Your homeowners association may need to increase your HOA fees by 10 to 15% due to inflation. Frustrated residents may decide not to attend board meetings as a result. Low attendance can make it more difficult for members to vote on important matters.
Not sure how to increase attendance at future association meetings? Read on for the tips you need to boost attendance rates.
Provide Notice
Provide residents with ample notice before your future HOA meetings. Otherwise, residents will plan other events during that time. They'll likely prioritize other commitments over association meetings.
Use state-of-the-art technology to simplify communicating with your homeowners association's residents. For example, you can use an online portal or the community's social media pages. An online portal can automate messages, saving you time and energy.
Other outlets include:
- Community newsletters
- Signs on community billboards
Provide more than one reminder online and offline. Using both methods will increase the message's visibility. Younger generations tend to prefer electronic communications.
Include a reason for the meeting with each notice. Otherwise, residents won't have a reason to save the date and prioritize the meeting.
Specify the time and place for your association meetings. Try to plan events at the same place each time to avoid confusion. Make sure the space can accommodate a high number of members.
If the space is crowded or doesn't offer ample seating, residents may leave. Don't forget to provide dedicated seating for older residents.
Plan Efficient Meetings
A long-winded meeting can exhaust residents. They may decide to avoid future board meetings if they lack structure. Before your next meeting, plan the agenda.
Determine what topics you need to prioritize based on deadlines or upcoming events. Outline these topics based on time restraints or importance.
During the meeting, stick to the agenda. Don't spend more time than necessary on a single topic.
Residents are more likely to attend association meetings if you're covering topics they care about. Without an agenda, the meeting could drag on. Document the meeting minutes for residents who can't attend.
Add a Fun Element
HOA meetings don't have to feel exhausting or boring. Try to make your next meeting fun. In the meeting notice, consider mentioning:
- A raffle
- Snacks
- Games
Don't provide food and drinks at the start of the event. Instead, complete the meeting first to keep members in their seats until the end.
Request Association Management
You don't have to apply these tips alone. Instead, consider hiring an association management company. They can plan upcoming HOA meetings and ensure they remain focused and on schedule.
Discuss HOA Fees at Future Board Meetings
Your residents will gain a better understanding of why HOA fees are increasing if they attend your board meetings. Use these tips to boost attendance. Otherwise, you may receive frustrated messages from community members.
Remember, you don't have to apply these tips alone. Instead, talk to an association manager. Their proven strategies will help you boost attendance at future HOA meetings.
PMI East Bay uses state-of-the-art technology and award-winning services to help communities thrive. Rely on our 20 years of industry experience. Contact us to request our management services.
