How to Organize ? What is a Neighborhood Group ?
There are many ways to organize a neighborhood group . The important thing is to know the difference between some of the terms that are commonly used .
Definitions :
Neighborhood or Neighborhood Group : A voluntary organization open to anyone in the neighborhood . They can be organized by topics and interests and can have committees but they do not have any legal authority to levy liens or fines . They often advocate for or organize activities within a neighborhood .
Community Association : A nongovernmental group of participating members and / or organizations within a certain area . Community associations can include smaller HOAs and Neighborhood Associations or Neighborhood Groups . They can also include other groups such as neighborhoods , villages , condominiums , cooperatives , etc .
HOA , COA and POA : Associations that deal with owners of property . The exact terms of membership and services vary .
Homeowner ’ s Association ( HOA ): They have documents filed with official authorities that create rules and regulations that homeowners and residents must follow . They are managed by state and local legislation and are mandatory when you purchase a property within their jurisdiction . They often charge fees and can assess fines and liens . Membership is required and the HOA governs and manages regulations and the “ common areas .”
Condominium Association ( COA ): Comprised of condominium owners . Members own their individual units and have joint ownership of the building and grounds . Fees cover common areas and joint ownership areas .
Property Owner ’ s Association ( POA ): A governing body that encompasses HOAs and COAs and other groups in the area like businesses . It serves as a type of umbrella or regional organization and collects fees . It stands alone and is not regulated by its member organizations and works to provide support and maintenance for areas in the region outside of the individual organizations ’ jurisdiction but common to them all .
City of Port St . Lucie | Neighborhood Resources Guide 7