Community Communication Corner
by Bob Gourley, MyEZCondo Founder, Member of CAI CT Board of Directors

"Presenting Your Maintenance Story"
Springtime in Connecticut means it's time to spruce up our communities and get ready for the warm weather that is heading our way. For many communities, the arrival of Spring means it's time for the "4 Ps" - Painting, Power washing, Paving, and Planting. With all of this activity in your community, it is equally important to consider how you will communicate what is going on within your community to its members. You can add Presentation to your list of "Ps" that need minding this Spring.

Presentation of the benefits of maintenance projects to community members is vitally important to getting their support for all of the maintenance items that your community is tackling. Like all successful projects, there is a cycle that can be tied in to your communication efforts, either through community notices, newsletters, or websites. Your presentation skills will be needed before, during, and after these projects.

Before a maintenance project begins, you should make the case for taking on the project to begin with. While most maintenance projects are self-explanatory, others require some more information for community members to fully understand their importance. For instance, pruning of tree branches is expected. Removal of trees due to insurance restrictions can shock and upset residents. To avoid this situation, you need to tell the story of why the trees are being removed before they are taken down. Residents may still be disappointed that the trees have to go but they will appreciate the explanation.

While the maintenance project is ongoing, it is a good idea to keep effected homeowners updated with details of what work is being done, when it will be done, and what is expected of them while the work is being done. There are many things that can cause a delay in a maintenance project so keep your community members informed via website postings, notices, or even phone calls if necessary.

When a maintenance project is completed, consider celebrating the completion. When the new flowers and trees have been planted, why not have a planned walk through the grounds for interested residents? When the pool is open for the season, why not have a pool opening party? Events like this enhance the experience of community living and keep a healthy, positive attitude amongst neighbors.

What new projects will your community take on this year? Have you made a thorough presentation to fellow community members about what decisions were made about maintenance of common assets that will effect them? If you have, you are well ahead of the game. If you haven't, it's not too late to present your maintenance story. You will be rewarded with a well-maintained community of people as well as a well-maintained property.

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