The growing tension between tennis and pickleball players at Valencia Shores, a 55-plus community west of Boynton Beach, led to the rejection of a plan to convert another tennis court into pickleball and bocce facilities. The referendum, which required a two-thirds majority, failed to secure enough votes, leaving the community divided over the issue. Read […]
Why a pickleball vs. tennis war has torn apart one 55+ community west of Boynton Beach (FL)
The pickleball-tennis wars have reached a feverish pitch at Valencia Shores, a 55-plus development west of Boynton Beach whose board was looking to take away another tennis court to accommodate the growing demand for pickleball. Read the article…………………………….
Condo owners mount personal cameras pointed at community pool. Is that even legal? (FL)
Question: We are a small condominium with a camera at our pool. All owners used to have access to the pool camera through the association website. That camera broke, so they put in a new one — but only the board has access to it (which is fine with me). Now a resident has put […]
Empty, weedy Homestead golf course in Lynden is striking reminder of 5-year legal fight (WA)
The sand traps at the Homestead Farms Golf Course are barely recognizable as such — visible from the patios of many residents in the adjacent Lynden subdivision, the bunkers are rocky and filled in with weeds, untouched by golfers and grazed over by a large flock of migratory wigeons. On the course, which has been […]
Developers sue Ormond Beach over failed Tomoka Reserve project (FL)
In the 91-page lawsuit, the developers known as Triumph Oaks detailed the one-year fight to develop the former golf course in Ormond Beach. The developers seeking to turn the former Tomoka Oaks golf course into a 300-house gated community are suing Ormond Beach after the city rejected its plans earlier this year. Read the article…………………………….
Legal Considerations for Shared Amenities in Condominiums (TX)
Condominium living offers a unique blend of private ownership and shared resources. Those shared resources — the pool, gym, clubhouse — are often a big draw for potential buyers. But shared spaces come with shared responsibilities and, inevitably, the potential for disputes. Read the article…………………………….
Insurer Says Pollution Exclusion Sinks Coverage for Pool Chemical Injuries (VA)
A commercial general liability policy with a pollution exclusion does not protect a Virginia homeowners association from lawsuits filed by swimmers alleging they were injured by chemicals discharged into the community pool. Read the article…………………………….
HOA Pools: The basics of swimming pool insurance
Swimming pools are one of the most common and desirable amenities in managed communities. Your pool is an important feature for your residents that enhances their lifestyles daily, but do you have proper swimming pool coverage? As a board member, ensuring your property has adequate swimming pool coverage is your fiduciary responsibility to your association. […]
Oswit Land Trust files cross-complaint, claiming HOA interfered with preserve project, grant funding (CA)
In the ongoing battle over a former golf course destined to become a nature preserve, Oswit Land Trust (OLT) has filed a cross-complaint against the Mesquite Country Club Condominium Homeowners Association, alleging breach of contract and interference with a multimillion-dollar grant. Read the article…………………………….
Club West Golf Course could be fenced off (AZ)
Since December 2021, the Club West Conservancy, which represents some of the homeowners, and The Edge have been locked in a bitter battle in Maricopa County Superior Court. Initially naming Shea Homes Limited Partnership and The Edge in its suit, the Conservancy claims that the golf course declaration governing the use of the site bar […]
Old Walden Lake Golf Course Still Falling Apart (FL)
The Walden Lake development began with two privately-owned, thriving golf courses in the midst of 2200 houses. However, the golf courses’ 320 acres became run down, lost business, and eventually, the owner filed for bankruptcy. The course has been closed for 12 years. As the clubhouse, pool, tennis courts, and other structures continued to degrade, […]
11 Amenities Every HOA Should Offer
HOA amenities are the shared facilities, services, and features within a planned community or neighborhood as managed by a homeowners association (HOA). They are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and provide recreational, social, and practical benefits. These amenities are typically funded through HOA fees paid by homeowners. Read the article…………………………….
