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4 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | NOVEMBER 2023 | By Beverly Simmons, Master Board 2nd Vice-President DID DID YOU YOU KNOW??? KNOW??? The Master Board of Directors (MBD) has decided to modernize and improve the fundamental way in which it functions to serve the SLCC community. The management method used by the Board no longer serves the present-day dynamics of SLCC as it may have when initially implemented in the late 1980s. The MBD believes that it is important for all SLCC members to have an appreciation for what the MBD expects to achieve by transitioning to a "Governance Policy Model." This effort will involve the participation of all the governing structure including FirstService Residential (FSR). FSR is committed to working with the Board and community to support the transition as the requisite policy and processes are developed and implemented over the coming months. This article is intended to provide a brief overview of this new method. Governance Policy vs. Management Models The distinction between governance and management models may seem subtle, but that is not the case. A policy model of governance is in stark contrast to the current SLCC management approach where the decision making is determined based upon the particular composition of a specific Board and whatever surfaces as the issue of the day. Priorities tend to be determined by a particular Board or Board member's view of what is important rather than by policy and process. A management model refers to the many administrative functions of an association that drives its operations. This includes maintenance of the premises and amenities; collection of fees, recording real estate transactions, accounting, issuing regular financial reports, budgeting, determining allocation of funds, etc. SLCC has historically outsourced these functions to an HOA management company (MC). In contrast, a governance policy model provides a framework that outlines an organization's general leadership accountabilities and establishes how leaders and members, including the MC, interact. HOAs benefit from establishing governing policies, process, and priorities as the means to manage the operations of the HOA. In their absence, a Board must interact with a general manager and operational staff on a detailed issue-by-issue basis shifting the Board's perspective from planning and oversight to that of micro- managing operations. Governing policies identify the performance standards, values and expectations of the MBD on behalf of SLCC which, in turn, provides more clear and consistent direction for the MC. Governance model Board decisions are predominantly policy decisions. They provide a long-term perspective that embodies the Board's vision, and the HOA's purpose. They establish the methods and activities that can responsibly be delegated to MC and clarify the manner in which the Board delegates authority and how it evaluates performance. Except for what is contained in the Bylaws; policies provide the specific values and perspectives that underlie all HOA decisions, activities, practices, budgets, and goals. Best practice governance models are based in creating policy and process as the primary means to manage and hold operational personnel accountable. This recognizes that Board leadership has a strong influence on how people, at all levels, think and act. It also incorporates ethics, integrity, and a responsible code of conduct to inspire such characteristics in all leaders, volunteers, and workers. More information will follow as this effort unfolds. New SLCC Board Governance Policy Model Overview Did you know that there are some great breakfast specials now in the Sandwedge? The mini–breakfast buffet is back for Saturdays and Sundays from 8 to 1 pm and features many of your breakfast favorites including biscuits and gravy, potatoes, fruit, muffins and of course, bacon, sausage and eggs. It's only $17.95++ and is All-You-Can-Eat! But if that sounds like too much, try the smaller breakfast specials at only $9.99. Come enjoy a delicious breakfast and maybe a glass of champagne, hang out with your friends and watch some football. The Sandwedge is your weekend go-to spot for great food and fun. that the Board Listening Session has evolved into Coffee with the Board? New day, new time, new focus. Join a couple of your Board members on the second Monday of each month at 9 am in the Main Clubhouse Library. This is an opportunity to hear about the overall focus this Board has and ask about current projects and future concepts. Coffee will be provided along with some home-baked treats for your enjoyment. Hope to see you there. there's a difference between governance and management? Management is responsible for day-to-day operations, managing staff and administering the functions of the Association. Governance is the higher authority, the governing body, responsible for oversight, strategic planning, financial planning, setting the organization's goals, direction, limitations and accountability frameworks. The benefits to a "governance" model are many. One of the greatest, and a mainstay of good governance, is accountability which is anchored in strong policies. Board policies describe what needs to be done and who's accountable for it as well as give clear, consistent direction to management so these policies may be executed. In this issue is another more in-depth article explaining the concept of the Board's "Governance Policy Model" which the Board is moving toward.

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