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NEWENGLANDCONDO.COM NEW ENGLAND CONDOMINIUM -NOVEMBER 2019 21 www.RiskStrategies.com Specializing in Insurance and Risk Management Services for: For more information Contact Thomas Shields | Producer E: TShields@risk-strategies.com P: 781-961-0314 A: 15 Pacella Park Drive, Suite 240, Randolph, MA 02368 Bernie Gitlin | Executive VP E: Bgitlin@risk-strategies.com P: 781-961-0330 C ondominiums C ommunity A ssoCiAtions HoA C ommunities C ooperAtives DAL CPA David A. Levy, CPA, P.C. Certified Public Accountants Areas of expertise in Condominiums ■ Cooperatives ■ Timeshares ALL COMMON INTEREST DEVELOPMENTS Call our office for a complimentary review of your financial needs 617-566-3645 or 866-842-0108 20 Freeman Place, Needham, MA 02492 SERVICING THE EAST COAST FOR 30 YEARS Member AICPA, CAI-NE www.DALCPAPC.net dlevy@dalcpapc.net DavidALevy_E4C_NEC_Sept15:Layout 1 10/7/2015 3:54 PM Page 1 have the ability to levy a special assessment just about any time they choose. “So, in the end, unless the board is spending money inappropriately, I do not see an issue worth pursuit. The caveat, of course, is that different states have differ- ent statutory law. So, in a state like New Hampshire, for example, the ownership has a right to reject the board’s budget and an identical right to reject a proposed special assessment. In such situations, it would be easier to craft an argument that any devia- tion is arguably problematic behavior from the board. Even then, however, absent in- appropriate spending, the issue is not likely worth the investment of time, energy and money necessary to have a dispute. “In other words, if the money in ques- tion is being spent on the association and is being spent within reason in the overall best interest of the association, then a dis- pute may boil down to nothing more than semantics. In sum, absent inappropriate spending, there may be no meaningful re- lief for a disgruntled unit owner relative to the precision with which a board follows every line item of a budget.” n Q&A continued from page 5 the firm, moving into the role of Executive Chairman. “I’m excited for John to assume this new role,” said Christian in a news re- lease. “Since joining the company, he has quickly demonstrated he has the right vi- sion, skill set and experience to ensure the firm’s continued success as we move into our next chapter as a leading national bro- kerage firm.” Mina has worked in the insurance in- dustry for his entire 30-year career and joined Risk Strategies in April of 2017 from Willis Towers Watson, where he was Head of Corporate Risk and Broking, At- lantic South Region. As CEO of Risk Strat- egies, he will be responsible for setting the strategic direction of the company and working as a senior advisor to the leader- ship team while managing the day-to-day operations. In addition, he’ll support the needs of clients, employees, investors and trading partners, the company said. Howe Promoted to VP at Barkan Barkan Manage- ment Company has promoted Cynthia Howe to vice presi- dent. Since 2016, Howe has served as general manager of Barkan Compliance Solutions and as a senior account execu- tive for Barkan Management Co. She will continue in her dual capacity, managing the company’s consulting services for the public and affordable housing sector while assuming her new role as vice president at Barkan Management. “My goal is to provide comprehensive compliance assistance and expert over- sight tailored to our clients’ specific needs, which can include tenant certifications, auditing and oversight, and even full ser- vice management,” Howe said. PULSE continued from page 4 continued on page 22 Disclaimer: The answers provided in this Q&A column are of a general nature and cannot substitute for professional advice regarding your specific circumstances. Always seek the advice of competent legal counsel or other qualified profes- sionals with any questions you may have regard- ing technical or legal issues. for. Managers should also reach out to their peers across the management company.” Being inclusive and making sure everyone feels welcome to participate (or not) in holi- day events is part of running a respectful and socially cognizant community. With knowl- edge of legal guidelines, a sense of the per- sonal needs of your residents, and just plain old good manners, boards and managers can navigate the holidays graciously and festively. n Oba Gathing is a freelance writer and con- tributor to New England Condominium.