman comes with his price, the professional with his experience, the master with his craft and artistry. Quality is often recognized for its legitimacy. Legitimacy is known by playing by the rules. The payoff for legitimacy is accountability. And there is a cost for them all. In today’s incredible smorgasbord of marketable options, of rising taxes, and inflation, it can easily become a knee-jerk reaction to reach for the generic brand, to go with the lowest bidder, and hope for the best. But the science of life has a way of catching up with us. The dichotomy of the American market is that we are all consumers, but we are also, every one of us, merchants. We are all selling something, be it a product or a service. Yet such is human nature that while the value of what we are selling is obvious to us, it requires greater patience and presence of mind to acknowledge the value in someone else’s product.
Whether you’re a painter, a roofer, an attorney, a gardener, a banker, or a certified lake manager, you strive to bring satisfaction to your clients, to perform the job well. You have poured out your time and energy into mastering your craft, with the hope, the expectation, and the prayer that your work will deliver back its blessing to you. You do what you do because you want to. Because you love it. And because you believe that other people will one day see the value in your work and affirm that you are worth the price tag you are asking for. That you are QUALITY. And your prices are reasonable for the quality you offer.
Maria Angel is a Certified Lake Manager (CLM) providing aquatic treatments and lake management services Maria works for Diversified Waterscapes, Inc. (DWI) and can be reached m6a2@dwiwater.com
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
TITLE
FIESTA BEVERAGE SPONSOR
Bank & Trust
Corp.
T-SHIRT SPONSORS
Racobs & Powers, A PLC
SPONSOR
$28 for Managers & Homeowner Leaders (Late Registration and Walk-ins $40)
$70 for Non-sponsor Business Partners
(Late Registration & Walk-ins $100) OCT 25th
• Souvenir T-Shirts & Steins
• Axe Throwing
• Oktoberfiesta Games & Competition
• Locally Brewed Beers
• Fiesta Buffet
• Assorted Ice Cream Desserts
LIGHTING
DESSERT SPONSOR
Paints
FIESTA FOOD SPONSOR Reliable Landscape Tree Care
PHOTO SPONSORS
Accurate Termite & Pest Control
BEHR Paint Company Roseman Law, APC
DJ SPONSORS
CM2 & Associates Inc.
Precision Construction & Painting
SCHOLARSHIP SPONSOR
Barre/Oksnee Insurance Agency
Top Ten Claim Drivers
By John Schuknecht, CMCA, AMS
Be aware of the most common non-profit community association directors' and officers’ liability claims to mitigate the risk. Take a look at the top reasons community members bring a claim against the association and learn from what others have experienced so that this year can be your best.
1 CLAIM DRIVER DISCRIMINATION
• Discrimination claims can appear in many ways so take care and consider a homeowner’s request carefully.
• If you grant one homeowner’s request, but deny another homeowner’s similar request, it can lead to a discrimination or selective enforcement claim.
• Consider a homeowner’s request for an assistance animal to make sure you do not violate the Fair Housing Act (FHA) or the Americans with Disability Act (ADA).
• Engage in the interactive process with the homeowner when in receipt of a request for accommodation.
2 MAINTENANCE/REPAIR OF COMMON ELEMENTS
• Maintaining the community is vital to the enjoyment and safety of the homeowners.
• Conduct regular inspections to help identify necessary maintenance needs.
• Caring for and repairing common areas can be costly so prepare by funding reserves adequately.
• Consider conducting a reserve study to help determine what funds are needed in the short and long term.
3 IMPROPER ASSESSMENTS
• Make sure assessments are fair and applied to all equally.
• Provide sufficient notice when special assessments are levied.
• Be transparent as to why a special assessment is being made.
4 ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW DECISIONS
• Respond promptly to architectural requests from homeowners.
• Act consistently when making decisions.
• Follow the association’s bylaws as they appear in the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (the CC&Rs).
5 BREACH OF CONTRACT
• Follow your fiduciary duties as a board member which require you to put the association’s needs above your own.
• Make decisions based on sound judgment.
• When entering a contract with an outside vendor, research who will do the best job for the best price.
• Understand your financial and contractual responsibilities and obligations.
• Act responsibly and honestly in handling association funds to avoid fraud, theft or misappropriation allegations.
• Record financial transactions to avoid allegations of misrepresentations.
