I value my free time. That’s exactly why this decision matters.
For nearly 30 years of adult life, I’ve lived in co-ops, condos and communities with homeowners associations. I’ve never wanted a seat on a board. I lead a full life, and board service simply was not on my list.
What changed?
The elevator modernization had one unexpected benefit: with one operating elevator, I spent a lot more time talking with neighbors. Long rides, lobby waits and everyday conversations turned into something surprisingly useful.
I started hearing the same themes again and again: questions about value for maintenance, management communication, contractor recommendations, service standards, everyday policies and whether residents felt there was an effective way to be heard.
“I realized that many of the concerns I thought were mine alone were shared by a lot of us.”
I can keep being frustrated, or I can invest some of my own time in helping make things better. That is why I am running.