Association Meeting Flexibility Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2023
The proposed changes would ensure that condominium and cooperative associations can continue to meet remotely without facing bureaucratic hurdles, permitting them to operate more effectively as they manage community affairs. Given that the flexibility granted during the pandemic had allowed associations to function uninterruptedly via virtual means, the bill is expected to cement the practice as a standard method of communication and decision-making within these organizations.
PR25-0268, known as the Association Meeting Flexibility Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2023, aims to amend the Condominium Act of 1976 to allow condominium unit owners' associations to conduct virtual meetings. This bill was introduced in response to the ongoing need for flexibility in meeting arrangements as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. With many residents becoming accustomed to virtual meetings during the pandemic, this bill seeks to codify that practice and eliminate the need for associations to amend their bylaws to hold virtual meetings.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be positive among community leaders and members of the council who recognize the utility of virtual meetings. This resolution reflects a broader acknowledgment of the need for adaptation in governance structures, especially as many in the community have benefited from the convenience and accessibility that virtual meetings provide. There seems to be an urgent desire to maintain these arrangements to support ongoing community engagement.
While the bill has not faced significant opposition, the discussion has prompted thought about how such changes might influence governance in the long term. Some stakeholders have expressed concerns about potential issues related to inclusivity, ensuring that all voices within the community are heard and that digital divide challenges do not disenfranchise members who might not have access to the necessary technology. These concerns underline the importance of balancing innovation in community governance while ensuring equitable participation.