Accessory dwelling units in HOAs can be a contentious topic, especially between homeowners and board members. Before turning to an HOA’s governing documents for guidance, it is important to check state laws.   What Are Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)? An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit constructed on a single-family residential lot. A single-family dwelling in HOA communities typically has one unit — the main house. However, many homeowners wish to build a second housing unit within the same property where ADUs come in. An ADU is typically smaller than the main d ..read more

The election of officers per Robert’s Rules of Order holds substantial importance in the functioning of various organizations, including homeowners associations. Virtually all associations need leaders to act as decision-makers. It is crucial to adhere to proper procedures during the nomination and election of officers to prevent any irregularities.   Robert’s Rules of Order: Motions for the Nomination of Officers When it comes to the nomination of officers, there are two possible motions: to close the nominations and reopen the nominations.   1. Close the Nominations Objective: Eff ..read more

Within Robert’s Rules of Order, motions play a significant role. They contribute to the smooth functioning of meetings by allowing members to propose topics or actions. However, grasping the fundamentals of crafting and amending motions can be challenging, especially for those new to the game.   Robert’s Rules of Order: Motions Defined Motions are instruments that promote the efficient and seamless execution of organizational business. They offer a means to introduce, address, and promptly resolve matters, guaranteeing effective procedural management and addressing urgent issues. Accordin ..read more

As per Robert’s Rules of Order, voting on a motion demands strict compliance with specific procedures and requirements. This ensures the standardization of meetings, allowing all members to participate in a productive and smooth experience.   What Does Robert’s Rules of Order on Voting on a Motion Say? Organizations must preserve democracy by ensuring all members have a right to vote. When taking a vote on a motion, there are three key questions to consider: Has the vote been conducted fairly and impartially? Did each eligible voter get a chance to cast their vote? Did the announced outc ..read more

Robert’s Rules of Order on debates provides valuable insights into how organizations can successfully foster constructive discussions. Organizations, including HOAs, can employ debates as a positive avenue for exploring ideas in their meetings. Ensuring a respectful and orderly debate is essential to reduce interruptions.   Key Guidelines for Robert’s Rules of Order on Debates Here are the most important guidelines when following Robert’s Rules of Order on debates.   1. Recognition Protocol Before commencing a speech, the presiding officer must formally acknowledge the member. It is ..read more

In Robert’s Rules of Order, incidental motions are a crucial part of protecting the meeting structure and ensuring it flows smoothly. Members of organizations, including HOAs, would benefit from learning these motions and how they work.   Robert’s Rules of Order: Types of Incidental Motions Incidental motions in Robert’s Rules are parliamentary motions that occur incidentally while considering other business. These motions tackle questions and processes that are relevant to the main motion being discussed. Unlike privileged motions, incidental motions are not superior to the main motion i ..read more

Under Robert’s Rules of Order, privileged motions play a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and effective parliamentary proceedings. These privileged motions allow an assembly to tackle issues and prioritize business accordingly.   6 Important Robert’s Rules of Order Privileged Motions According to Robert’s Rules of Order, a privileged motion is a parliamentary motion that relates to urgent issues. Therefore, privileged motions take precedence over other motions. As the name suggests, privileged motions have to do with the rights and privileges of the members and the assembly at large. Th ..read more

Subsidiary motions in Robert’s Rules of Order play a crucial role in maintaining the smooth flow of meetings. Organizations, including homeowners associations, stand to gain valuable insights by comprehending these motions and their various forms.   Types of Robert’s Rules of Order Subsidiary Motions In accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order, a subsidiary motion constitutes a group of motions designed to handle or address the main motion. These motions contribute to shaping or influencing the discussion and decision-making process pertaining to the main motion. Subsidiary motions include ..read more

Committees based on Robert’s Rules of Order play a crucial role in facilitating effective and seamless operations for both leaders and members within an organization. Despite their vital support function, many people don’t fully grasp their workings and how they factor into an organization.   Defining Robert’s Rules of Order on Committees Although most organizations are led by a Board of Directors, committees hold an equally significant position. They contribute to streamlining the organization’s operations, aiding the board in diverse responsibilities. However, it’s essential to note tha ..read more

Members of various organizations, including HOAs, should understand the responsibilities of officers in Robert’s Rules of Order. These duties and obligations specify the roles and duties that leaders must fulfill in adherence to the correct procedures.   Robert’s Rules of Order Officers: Duties and Responsibilities In organizations, officers are usually selected from among their members. When members take on officer roles, they maintain their rights, such as making motions, participating in debates, and voting. However, a president must uphold impartiality, leading to regulations dictatin ..read more