Condo Amenities: 2024 Power Rankings
Condo living in 2024 is about more than just space; it’s about the carefully curated amenities that turn buildings into communities. Gone are the days of a gym, party room, and concierge being most-appreciated amenities – today, they’re considered must-haves. And they’re now joined by things we once may have never imagined in our condo-dwelling […]
River’s Edge Golf Course sold to homeowners association (OR)
The River’s Edge Community Master Association announced its purchase of Bend’s River’s Edge Golf Course. The members of the association closed the sale and received the recorded title to the property on Friday morning. Read the article…………………………….
Owners at a Florida golf community with three courses may lose their $30,000 initial buy-in equity
Owners at Hunters Run may soon have to give up the equity or refund they were promised when they initially bought at the golf course community. At stake is $49 million worth of equity that older owners were supposed to get back when they eventually sold. Some of the refunds are as much as $32,000. […]
Cypress Creek homeowners feud with developer over amenities (VA)
The Cypress Creek Homeowners Association claims the subdivision’s developer hasn’t delivered on amenities or met deadlines promised as conditions of approval to build Cypress Creek’s sixth and final phase. The developer, however, claims the HOA is part of the reason for the delay. Read the article…………………………….
Residents push back on HOA demand they join the golf club – it’s expensive, hinders sales (FL)
Question: Our association mandates that every homeowner join the golf club. How can the residents do anything to change this ruling when so many do not want to belong to the club? It is expensive and makes it difficult to sell our condominiums. Read the Q&A………………………………..
Pinellas property appraiser: Golf course owners getting improper tax exemption after quiet sale (FL)
Residents across Florida are pushing back against more development, including people in the Tarpon Woods golf community in Pinellas County. They’re worried the course could be converted from greenspace into more homes. News Channel 8 learned that the charity that owned the golf course sold it to an LLC two years ago. Read the article…………………………….
Maintaining Your Community Pool (AZ)
Your community pools are likely very busy right now as residents attempt to beat the heat! Pools can be an attractive, albeit expensive, amenity for potential owners, especially in warmer climates like we have here in Arizona. It is important for communities to manage and maintain their pools in good condition so that owners can […]
Homeowners work to prevent Shalimar Golf Course from being redeveloped (AZ)
The Shalimar Golf Course, off Southern Avenue and McClintock Drive in Tempe, has been around since 1961 and holds a special place in the hearts of neighbors. “Everybody has a story to tell, or a moment they shared,” said Anne L’Ecuyer. “People got married here. People celebrated anniversaries here, so that matters to the community.” […]
Trump Pitches $3 Billion in Condos at Miami-Area Golf Course (FL)
Donald Trump wants to sell more high-end condos in the US, this time using a famously difficult Florida golf course as a draw. The former president’s family business is seeking to build residences and retail inside the Trump National Doral Miami resort, according to documents posted on a City of Doral website. The property covers […]
Neighbors voice health concerns over excessive dust on golf course during storms (AZ)
Residents of the Links neighborhood in Oro Valley are voicing concerns over dust problems at the Conquistador Golf Course, which runs through their community. The dust is not only an eyesore but also poses potential health hazards. Read the article…………………………….
What Your Community Association Needs to Know About Pickleball (MI)
Pickleball. It’s the fastest growing sport in America for the past three years in a row, even if it has a silly name (rumor is that it was named after one of the inventor’s dog, Pickles). But there is no denying that pickleball has a large number of enthusiasts that range from young kids to […]
With reopened golf course on hold, Columbia County neighborhood proposes new private pool (GA)
A Columbia County golf community, with its 18-hole golf course closed, is pivoting toward transforming its pool area into its No. 1 amenity. The Jones Creek Homeowners Association in Evans is asking Columbia County to grant new buffer and setback standards when it demolishes and rebuilds a pool house that residents say has become too […]
River’s Edge Golf Course sold to homeowners association (OR)
The River’s Edge Community Master Association announced its purchase of Bend’s River’s Edge Golf Course. The members of the association closed the sale and received the recorded title to the property on Friday morning. “This is a wonderful day for the community,” said Jeff Kramer, president of the association. “We saved the golf course, and […]
Condominium Community Pools: What To Check Before Opening
As warmer weather sets in, condominium communities across Ontario are preparing their outdoor amenities for use, sprucing up, repairing, and renewing some of the community’s most-loved features. Providing cool relief and a fun and healthy escape from the heat, a community pool might be one of the condominiums top amenities. Read the article…………………………….
