When it comes to HOA board member age, many wonder if there is a legal requirement. Many associations are apprehensive about letting young residents lead, but having young members on the board can offer numerous benefits.
Is There an HOA Board Member Age Requirement?
Every homeowners association has a set of leaders at the helm. Collectively, these leaders are known as the HOA board. Board members are volunteer homeowners who win their positions through an election.
Many communities have eligibility requirements for board candidates. One question that often arises is whether there is a minimum age requirement for board members. The answer primarily depends on two things: state laws and the governing documents.
Let’s take a closer look at the HOA board member age requirements below.
State Laws
Some states have established laws that dictate how old board members can be. More often than not, this requirement can be found in the state’s nonprofit corporation law. Associations are typically structured as nonprofits in their state.
For instance, in Florida, Section 617.0802 of the Florida Not‑For‑Profit Corporation Act states that directors must be 18 years of age or older. Similarly, in Utah, board directors must be 18 years or older under Section 802 of the Utah Revised Nonprofit Corporation Act.
Governing Documents
When state laws are silent, associations must defer to their governing documents. The HOA’s bylaws, in particular, contain board director qualifications. Some bylaws explicitly state the minimum age requirement for board members, while others do not.
Ability to Fulfill Duties
When both state laws and the governing documents are silent, one can argue that a person of any age can run for a position on the board. But it is equally important to consider the person’s ability to fulfill their duties.
A 10-year-old, for instance, would not be able to successfully perform a board member’s responsibilities with due diligence and care. Although state laws and the bylaws may not explicitly define an age requirement, other requirements, such as having the ability to make decisions for the HOA and enter into contracts, might implicitly do so.
The Benefits of Welcoming Younger HOA Board Members
As younger generations age and gain buying power, an increasing number of communities are seeing millennial (or even Gen Z) homeowners. Naturally, this also results in more young residents becoming interested in HOA leadership.
Some communities may be hesitant to embrace younger board members, but doing so comes with several benefits. These include the following:
1. Fresh Perspectives
Differences in HOA board member age can bring valuable perspectives to governance. Younger members often look at issues differently, as they have contrasting views compared to older members.
Young leaders can introduce innovative ideas and modern approaches. They may question long-standing practices that no longer serve the community well. This can help boards avoid becoming stagnant or overly set in their ways.
2. Technology Skills
Younger board members usually bring stronger digital skills. They can help set up online payment systems, manage social media, or improve communication with homeowners through apps, portals, or newsletters. This can streamline processes and reduce costs.
3. Long-Term Investment in the Community
Younger homeowners may plan to stay in the neighborhood for many years. A millennial HOA board member might be more motivated to improve their community because they have a larger and longer stake. This drive can also positively impact property values for everyone.
4. Stronger Connection to Younger Residents
Younger board members can better understand the needs of young families, new homeowners, or working professionals. This allows them to adjust and plan accordingly, resulting in a stronger bond to these segments of the demographics.
5. Energy and Availability
While not always true, younger members may have more energy to take on projects or learn the complexities of HOA operations. They can bring drive and motivation to committees or special initiatives.
6. Balance and Diversity
A healthy board includes a range of ages, backgrounds, and skill sets. Adding younger voices to a board already made up of long-term residents can create a stronger decision-making body that reflects the needs and wants of the broader community.
HOA Board Member Age: Challenges for Young Leaders
Bringing younger leaders into HOA boards can benefit a community, but it also comes with hurdles. Understanding these challenges will help communities better support new voices while still maintaining good leadership.
1. Limited Experience
Younger members may not have as much history or expertise with community governance or property ownership. This can make it harder for them to navigate complex bylaws, budgets, or legal obligations. They might lean heavily on other directors at first.
2. Shorter Tenure in the Community
Some younger homeowners, particularly Gen Z HOA board members, might see their property as a starter home. This poses a problem for board continuity, especially if they move away after just a few years. With frequent turnovers, the board might struggle with instability.
3. Work and Family Commitments
Younger directors are often in the busy stages of life. They have careers to nurture, kids to raise, and even schools to attend. This can all make it tougher for them to devote enough time to their board duties. They might even struggle to participate in meetings or planning sessions.
4. Possible Perception Gaps
Older residents may feel that their younger counterparts don’t understand the community as well as they do. This perception can create tension, even if the younger director is fully committed and capable.
5. Risk of Overreliance on Technology
While technology is a strength, relying too heavily on digital solutions can alienate homeowners who prefer traditional communication methods. It is essential to strike the right balance to make sure everyone feels heard and involved.
6. Decision-Making Confidence
Younger board members may hesitate to assert themselves among more seasoned directors, especially if the latter don’t make the former feel welcome. Young leaders may be less inclined to share their ideas or challenge decisions. This can lead to an imbalance in influence, with older directors calling the shots.
A Balancing Act
When considering HOA board member age, boards should balance legal requirements with the needs of the community. It is also best to have a good mix of old and young directors. This diversity can lead to better decision-making and ensure that all voices are represented. Plus, it’s never a bad idea to offer training programs and educational opportunities to both old and young leaders.
Cedar Management Group provides effective management services to HOAs and condo associations. Call us today at (877) 252-3327 or email us at help@mycmg.com to get started!
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