Navigating Coop NYC Board Dynamics
Understanding Separate Meetings and Seeking Common Ground
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where fellow board members are meeting without you? It can be disheartening and raise many questions. In a recent column on Brick Underground, a reader asked, “My fellow board members are meeting without me. What should I do about it”? The article provided valuable insights in response, with legal experts weighing in on the matter. While the summary conclusions were instructive, we wanted to delve deeper into this issue, as it's a scenario we often encounter.
Separate meetings excluding one coop NYC board member can be either beneficial or detrimental, depending on the circumstances. If you're the one feeling excluded and ignored, it's undoubtedly hurtful. However, understanding the motives behind such actions is the first step toward addressing this issue effectively.
Resistance to Change vs. Pragmatism
One common scenario involves established, long-term board members excluding newcomers. This exclusion may stem from a resistance to change. Established boards may have developed a sense of comfort with their existing methods. They might genuinely believe that their decision-making processes are effective and that the community benefits from their approach. In their view, a new board member with numerous questions might be perceived as a nuisance.
However, it's essential to remember that new members bring fresh ideas to the table. They can offer innovative solutions to problems that may have persisted due to the status quo. While facing resistance from long-term incumbents can be challenging, their perspective can be a catalyst for positive change within the co-op or condo community.
Conversely, there are instances where board members meet separately to reach agreements and make decisions, actively excluding a disruptive member. This exclusion can be a pragmatic choice aimed at maintaining efficiency and productivity during meetings. In cases where one board member consistently engages in self-dealing or exhibits irrational behavior, excluding them can protect the best interests of the community.
Evaluating the Specific Circumstances
To address the issue of separate board meetings, it's crucial to evaluate the specific circumstances within your co-op or condo board. Understanding the motives behind these meetings can provide clarity and help you navigate the situation effectively.
As co-op and condo board consultants, our recommendation is to foster open communication. Engage in candid discussions with fellow board members to understand their perspective and concerns. Seek common ground and areas of agreement. Encourage a collaborative approach to decision-making, where everyone's voice is heard and valued.
Additionally, consider the option of inviting like-minded individuals to join the board. Bringing in new members who share your vision for the community can help bridge the gap between long-term incumbents and newcomers. Together, you can work towards creating a harmonious and prosperous co-op or condo community.
Separate meetings excluding one board member can be a complex issue with varying motives. It's essential to approach this situation with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to finding solutions that benefit the community as a whole. Remember, change can be both challenging and rewarding, and a healthy dialogue within the board is key to achieving a thriving co-op or condo environment.
Lastly, we echo Brick Underground's assessment that recruiting like-minded co-op or condo owners to join the board is a fantastic alternative. If you're interested in strategies for taking over the board and ensuring the well-being of your investment, consider reading Tina Larsson's book, "Living the High Life, How Smart Co-op and Condo Owners Protect Themselves and Their Investment," available on Amazon.
As always, please note that our insights are based on our experience as coop NYC or condo board consultants and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have legal concerns or specific issues, it's advisable to consult with legal professionals well-versed in co-op and condo regulations.