• Provide notice to a homeowner of entry to prevent a claim of invasion of privacy, trespass and/or wrongful entry. 7 HARASSMENT
• Treat homeowners fairly and avoid singling any homeowner out.
• Have a procedure to address complaints timely.
• Work to create an environment where homeowners feel their concerns are addressed.
• Communicate with homeowners.
• Maintain proper records.
• Know the state and local legal requirements that should be followed when conducting board elections.
• Consider engaging the assistance of counsel in drafting election guidelines.
• Follow election procedures as outlined in the association's by-laws.
• Be aware of what is written in the association’s newsletter, website and any material distributed within the community.
• Consider creating a forum for disputes to be heard and addressed.
• Set standards as to what behavior will not be tolerated.
John Schuknecht CMCA, AMS is a former community manager who currently works as an Account Executive for LaBarre/Oksnee Insurance. John can be reached at 657-207-4789 or JohnS@hoa-insurance.com
By Meaghan Gaffney-Howe CMCA, AMS
Daniel Goodrich, CCAM-LS AR, AMS, PCAM, LSM
Dan Goodrich will be celebrating his 25th year in the community association industry in March 2025. A five-year resident of the Coachella Valley, Dan’s career in the industry began when he was hired onsite at Sierra Dawn Estates in 2000, where he has been employed ever since.
Becoming a member of Community Associations Institute a few years after starting out, Dan joined to further his education in the industry and by 2007 earned his CMCA credential. Since then, he has also earned his AMS, PCAM and LSM through CAI and CCAM-LS and AR through the California Association of Community Managers. Over the years, Dan has given back to the Chapter through volunteering on numerous committees, including Professional Managers, Website, Business Partners, and Golf, where he is currently serving as committee co-chair.
Dan and his wife Ruth have been married for 17 years in November and share two dogs: a Golden Lab named Roscoe, and a Maltese named Daisy. His hobbies include Rotary, humanitarian projects, sporting events, and golf. Growing up, Dan credits various baseball coaches with providing him with inspiration and motivation, pushing him to do his best and work as part of the team. Simon Sinek’s “Find Your Why” is the book that Dan is currently reading.
When asked for a favorite quote or saying, Dan replies, “Service above self. Happiness is not by chance but by choice.” Dan, thank you for your membership in CAI-CV and for your dedication to the CID industry!
Meaghan Gaffney-Howe, CMCA, AMS is a community manager and Vice President of The Gaffney Group, Inc. Meaghan can be reached at meaghan@thegaffneygroup.net.
Friday, September 20, 2024, 11:15 a.m.
CAI-CV EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM & MINI TRADE SHOW
AGING INFRASTRUCTURE
GUEST SPEAKERS
Chris Sigler, B.S.C.E., CDT
President & CEO,
C.L. Sigler & Associates, Inc.
Jolen Zeroski, CMCA
Vice President & Regional Account
Executive, First Citizens Bank
TRADE SHOW SPONSORS
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CLICK HERE OR SCAN QR CODE TO REGISTER
Lunch and Trade Show Included 11:15 AM TO 1:30 PM
$100 Business Partners
$42 Managers
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Sun City Palm Desert 38180 Del Webb Blvd., Palm Desert, CA 92211
HANDOUT SPONSOR
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CLAC SPONSOR
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Friday, October 18, 2024, 8:00 a.m.
CAI-CV EDUCATIONAL BREAKFAST & MINI TRADE SHOW
ELECTION NIGHTMARES AND BOARD RECALLS
Recall Petitions, Cumulative Voting in a Recall Election, the Nominations Process, Disqualification of Candidates, Election Rules, Sending Out the Proper Notices.
GUEST SPEAKERS
Julie R. Balbini, Esq.
