I live in a loft condo, way different than a house. One glaring difference is the HOA governing board, hence, limited autonomy. With election after election in the last 5 years, my expectations for improvements in communications, decisions, and overall management have been high, albeit reasonable. I have trusted the last 3 board presidents to comply with their agreements to circulate surveys among homeowners as to areas of concern and importance. To date, nada! This signals to me that opinions are not welcome. Given my aptitude for quality control, naturally I have opinions about enhancing the functioning of the overall building and promoting well-being. So, I find this frustrating. Issue after issue, I live with constant opportunities to let go of that which I cannot change. Good practice for me yet difficult especially when it involves where I live because I really care. I want to feel safe and secure in the building. (I would be compelled to put my name on the ballot if only I could make a 2 year commitment, pick my mates and affect positive changes.)

We have an elevator that keeps breaking down. Unquestionably, it’s old and needs to be replaced. A couple of weeks ago, I got trapped in it. A terrifying experience! Rightly so, after escaping, I sent a flurry of emails to the management company and the board. Par for the course, there was no response. Whatever is going on, whether it be an overall culture of poor standards and/or steadfast adherence to status quo, this is not a match for me. I intend to remove myself from this system in the near future. Until then, in the spirit of formidable Ruth Bader Ginsberg, I dissent!