This article discusses whether a president can refuse to update a committee member and how to address communication issues within the committee.
Question: Can the president refuse to give an interested committee member an update on motions?
I am a committee member. Our committee meets once every 3 months. It has been two months since our last meeting. I sent an email to the president asking for an update on items that were outstanding at the last meeting and how they were progressing. I was told to wait until the meeting (which is 6 weeks away) to receive an update.
Can the president refuse to give an interested committee member an update? What can I do about the failure to update me when I have requested an update?
Answer: The Executive Committee members should be sharing the work load and usually, email discussions would keep all members up to date.
The Executive Committee at their first meeting should have elected a Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer. Once the roles are determined then a bit easier for actions arising to be checked.
We would not expect that the Chair would be responsible for undertaking all actions. The Executive Committee members should be sharing the work load and usually, email discussions would keep all members up to date. Do other members have some further information or input?
At the next Executive Committee meeting it may be prudent to request a motion that the Executive Committee develop protocols in the management of works and maintenance and minutes have action items plus who is responsible.
Normally protocols would identify processes in place and open communications within the committee. The ACT legislation also allows for a communication officer.
Is the Executive Committee on a group email chat. Maybe ask other Executive Committee members if they are aware of an update of actions. Not sure if the manager has a portal that may also contain information etc. on quotes received.
Maybe ask for a one on one with the chair to talk it out.
We also note the requirement of the legislation as passed last November to distribute minutes within 14 days to all owners.
This post appears in Strata News #459.
Jan Browne Bridge Strata E: jan@bridgestrata.com.au P: 02 6109 7700