Shareholder & Managing Attorney for The Coachella Valley Office, Fiore Racobs & Powers, A PLC
Mandie Chlarson, Principle
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Breakfast and Trade Show Included 8:00 AM TO 10:30 AM
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WELCOME ABOARD
Roberto Antonio Flores & Claudia Rodriguez
By Meaghan Gaffney-Howe, CMCA, AMS
Welcome Aboard, Hidroklear LLC! A minority-owned Native American enterprise with over 35 years of expertise, Hidroklear offers innovative and sustainable solutions for pool water treatment across diverse regions including Colombia, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Spain, and the United States. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, and operating in North Palm Springs, California, Hidroklear is dedicated to advancing water conservation and environmental stewardship through cutting-edge technologies and specialized training. Their offerings include high-quality, eco-friendly chemical products with industry-leading concentrations, as well as professional courses in pool management, available in both English and Spanish. They provide comprehensive services such as aquatic facility audits, pool inspections, impartial supervision, photometric water analysis, and expert consulting. Serving pool service technicians in California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Florida, and Mexico, reflects their commitment to sustainable practices in water management across regions with significant climate concerns and high-water usage. Hidroklear continues to set the benchmark for excellence in the swimming pool industry, promoting a healthier planet and superior aquatic experiences.
in the field, Roberto, an accomplished author, wrote a manual for aquatic facility operations. His expertise includes organizing international events focused on promoting healthy, safe, and sustainable practices in aquatic facility operations.
Roberto’s involvement with organizations such as the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where he is a member of the Committee for the Model Aquatic Health Code, underscores his commitment to industry standards and best practices. Additionally, his affiliations with organizations like the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance and the National Plasterers Council demonstrate his dedication to promoting excellence in the industry.
Roberto’s experience as a top instructor for certifying pool operators and his involvement in drafting health department regulations for Mexico City and Mexico State further highlight his expertise and leadership in the field. His participation in national and international review groups, including those in Spain and Colombia, underscores his global perspective and engagement in advancing industry standards worldwide.
Hidroklear LLC, founded in November 2018, is a collaboration between Claudia Herminia Rodriguez and Roberto Antonio Flores.
Claudia Rodriguez brings extensive experience as a biologist, having led the Mexico States Commission for Disease Control and Prevention Swimming Pool program for 15 years. Her expertise in disease control and prevention, particularly in the context of aquatic facilities, provides a strong foundation for Hidroklear’s operations.
Roberto Flores brings a wealth of knowledge in aquatic facility auditing and operations. With 34 years of experience
Together, Claudia Rodriguez and Roberto Flores form a dynamic partnership, blending scientific rigor with practical industry knowledge to drive the success of Hidroklear LLC. Their combined expertise positions the company as a leader in promoting health, safety, and sustainability in aquatic facilities, both nationally and internationally.
Of his hobbies and family, Roberto says, “For the past 34 years we have offered operator training at an international level, teaming up with governments, top renowned universities, scholars and organizations to promote healthy, safe and sustainable swimming environments. My wife Claudia and I are passionate about our profession, caring for water and the environment. We enjoy sharing our knowledge with those who are interested in learning; we are strengthened
Roberto Antonio Flores Hidroklear
and encouraged to continue promoting the constant professionalization of the industry, research and development and introduction of better products and services.”
Hidroklear is part of CIEESSA (International Certification of Water Efficiency, Ecology, Health and Safety), currently recognized by the CDC's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as the only promoter committed to health and safety in aquatic facilities in Latin America. They are a part of its Council for the CMAHC Model Aquatic Health Code, being the only representative of the Latin American sector. With CIEESSA, Hidroklear has actively collaborated with health authorities in Mexico, in the development and implementation of new local regulations for the aquatic industry, and in the certification of operating personnel of commercial and residential aquatic facilities.
OTHER CERTIFICATIONS/AFFILIATIONS INCLUDE:
• International Aquatic Facility Auditor accreditation
• Pool and Hot Tub Alliance Certified Pool Operator Instructor
• Certified Pool Operator Inspector
• Proficient in:
- Plaster Forensics
- Water Chemistry
- Plaster Staining control and removal
- Increase efficiency in Hydraulics, filtering and heating
- Sustainable operations of aquatic facilities
• Certified Pool Operator
• National Plasterers Council (NPC)
• The Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA)
Hidroklear LLC
P.O. Box 581052 North Palm Springs, CA 92258
Roberto and Claudia can be reached at 602-617-4893 or sales@hidroklear.com.
Please visit https://hidroklear.com for more information on the services that are offered by Hidroklear that can benefit your community!
Meaghan Gaffney-Howe, CMCA, AMS is a community manager and Vice President of The Gaffney Group, Inc. Meaghan can be reached at meaghan@thegaffneygroup.net.
