Journal Notes

by Michael Hamline, Editor / Published June 2023

     This past April Fort Lauderdale received a record 25.91 inches of rain in a 24-hour period, according to the National Weather Service office in Miami. Drivers had to abandon cars, and the historic rain event caused the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to be closed for longer than 24 hours. While it was known a few days before that this storm would most likely produce quite a bit of rain, the amount of rain that led to the severe flooding exceeded what was forecast. Therefore, it was highly unlikely that anyone could prepare for a storm of this magnitude.

     However, Floridians are aware that hurricane season officially starts June 1 and runs through November 30, and therefore they can prepare before a hurricane strikes. In fact, it is hopeful that most community associations have already prepared for hurricane season and have their policies and procedures in place. In case you overlooked an important item in disaster preparation, you can find on page 8 several service providers who have offered best practices to use in bracing for natural disasters as well as steps to take to tighten up your community’s security.

     On page 25, Marcy Kravit with Hotwire Communications shares her recommendations for what to include in developing a disaster plan for community associations. 

     Turn to page 40 to read the article by Jane L. Cornett with Becker on the importance of having a well-thought-out communications component in your community’s emergency response plan. This is vital when the need for voting on repairs from a storm is needed while owners are scattered around the U.S. and abroad. She encourages communities to train their residents on electronic voting so it can be used in a time of crisis.

     Other articles that highlight disaster planning are as follows: Evan Bradley with Campbell Property Management on page 64; Ron Peck with Centennial Bank on page 76; and Heather Vogt, writing on behalf of McEnany Roofing, shares what steps to take to protect your roof and building in a hurricane on page 86.

     This issue also highlights the importance of physical security. On page 34 Jeffrey Rembaum with Kaye Bender Rembaum has written an article that deals with new gun legislation that will take effect July 1, 2023, by asking whether it is possible for a community association to adopt such a rule [prohibiting concealed weapons in the common areas]?

     Additional articles from Envera Systems, Kent Services, and Kings III address safety and security issues.

     FLCAJ wishes you a safe June.

Editor