To the editor:
On June 9 in Clearbrook, there was a town hall meeting to explain legislation concerning planned communities, co-ops and related condominium associations. There were more than 500 people present including a number of New Jersey communities interested to learn what is in store for residents in retirement associations.
Admittedly, the make up of the presenters was in favor of the Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act; however, invitation was made to sponsors of another bill, S-2016, the Turner bill that focuses on the same issues as the UCIOA. Invitation was extended to have a dialogue explaining the features of both, the differences and effects it would have on the management and residents of these various communities. Invitation was made, but no sponsor of the Turner bill accepted the opportunity to participate.
Representatives of the Community Associations Institute, a political arm of the various associations provided a power point explanation. After the presentation audience members were invited to express their opinions and concerns. There were representatives from Clearbrook in the audience who asked questions and raised concerns in opposition to the CAI and legislative representatives present who supported the passage of the CAI bill.
This does not suggest only one side of the issue is written in stone. Attention is called to a matter that has been contentious over prior legislation that needs to be updated and refined for community held associations, co-ops and related communities that are self-governing. The core of most concerns are the governing boards of these entities to have guide lines, training and a method of resolving disputes before they get to court.
From that perspective, thanks to those who set this forum in action and all those who participated. The meeting was a lesson in democratic reform. It’s essential all sides of the matter be examined, not with rancor, confrontation, or accusation, but with serious attention to the knotty problem of how we govern ourselves within these communities without resorting to the courts.
Martin Berkowitz
Monroe
