Relative to the Condominium Owners’ Rights Act (CORA)
Under this bill, governing bodies of self-managed condominiums with 50 or fewer units are required to provide requested records promptly, either electronically or via a secure web platform, with stipulated penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the bill mandates that all governing bodies maintain detailed minutes of meetings and ensure that these records are openly accessible to unit owners. Furthermore, it establishes that governing bodies must have preventive maintenance plans and designate a minimum of 10% of the budget towards a replacement reserve fund, promoting better financial management within condominium associations.
Bill S2498, known as the Act relative to the Condominium Owners' Rights Act (CORA), aims to enhance the rights of condominium owners and improve the governance of their associations. It introduces several amendments to Chapter 183A of the General Laws of Massachusetts, primarily focusing on transparency in governance, record accessibility, and the incorporation of electronic communication for meetings and voting. The bill defines critical terms such as 'governing body' and 'remote meeting', emphasizing the need for condominiums to adapt to modern communication methods.
A notable point of contention may arise with the establishment of the Office of the Condominium Ombudsman, which aims to receive and resolve complaints regarding condominium governance. While supporters of the bill may view this as a necessary mechanism to protect unit owners' rights, some may express concerns about the implications for existing governance structures and the potential for increased state oversight in what they consider private matters. The ability for owners to participate remotely in meetings and vote electronically could also spark debates regarding maintainence of order and security during these sessions.