Our co-op is in the midst of tumultuous change, but ironically, I feel that we are moving in a positive direction. If our new direction works, it could lay the groundwork for how co-ops are to function in the future. My suggestion would be that we opt for complete outside management. The co-op should have no self-policing capabilities, no unit inspection team, no access to member files and no one person should be the liaison to the outside management team. Co-op Members could instead participate in social activities like the Spring and Fall cleanups. To me this would be a more professional approach to co-op management or good governance, if you will.
At the same time it is essential that co-op Members be treated with respect by the outside management team. Member concerns must be addressed, letters or emails answered and phone calls returned. I emphasize this point, because to do otherwise is abusive. The general membership must also receive reports by the outside management team on a regular basis.
I believe that by going this route, the co-op could breathe once again.
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Hi, Was the outcome as expected with outside management? At our co-op hiring property management companies never seemed to work.
ReplyDeleteHi - Our co-op was semi taken over for a 3-yr. period in an attempt to thwart off bankruptcy. The 3 'experts' Board members were not experts at all, 2 were Office Co-ordinators and 1 worked at the local sector agency. One of the experts eventually became our very highly paid Property Manager. Many members are intimated by her because of her abusive behaviour. They do not want any interaction with her whatsoever. This works in favour of the BOD because it locks in power from the top down. As far as Property Management goes, our co-op looks like a slum. These Property Managers are continually recycled throughout the co-op sector and their jobs are secured for life.
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