Highlands County HOA Attorneys

Determine ownership first: does the HOA own the lake? Members collectively? A separate lake association? If the HOA owns or maintains the lake, you may have water quality obligations. Document the problem with water testing. Some solutions include: aeration systems, treatment (if permitted), restricting certain activities, or coordination with environmental agencies. Environmental permits may be required for lake management. Consult an environmental attorney and water quality specialist. The HOA may not be solely responsible, local government, agricultural runoff, or environmental factors may contribute. Determine responsibility before committing to costly solutions.

Determine who uses the course and owns it. If it's a community amenity, costs may be shared by all members. If it's a golf club service, club members may bear proportionately more cost through club fees. Review documents for assessment methodology. Most golf communities use a combination: general assessment for course maintenance, club member fees for club-specific upgrades. For major renovations, obtain bids, present cost estimates to members, and recommend funding approach. Most Highlands courts expect transparent decision-making for significant expenditures. Consult an attorney to structure assessment properly.

First, commission engineering assessment and reserve study to document needs. Present transparent, detailed cost information to members. Offer multiple funding options: immediate special assessment, phased assessments, financing, or combination approach. Some communities implement phased approaches to ease burden. Educate members on consequences of deferral (increased costs, safety issues, liability exposure). Most Highlands courts expect boards to address documented infrastructure needs. Transparent communication and clear options help members understand necessity. Avoid indefinite deferral, it increases costs and liability.