By Eric Glazer, Esq.

Published December 30, 2013

My what a difference a year makes.  This time last year, we had no idea how many HOAs there were in the State of Florida, unit owners weren't allowed to use their cameras and cell phones to take pictures of the official records, exorbitant fees were being charged by some management companies for copies of records, HOA board members stayed on the Board even when caught stealing association funds, HOAs weren't required to insure those handling association funds, HOA developers were basically able to freely amend the governing documents, turnover from developer control in an HOA was much harder to accomplish and HOA directors weren't required to get certified.   All that has now changed.

There's no question that as we say good-bye to 2013, we can look back and call it a very productive year for owners of homes in our community associations throughout the state.  Some times, voices are heard and hard work does pay off.

So, what does 2014 hold in store?  Hopefully, my column on this date next year will start out saying "This time last year the D.B.P.R. was not able to assist HOAs and their members and HOAs were still using a terrible voting system that allowed for proxies and required a 30% quorum at meetings."  That's my wish and I resolve to do all I can to get that accomplished.

The first quarter of 2014 will be busy up in Tallahassee .  At the risk of having some egg on my face, I will say however that I am optimistic about getting our HOA reform bill passed.  Better late than never.

No matter what lies ahead, we'll keep fighting the fight.  And…..I wish all of you and your families a very happy and healthy new year.