I Need to Allocate How Much to Reserves?
By Mike Graves, RS
Do you use your reserve study for reserve allocation guidance when putting your budget together? Or do you put the budget together leaving the reserve allocation as the last thing to fill in? There is not a good reason not to get your reserve account into better shape!
Greater buyer and homeowner awareness and concern will trump the old excuses of “the owners will be mad at me,” or “I promised I wouldn’t raise assessments.”
The reserve study provides all kinds of useful and insightful information, such as percent funded (overrated in my mind), a reserve allocation recommendation (determined by a few different mathematical techniques), annual disclosure (for the budget package), and hopefully the comfort (when looking at the cash flow table) this 30-year, longterm budget will help guide the board into the fiscally fit sunset!
Let’s look a little closer…why do I say percent funded is overrated? Because it is easily manipulated, even by well-intentioned component expense revision. The next year comes along
with an opportunity to reevaluate an expense approach whether it is a large landscape project, or a paint and wood repair project, or who knows what! And that is okay, a reserve study is a dynamic not a static forecast.
"...THIS 30-YEAR, LONG-TERM BUDGET WILL HELP GUIDE THE BOARD INTO THE FISCALLY FIT SUNSET!"
What is your percent funded goal? Our goal is to target landing at 100% funded in the 30th or last year of the cash flow table with the objective of using a level funding plan. You could have a different plan but that needs to be articulated to the reserve study provider at which point it may or may not be considered and implemented. Is there a reserve allocation recommendation in my community’s reserve study, you ask? Yes, there is! On occasion there may not be a need to increase or increase much, other times insufficient allocation has taken place for so long that the recommendation exceeds the allowable 20% assessment increase. Between these two extremes lies
“reasonable.” One form of reasonable may be to allocate the annualized cost of the components, also referred to as straight line or annual depreciation. Another form of reasonable could be to use a funding plan of 3% or 4% and then “solve” for the reserve allocation. Both techniques create equitability going forward in the cash flow analysis.
Once the budget task is over and the reserve allocation within the budget is determined the budget needs to be approved. Then send it to the reserve study provider so the reserve disclosure can be completed and sent back to you. One more piece of the puzzle is completed. And hopefully it is not November!
Mike Graves, RS, EBP is the President of SCT Reserve Consultants. He has been doing reserve studies for over 25 years. Mike is a San Diego State alum with a bachelor’s degree in economics. He attained his Reserve Specialist designation from CAI in 2000 and his Educated Business Partner distinction in 2013. Mike has been providing education about reserves for quite some time, and now that COVID is over, has resumed attending and sponsoring functions at many CAI chapters. Mike can be reached at (951) 296-3520 or Mike.G@sctreserve.com.
'Tis the Season for Political Expression
By Adrian Adams, Esq.
QUESTION: One of our owners is displaying four "upside-down U.S. flags in front on her unit. All owners view the flags. This came about the day after Trump's conviction, so it is politically motivated. Your advice please!! –Josn H.
HARRIS PRESIDENT for
ANSWER: Locusts swarm every seven years and devour everything in sight. Politicians do it every four years.
TRUMP MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN 2024
Owners are allowed to display upside flags as a form of political expression. You can expect to see signs, flags, and posters sprouting up like weeds as the country heads into a hotly contested presidential election.
Associations cannot prohibit signs, flags, and posters if they are on or in an owner's separate interest. (Civ. Code § 4710.) In planned developments, residents can display signs in their yards, in windows, on doors, and on the sides of their houses.
In condominiums, they can display signs on the inside of their windows and on their balconies. They cannot put them on exterior walls since those are common areas.
FIGHTING WORDS. Associations can restrict signs, posters and flags that display obscenity or fighting words. I have no doubt that signs with "Vote for Trump" or "Vote for Harris" will be deemed both obscene and fighting words by rival groups. They are not. Residents are allowed to display them.
REGULATING SIGNS. Even though associations cannot prohibit political signs, they can regulate them. Signs can be made of paper, cardboard, cloth, plastic, or fabric, but not lights, roofing, siding, paving materials, flora, balloons, building, landscaping, or decorative components, or the painting of architectural surfaces. (Civ. Code § 4710(b).) Signs cannot exceed nine square feet in size. (Civ. Code § 4710(c).)
