Role of Neighborhood Associations
Neighborhood associations unite the people within a community for various purposes. From politics to play, the neighborhood association can help facilitate citizen involvement at the local level, as well as offer venues for entertainment and recreation. Joining a neighborhood association is voluntary, but can provide valuable tools for networking, crime prevention and civic engagement.
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Neighborhood vs. Homeowners Associations
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The fundamental difference between neighborhood associations and homeowners associations (HOA) is that membership in an HOA is mandatory and given only to property owners within a defined community. HOAs usually have restrictions about architecture, landscaping, property rentals and decorative yard displays. Neighborhood association membership does not have the same property restrictions an HOA membership carries. Also, unlike HOAs, neighborhood associations may have members that include homeowners, renters, business owners or people living outside the community.
Information
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Information is regularly distributed to neighborhood association members regarding any issues that may have a direct impact on the community. This includes proposed zoning changes, storm preparation, property tax and real estate concerns. Often, neighborhood associations also distribute information regarding local businesses, schools and churches. This might be done via a neighborhood association website or printed guides to the area.
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Projects
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Projects that neighborhood associations participate in are a reflection of their concerns about creating and sustaining a better community. The association might work with volunteers on an annual clean up or beautification project, or they might work directly with planning and zoning commissions to address upcoming resident and business concerns. Neighborhood associations try to engage in projects that better the quality of life and safety for everyone in the community.
Social Activities
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A neighborhood association often plans a number of activities throughout the year in the community space available, whether that is a clubhouse or outdoor venue. This might include picnics, dinners, dances, concerts or festivals. The social activities are generally advertised and open to both members and non-members for a fee. Some activities may be fundraisers, while others are for recreational purposes only.
Security
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Security is often addressed by neighborhood associations in the form of crime alerts and assistance in forming a neighborhood crime watch. If crime is an ongoing concern within the community, the association might work to petition the town or city for better street lighting or increased police patrols. Many police departments have officers that can work directly with a neighborhood association to help minimize crime in the area. Some neighborhood associations hire private security firms, which are financed by a portion of the association dues.
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References
- Photo Credit neighborhood homes image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com
