Category Archives: Free Speech

Debtors Prisons? This Blows My Mind!

Where have I been? As a reporter, I think I’m pretty streetwise. I know the controversies involving private prisons. But private debtor prisons? That’s beyond belief and I can hardly believe the judicial system has not taken aggressive action against these outrageous prisons. As you watch this short documentary imagine if HOAs could gain the power to create private prisons!

Portland Porch Painter

guest blog by Nila Ridings

One the the greatest things about this Neighbors At War website is it brings people together in a very unusual way. Most women meet for coffee, a museum tour, book club, or quilting retreat to enhance their social lives. Men meet for a beer, golf outing, or a fishing trip to Alaska. But regardless of our “outside” interests we all “meet” every day or a few times per week on this website. Are we just compelled to read about the sickness that prevails in America’s HOAs? Or are we hoping for an outside chance of some humor to be found here?

Great Proposed HOA Bill In Colorado

Guest blog by Stan Hrincevich

SB 15-177 concerns proposed construction defects litigation in Colorado. No Bill is perfect and in the world of HOA homeowners’ rights we seize the moment for any reform especially when it reins in the influence of HOA lawyers, property managers, and abusive Boards. This Bill would require HOA homeowners to approve the use of HOA funds in litigation.

Homeowners would have to be apprised of any intended litigation, informed on the substance and estimated costs, the consequences of unsuccessful litigation such as special assessments, and how the lawsuit is to be financed. A majority vote would be required to use HOA funds. HOAs can still bring legal action for construction defects and individuals can still pursue legal action using their own funds.

Orange County officials dealing with Blossom Park, Tymber Skan Residents living in unsafe condos

guest blog by Deborah Goonan

I have blogged about the Blossom Park condo conversion recently. In recent weeks, Orange County Fire Department has stationed one of its trucks at the scene, and a structural engineer has examined the buildings, including the staircases and upper decks, deeming most of them unsafe. An official report is due this week, and in the WFTV report linked below; Orange County officials expect to order an official evacuation within days.

The County is now providing financial assistance to move the residents – mostly low-income tenants – to safe housing.

Movies About Homeowners Associations

I know of at least four HOA movies in various stages of production. Movies are extraordinarily expensive to do, and to do right. One of the older ones that appears to have stalled had a wonderfully clever trailer….worth watching.

If anyone has an update on this production, please let me know.