RECOMMENDATION: Everyone should stay calm and hold their noses until the election plays itself out. For more information, see "Political Activities, Signs, Posters & Flyers."
This article is republished with permission from the August 6, 2024 Adams|Stirling newsletter. Adrian Adams is Founder and Co-Managing Partner for Adams|Stirling PLC with offices throughout California, including Palm Desert. You can reach Adrian at aadams@adamsstirling.com or (760) 620-0747.
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Election-Year Etiquette: Tips for Keeping Board Meetings Civil
By Leena Danpour, Esq.
As we are living through an election year, we can expect heightened passion around political views, some of which may surface at our community association board meetings. The energy and enthusiasm that come with election season can sometimes lead to heated debates and discussions.
While board meetings are an excellent opportunity to address important community issues, they are not intended as platforms for political debate regarding local, state or federal issues. Nevertheless, avoiding political discussions entirely during this period might be challenging due to the current political climate. Open and respectful dialogue is valuable, but it is best conducted in appropriate settings designed for such discussions.
In addition to Robert’s Rules of Order and CAI National’s Civility Pledge, here are four (4) strategies for homeowners and board members to maintain civility at board meetings, now and always:
1. Maintain Professional and Positive Decorum: Avoid discussing political preferences during board meetings. This practice will help to ensure that meetings remain productive for everyone involved. Remember that directors are volunteers who donate their time, and this time should be used efficiently. Association members’ time in attending the meeting is equally valuable and keeping agenda topic discussions focused on community issues benefits everyone.
2. Avoid Profanity and Obscene Language: Board meetings are not the place for racial, ethnic, gender, religious, disability or age-based slurs; shouting or yelling; physical threats (including intimidating gestures or body language); interruptions; pounding on tables; throwing objects; or any other disruptive behavior. Such actions impede the board’s ability to conduct its business and should not be tolerated under any circumstances.
3. Lower the Temperature: The board should assert its authority to adjourn meetings if any individual’s behavior disrupts the proceedings. The president of the board should also reserve the right to close the homeowner forum if order is not maintained. I suggest that the board reserve this right in the association’s rules and regulations to avoid homeowner pushback that the board is restricting their right to speak during homeowner forum. This approach will help maintain a respectful and focused environment.
4. Adopt Speaker Guidelines: Implement a policy where homeowners who do not adhere to civility standards at board meetings may be asked to leave if attending in person. If they are warned and remain non-compliant, they may forfeit their remaining time in the homeowner forum and could be muted on Zoom, Webex, or other virtual platforms. Having clear guidelines helps manage behavior and ensure everyone’s voice can be heard respectfully.
By following these guidelines, board meetings can remain respectful and effective. A little civility goes a long way in ensuring everyone’s time is well spent and that discussions stay productive. If your association is interested in adopting formal speaker guidelines, the board of directors should consider reaching out to the association’s legal counsel for assistance.
Leena Danpour, Esq. is an attorney with the law firm of SwedelsonGottlieb and exclusively represents homeowners’ associations in both litigation and transactional matters, providing corporate governance advice to boards of directors who serve associations throughout California. Leena also serves as the Chair of the CLAC-LSC Committee (California Legislative Action Committee and Legislative Support Committee). You may reach Leena at (800) 372-2207 Ext. 206 or by email at ld@sghoalaw.com.
The Dreaded Budget Process – Interview Between Mike Traidman and Holly Smith, PCAM
By Holly Smith, CCAM, CMCA, AMS, PCAM and Mike Traidman
Mike Traidman
Member
of
the CAI-CV Board of Directors, is President of Mira Vista at Mission Hills HOA, and is a Commissioner for CAI’s Community Association Managers International Certification Board (CAMICB)
MIKE: When do you start the budgeting process? How do you start?
HOLLY: I believe the budgeting process starts the day after the current budget year ends. For example, if the fiscal year ends on December 31st, the CAM (Community Association Manager) should begin the process in January. Start with requesting a Reserve Study proposal and securing board approval for the proposal within the first quarter of the year. If an onsite inspection is required for the Reserve Study, it should be scheduled within the next three months, ensuring the Study is completed by June. If no onsite inspection is needed, the CAM should forward any reserve expenditures and notify the Reserve Analyst of impending projects and estimated costs by July, or August at the latest.