Red Barn Golf Course reportedly suggests homeowners pay for its $187,000 driving range net (IL)
A yellow golf ball rests in grass a few meters from a Summit Condos home in Rockton. Ahead of it, an orange construction fence separates the backyard from the Red Barn Golf Course driving range. “It possibly could give someone a heart attack at an age like that,” says Paul Grossen – president of the […]
Kids, Pools and Problematic Rules – a Fair Housing Reminder (MN)
As the weather gets warmer, pools open, children get out of school for the summer and people spend more time outdoors and engaging in recreational activities. Associations want to make sure that everyone is safe and has access to common area amenities, but too often we see rules adopted by boards that violate fair housing […]
Tip to Manage Large-Scale Amenities
We sat down with Aimee Winegar, CMCA, LSM, PCAM, general manager, Worman’s Mill Community Conservancy & Urbana Commercial Conservancy, in Frederick, Md., to discuss the challenges large-scale managers face, from navigating large swimming pools with water slides to fitness centers. Winegar, who has more than 30 years of experience managing large-scale communities, shares her tips […]
The Essentials of Summer: Barbecues and Swimming Pools (CA)
Summer is here, which means homeowners throughout California are going outside to embrace the sun and outdoor activities within the community. Residents and their guests will flock to facility pools and will make plans to cook mouth-watering food at weekend barbecues. During these warm summer months, an association may be faced with an increase in […]
Man hit in face with golf ball months after condo residents raised fears; Pembroke Pines promises more netting around course (FL)
Residents living next to a golf course in Pembroke Pines have been dealing with golf balls flying into their community. 7 Investigates brought you their story months ago. At the time, they said they were afraid someone was going to get hurt — and now someone has. 7’s Heather Walker has the update. Read the […]
Poolside Etiquette: How to Enjoy Your Community Pool Responsibly
As summer heats up, so does the activity at community pools. A community pool offers residents a great way to cool off, relax, and socialize with their neighbors. Still, it’s important to remember that a neighborhood pool is not the same as a private pool. While a backyard pool is only subject to a homeowner’s […]
HOAs and golf courses
Imagine living 10 minutes away from your favorite golf course. Not only could you sleep in a little bit later if you have an early tee time, but you could probably play multiple rounds in a single day. Plus, there won’t be any debate about who will be hosting weekend get-togethers. Your friends will happily […]
Getting rid of amenities: Is it worth the trouble?
2024 has not delivered much financial relief. Money continues to be tight and everyone is feeling the pinch. Naturally, organizations are looking for new and creative ways to save or generate money, and governed communities are no different. Condo and HOA members may be considering wealth-building initiatives including charging for visitor parking, upgrading to more […]
Fate of East Naples golf course still unknown, as residents continue fight to preserve it (FL)
The fate of the former Riviera Golf Course in East Naples remains uncertain. It’s still mired in legal challenges – and the owners recently rejected a neighboring resident’s offer to buy it. Steve Campbell, who lives in the surrounding community of Riviera Golf Estates, offered to pay $857,000 for the more than 90-acre property, based […]
Dive Into Safety: Pool Signage Requirements in Community Associations (CA)
It’s time to dive into pool signage! California considers community association pools to be “public pools” for the purpose of the California Building Code’s (“CBC”) pool signage requirements. As your community prepares for pool season, take a moment ensure your pool signs are up to date with current law. Unless specified otherwise, the following signs […]
Pools
When I first started practicing community association law, I was warned about the 3 P’s – pools, pets, and parking. While I have certainly dealt with issues involving the 3 P’s, they have not consumed nearly as much time as other issues. I attribute that, in part, to our firm’s proactive approach to educating our […]
Pickleball courts in a legal pickle over the associated noise
Pickleball Legal Consultant is a job title that likely did not exist a decade ago, but as pickleball courts infiltrate neighborhoods to satiate an appetite for a sport whose namesake is a snack, communities take issue with the resulting influx of noise. Now homeowners’ associations and city councils face litigation by those whose lives are […]
Pool Rules and Safety Practices
We recommend that pool rules be adopted and mailed or emailed to all Owners and residents. If the Board of Directors isn’t clear on the legalities of certain rules such as adult swim times or unaccompanied children in the pool area, please ensure to obtain the Association attorney’s legal advice as pool rules can at […]
Delray Beach HOA Goes To Real Court Over Sport Court (FL)
The Delray Beach gated community of Casabella is suing a Palm Beach County sport court installation company which allegedly took the community’s money and ran. Sport Surfaces of 7011 Wilson Road in West Palm Beach is the defendant. Read the article…………………………….
