Journal Notes

by Michael Hamline, Editor / Published February 2024

     In William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, Juliet asks, “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet…” What is in a name and how important could it be to your community association?

     In his article on page 12 Kevin Edwards with Becker helps communities think carefully about the use of the terms surveillance versus safety when it comes to video cameras. Edwards says if a community installs “security cameras,” then they have taken on a duty to provide security, and they must then provide this security in a non-negligent manner. Thus, the community becomes exposed to liability as is shared in detail in the article by the court’s ruling in Vazquez v. Lago Grande Homeowners Ass’n.

     One of the lessons to be learned Edwards shares, “Associations may wish to be careful not to label the video cameras as ‘security cameras’ and instead let the owners know that the cameras are for surveillance purposes only.” To return to Juliet’s previous question, calling a surveillance camera a safety camera might show the association what’s in a name, and it will most likely not end with a sweet smell or taste.

     The April issue also focuses on those who reside in homeowners’ associations. Leaf through the magazine to page 24 and read the article “What Do Florida’s HOAs Need to Know” to have several best practices presented about HOA living.

     On page 44 Solitude Lake Management shares the issue of toxic water caused by cyanobacteria that can lead to harmful algal blooms (HABs) in lakes and ponds. The article explains what HABs are, how they develop and can be identified, and how they are to be managed so your association’s lakes and ponds look their best and so your homeowners don’t have to be concerned about their health when it comes to the community’s waterbodies.

     On page 50 Unicoat Roofing offers eight money-saving roof maintenance steps. One of those steps is to repair minor cracks or unsealed areas before heavy rain can penetrate the structure, and another is to consider ways to lower energy costs over time. Read the entire article for all the tips.

     If you have any comments, reach out to FLCAJ at 800-443-3433 or email mhamline@fcapgroup.com.

Editor