A draft of the Reserve Study should be requested in early August to finalize it for presentation to the board in September. CAMs should also consult with their accounting departments to confirm any deadlines that ensure back-office tasks are completed in time for statements to be sent to homeowners. CAMs can streamline the process by updating annual documents like insurance disclosures, reserve studies, and budget information in advance, making end-of-year mailings easier to assemble.
MIKE: When does the board get involved with the budget?
HOLLY: The board should be involved from the very beginning. In fact, the board has a fiduciary responsibility to review the financials and identify where the budget may need adjustment based on the needs of the association. During the drafting process, it is recommended that the board meet in July or August to review current and past financials and assess projections for the remaining months of the current year. Boards should be encouraged to establish a financial committee that includes one or two board members and potentially interested homeowners, people with financial experience, to help the board with these difficult decisions, but also to show the ownership that changes to the budgets and increases are not just recommendations from the board.
MIKE: What do you supply the board or financial committee?
HOLLY: The board or financial committee should be provided with, at a minimum, the most current financials, a copy of the year-end financials from the previous two-to-three fiscal years, a reserve study draft, any new contract increases, and proposals for upcoming projects. This information will help them annualize and determine estimated costs for the upcoming year.
MIKE: What letters or emails do you send to business partners and when?
Holly Smith, CCAM, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Executive Director of Community Management for Associa Desert Resort Management.
HOLLY: Depending on the formality required by individual management companies, managers should always communicate with their contracted business partners to inquire about any anticipated rate increases for the next fiscal year. Since many contracts renew mid-year, it is prudent to negotiate terms that allow for adjustments during the association’s fiscal year. If this is not possible, the CAM must account for any potential mid-year increases in the budget.
SAMPLE COMMUNICATION TO BUSINESS PARTNERS
To Whom It May Concern,
We are currently preparing the 2025 budget for Happy Homeowners Association. To complete this process, we need to know if you anticipate any rate increases for the 2025 calendar year.
Please check one of the following boxes to indicate any anticipated changes in the contract rate for the upcoming 2025 year:
Contract will remain the same—no rate increase for the 2025 calendar year.
A rate increase of _______ per month, which is a ________% increase over 2024. The new rate will be
No knowledge of any increase at this time. Information will be provided by (date) ________________.
Other ______________________________________________
Signature ___________________________ Date ____________
Please respond by August 31, 2024. If there is an increase for the 2025 calendar year, please submit an addendum/contract with this form. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. If this form is not returned by the date requested, we will assume there will be no change in the contract amount and will budget accordingly. Any increases submitted after the due date may be denied. Should you have any questions, please contact me or my assistant at XXX-XXX-XXXX.
MIKE: How do you deal with unpredictable utilities?
HOLLY: Utility companies often notify customers of rate increases within their billing statements or through additional communications. This is usually easier to track
with local utilities such as waste management companies or water districts like Imperial Irrigation (IID) or Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD). If the rate increase information is not provided in the mailings, checking the utility company’s website or making a simple phone call can help determine any anticipated increases. Make sure to document your findings.
MIKE: How is the budgeting process completed after the business partner information is gathered?
HOLLY: For line items that are variable, such as landscape extras, it’s advisable to average the prior year's expenses with the expenses from the current year up to that point. Ideally, you should have at least six to seven months of current-year financials. Add up all expenditures, divide by the number of months included, and multiply by 12 to estimate the budget for the upcoming year.
Some line items may need to be adjusted depending on whether the expenditures were one-time investments or ongoing maintenance. Contracted amounts should be increased based on the information gathered, and utilities should be budgeted with consideration of any percentage increase determined during the discovery phase. Also, a copy of the associations reserve study can be helpful in determining reserve contributions and upcoming potential maintenance needs for associations components.
Once a draft is completed, it should be presented for the whole board to review and discussed in an open meeting. Being transparent about the associations expenditures and needs with the homeowners and allowing them to ask questions will help in the process of increasing assessments. It would be ideal to have a draft budget to present by September, and approved no later than October to allow management ample time to prepare mailers and get them queued up to be mailed out in a timely fashion. This will also provide the accounting department with the opportunity to update records and get statement or payment books printed and mailed out as well.
Holly Smith, CCAM, CMCA, AMS, PCAM is Executive Director of Community Management for Associa Desert Resort Management. Holly can be reached at hsmith@drminternet.com or by phone at (760) 346-1161.
