As an OMC board member, you’ve undoubtedly encountered heated discussions at meetings. You know the topics covered at your meetings involve people’s homes, their quality of life, and their financial circumstances, issues which can be difficult to discuss, particularly as many points of view are present. Despite your best efforts to build a positive relationship with your residents, things can often go wrong.
Unfortunately, I feel confident in assuming that most if not all of us have experienced residents who can be rude and even aggressive toward board members. But at what point does it cross the line?
Your bylaws should define what unacceptable behavior at meetings is. When composing your bylaws you have an opportunity to define harassment or abuse. State what actions will not be tolerated and how they will be met with fines or legal action.
While residents do have the right to voice their concerns, there should be clear rules in place prohibiting the use of verbal abuse, for example, threats of violence, profanity, confrontational speech, and defamation along with other forms of abuse like physical aggression or offensive emails or voice calls, etc. Residents should be clear on the rules and know that if breached they can be expelled from proceedings or worse.
When the situation becomes such that a board member feels that they can’t do their job, then obviously the issue has become a serious problem and official action should be taken. Contact the offender in writing and make them aware of the situation and possible consequences. 9 times out of 10 this will see an end to the issue. If the problem persists at this take, it is likely best to take legal action.
One caveat to this is the threat of physical violence toward a board member. In this case, you should immediately contact the Gardai as no member should fear for their safety.
Has your group considered hiring a property management company? A professional management company can deal with situations like resolving conflicts and dealing with legal issues.
A property management company like KPM GROUP can also help with service charge collections, group finances, property maintenance, and other critical responsibilities a board may have.
Contact KPM Group today if you feel we may be of assistance to your OMC.
