By Beth Mulcahy, Esq.
As you may know, in 2013, the State of Florida adopted a new law that requires board members to follow certain “certification procedures”.
Under Florida’s law, within 90 days after being elected or appointed to the board, each director shall certify in writing to the secretary of the association that he or she has read the association’s declaration of covenants, articles of incorporation, bylaws, and current written rules and policies; that he or she will work to uphold such documents and policies to the best of his or her ability; and that he or she will faithfully discharge his or her fiduciary responsibility to the association’s members.
Further, within 90 days after being elected or appointed to the board, in lieu of such written certification, the newly elected or appointed director may submit a certificate of having satisfactorily completed the educational curriculum administered by a division-approved education provider within 1 year before or 90 days after the date of election or appointment.
I am interested in what Arizona associations think about mandatory board member education… I think there are pros and cons on both side of this issue. Please comment on this important issue so we can start the dialogue!
Usually everyone wants “what’s best for their neighborhood” & their Association Directors making common sense, informed sound or experienced decisions which ultimately impact their proverbial “bottom line”.
Owners would smartly choose the informed & experienced to get a job done – over a novice any day.
I am a Board Member – that’s why I like this idea that entire Association Management teams are certified & informed. Common sense Make it so, Beth!
Totally agree with requiring training! But, because many Association documents are out of date. The training needs to include the effect of new laws thereon.