Mike Traidman is a member of the CAI-CV Board of Directors, is President of Mira Vista at Mission Hills HOA, and is a Commissioner for CAI’s Community Association Managers International Certification Board (CAMICB). Mike can be reached by email at mtraidman@yahoo.com.
Picking Paint Colors — Where to Begin?
By Jared Knight, MPI
There are few things that can transform the curb appeal of your home as quickly and completely as a new paint job. Nevertheless, preparing to get the exterior of your home painted can seem like a daunting task with all the preparation required. For many, the color selection process can be the most challenging part of the entire project. Painting your home represents a sizable investment, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed when starting down this path, especially when you live in a homeowners’ association and are trying to figure out where to begin this process.
The first thing to keep in mind is that most HOA’s already have some type of guidelines in place when it comes to what colors you can use on the exterior of your home. Many have specific paint color palettes already set up to choose from. Others may use more flexible guidelines that allow for a wider range of colors that still fit within the overall feel of the community. Some allow you to bring whatever selection you want to submit for approval. So, the first step is to understand the color rules and regulations set forth by your HOA so that your choices comply. A quick call or email to your management will get you started.
Once you understand the guidelines, it’s time to start picking colors. When choosing a color, the very first thing to remember is that colors will look different when they are painted on your home than they do on a paper color swatch. The reason for this is that swatches are usually printed on smooth paper and most homes have a textured surface and light will reflect differently. So, plan on putting some paint samples up on your home. Have the sample be large enough that you can truly get a sense of the color. And since surrounding colors influence how our eyes see color, try to isolate the new color in a place where you don’t see the old color.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD YOU KEEP IN MIND?
1. The architectural style of your home. Often, preapproved color palettes will take the style of your home into consideration. But some communities have various building styles within them, and different architectural styles can call for different color schemes.
2. The surrounding homes in your community. Your neighbor’s homes are going to be a constant feature, so consider how your proposed colors will tie in with the neighborhood and how your neighbors will feel about them, especially if your HOA allows you to submit colors not based on an approved color palette.
3. Where you live plays a part in color selection. Here in the Coachella Valley, we are known for two things, the sun and heat! While the quality of the paint plays a part, generally speaking the darker the color, the faster and more severe the color fade in our extreme sun exposure. Additionally, darker colors are known to absorb heat, while lighter colors can reflect sunlight more and at the very least hold a lower surface temperature.
4. Your personal preference. The color of your home will to a degree determine how you feel about your home. So last but not least consider what you like, within the guidelines for your HOA. Many will have a variety of options that allow for a variety of personal tastes.
5. Look for inspiration. Drive around your neighborhood and others and look for paint colors that catch your eye. Having an idea of what you want ahead of time can simplify the process of picking your colors.
What if you live in an HOA that maintains the exterior paint of the homes and you are serving on the board of directors, or have volunteered to be on the architectural committee or a color committee for a community-wide painting project? The needs of the entire community are important to consider. The architectural style and the fact that we live in the desert are still crucial points. It can be tempting to lean solely on your personal preference, but now you are picking colors for everyone, so proceed accordingly. Endeavor to improve and update the overall aesthetic of the community. Colors can contribute to a sense of pride in ownership and can support or even raise property values. This is a big responsibility, so ask your property manager to put you in touch with a professional that can help with complimentary services like digital color renderings.
The easiest thing to do, of course, is to keep the color the same. But consider at least a slight color change. When the curb appeal is updated and improved, it can help owners to have a sense that their assessments are going to a good place, especially if there is a special assessment involved.
Picking colors can be challenging but need not be overwhelming if we can keep these basic things in mind.
Jared Knight, Senior Account Manager for Precision Construction and Painting. Jared has been a member of the CAI-CV chapter for 12 years, has been in the paint industry for 29 years, and is MPI (Master Painters Institute) certified.
MEET THE COMMITTEE CHAIR
Michael Marshall, PCAM - Golf Committee
By Jennifer James, Esq.
This article is part of a series featuring CAI-CV Board members and committee chairs. This month, we are featuring Michael Marshall, who serves as Chair of the Chapter’s Golf Committee.