Dive In & Thrive: Optimizing Your Community Pool
As the sunny days of summer beckon, it’s crucial to recognize that the upkeep of a community pool demands year-round attention. Not only does a pool enhance property values, but it also serves as a cherished sanctuary for families and individuals alike. From providing a space for children to frolic in the sun to offering […]
Pool Preparations for Your HOA
Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s almost time for pool season. Maintaining the perfect oasis is about more than just warm weather and water. Creating a safe, positive environment for residents to escape, unwind, and make cherished memories requires an ongoing process of routine checks, equipment upgrades, and meticulous planning. Read the […]
Virginia’s Premises Liability Law and Swimming Pool Accidents
Swimming pools are a popular attraction during the summer months, offering a refreshing way to beat the heat. However, with great enjoyment comes the responsibility of ensuring safety for all pool users. In Virginia, premises liability law holds property owners accountable for maintaining safe conditions on their premises, including swimming pools. This blog post aims […]
Should a tennis court be converted into pickleball courts? Debate intensifies in one Austin community (TX)
In the Steiner Ranch Community in northwest Austin, there are three areas with neighborhood tennis courts, and some of them have pickleball lines. Residents can make reservations to play either game, but recently a debate has landed on the courts at the Bella Mar community center over whether a tennis court should be converted into […]
Making a splash: Developing a community association pool policy
Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s almost time for pool season. Maintaining the perfect oasis is about more than just warm weather and water. Creating a safe, positive environment for residents to escape, unwind, and make cherished memories requires an ongoing process of routine checks, equipment upgrades, and meticulous planning. Read the […]
Steiner Ranch residents vie over pickleball court proposal (TX)
Two groups of Steiner Ranch residents are at odds over the proposed introduction of pickleball courts within the homeowners association community. On April 4, a group of residents created a petition that advocated for converting one tennis court at the Bella Mar Community Center into four semi-permanent pickleball courts. The petition alluded to a recent […]
Pickleball in your Community Association: 10 Considerations (IL)
Pickleball is sweeping the nation as a popular activity for all ages. It’s one of the fastest growing sports with over 8 million estimated pickleball players in the US. Before jumping on the bandwagon, consider whether your condominium, homeowner (HOA), or townhome community association has the space, budget, and interest to support a pickleball court. […]
Bixby City Council votes in favor of developer’s plans to convert golf course into homes (OK)
The Bixby City Council voted to pass an amendment that approved the developer’s plans to convert the White Hawk Golf Course into homes, according to the Homeowners Association president. Three City councilors voted for it and two opposed the motion. Read the article…………………………….
Pickleball causes racket at Cape Shores (DE)
One of Lewes’ core values is busy days and quiet nights. But, it is noise happening during the day that has led to a lawsuit against the Cape Shores community. Dr. Michael Katz and his wife Patricia are suing their homeowner’s association and President Janice Erich claiming the racket generated from pickleball on their neighborhood […]