Michael Marshall has been an integral part of the HOA industry since June 2001. His career began as the Controller at Sun City Palm Desert, a role he held until moving to Northern California in 2005. There, he spent a decade at Serrano El Dorado Owners Association as the Controller and Assistant GM before becoming the on-site GM at The Parkway at Folsom with FirstService Residential. In November 2018, Michael transitioned to a leadership role as Vice President of the Sacramento Region for FirstService, and in May 2022, he became the Vice President of the Desert Region, a position he currently holds. As Vice President of the Desert Region for FirstService Residential, Michael plays a crucial role in the largest HOA management company in North America. He oversees the company's operations in the Desert Region, ensuring excellence in management and service delivery.
Michael has a rich history of involvement with the Community Associations Institute (CAI). He served on the CAI – Northern Chapter Board of Directors for six years and was President in 2014. Academically, Michael holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Redlands. Born and raised in Ft. Collins, Colorado, he moved to Redlands for college.
Family is a significant part of Michael's life. He and his wife, Diane, have been married for 23 years and have a 20-yearold daughter, Madison, who is attending
State Northridge. They also have two dogs: Daisy, a Yorkshire Terrier, and Itsy, a Miniature Poodle Mix. In his leisure time, Michael enjoys playing golf and pickleball. He has also held various volunteer positions at his church and his daughter's schools, reflecting his commitment to community service. Michael considers obtaining his PCAM designation in 2013 as his greatest professional achievement. His management style is a blend of hands-on involvement and empowering his team to reach their fullest potential. He maintains an open-door policy and takes great pride in seeing his direct reports advance to bigger roles. Among his greatest strengths are his ability to remain calm in difficult situations and his knack for building strong relationships with associates and community board members. Michael is driven by a desire to help those around him achieve their best, whether they are direct reports, colleagues, or volunteers. What makes Michael unique is his combination of strong managerial skills and a solid financial background, which have contributed to his success in his current role. However, he does have a few pet peeves: he dislikes when someone says a task is not their job and is particularly bothered by toilet seats and lids being left up.
Michael's passion for the HOA industry and his past involvement with CAI in other regions motivated him to join CAI-CV. He appreciates the organization's amazing network of talented individuals and hopes to see an increase in golfing members, reflecting his enthusiasm as the Chair of the Golf Committee. His primary goal for his tenure as the Chair is to continue growing the golf tournaments, making them bigger and more profitable for the chapter. Michael believes that every day in the industry can feel like a battle, but winning people over is the key to success. He encourages his peers not to let the challenging stories overshadow their work, as positive transformations are always possible.
Michael Marshall's dedication to the HOA industry, his community, and his role at FirstService Residential make him an exceptional leader and a valuable asset to CAI-CV. His commitment to fostering growth and excellence is evident in everything he does, and his vision for the future of the Golf Committee promises exciting developments ahead.
Michael, thank you for your service to CAI-CV and for your dedication to the CID industry!
Jennifer James, Esq. graduated from Washburn University School of Law in 2001 and has dedicated her career to representing common interest communities. She has served on the board of CAI-CV and chaired numerous committees within the organization. In 2024, Jennifer joined Roseman Law, APC, as the managing attorney for Coachella Valley. She can be reached at James@Roseman.Law or (760) 760-2000.
Cal
SAVE THE DATE
CAI-CV’s Annual Awards and Casino Night
MASQUERADE BALL
Friday, January 24, 2025, 5:30 p.m.
SUN CITY PALM DESERT
Sponsorships Available
EARLY REGISTRATIONS
Managers & Board Members $100
Non-sponsor Business Partners $200
49950 Jefferson Street, Suite 130-117
Indio, CA 92201
SEPTEMBER
CAI-CV’s Educational Lunch Program & Mini Trades Show
WHEN: Friday, September 20, 2024, 11:15 a.m. WHERE: Sun City Palm Desert
REGISTRATION: SPONSORSHIPS
OCTOBER
CAI-CV & DCHC Board Member Workshop - Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Contracts, Legal & Liabilities
WHEN: Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 8:30 AM WHERE: RAP Center & Zoom
REGISTRATION: SPONSORSHIPS:
CAI-CV Educational BREAKFAST Program & Mini Trade Show
WHEN: Friday, October 18, 2024, 8:00 AM WHERE: Sun City Palm Desert
