August 12, 2024 - Blog Post

Fostering a Pleasant and Cohesive Condominium Community

After reading the CBC article 24 Jul about residents living in fear of legal letters (read here), I have been thinking a lot about what kind of environment each of us in the condominium world live in.  Is it cooperative or adversarial?  Is it welcoming or is it aloof?  Are people courteous or rude?  Are complaints and/or suggestions taken seriously?  Are rules enforced?

Boards have a great deal of influence in creating that environment.   Ask yourself, what kind of environment do you want and then reflect on what you have.  Is there a gap?  Is the Board doing what it can to foster the right kind of environment?

The environment you have significantly impacts people’s living experiences and consequently their behaviours.  Is it a good environment? Can it be better?  A condominium corporation can undertake various initiatives to foster a pleasant and cohesive community.  Here are some ideas:

Communication and Transparency

1. Regular Updates: Send out newsletters or emails to keep residents informed about community events, maintenance updates, and important notices.
2. Community Meetings: Hold regular meetings where residents can voice concerns, ask questions, and stay informed about the corporation's plans and decisions.
3. Suggestion Box: Provide a physical or online suggestion box for residents to share ideas and feedback.

Facilities and Amenities

1. Common Areas: Maintain and improve common areas such as lobbies, gardens, and recreational facilities.
2. Fitness and Recreation: Offer fitness facilities, swimming pools, playgrounds, and other recreational amenities.
3. Community Spaces: Create spaces like clubhouses, party rooms, or rooftop gardens where residents can socialize and hold events.

Community Events

1. Social Events: Organize regular social events such as barbecues, holiday parties, movie nights, and game nights to encourage interaction among residents.
2. Workshops and Classes: Offer workshops, fitness classes, or hobby groups to help residents learn new skills and meet their neighbours.
3. Volunteer Opportunities: Arrange community clean-up days, charity drives, or other volunteer activities to build a sense of community spirit.

Safety and Security

1. Security Measures: Implement or improve security measures such as surveillance cameras, security personnel, and secure entry systems.
2. Safety Drills: Conduct regular safety drills and provide information on emergency procedures.
3. Neighborhood Watch: Encourage the formation of a neighborhood watch program to promote vigilance and cooperation among residents.

Environmental Initiatives

1. Green Spaces: Develop and maintain green spaces with plants, trees, and gardens.
2. Recycling Programs: Implement effective recycling and waste management programs.
3. Sustainability Projects: Promote energy-saving measures and initiatives, such as solar panels or water conservation systems.

Maintenance and Upkeep

1. Regular Maintenance: Ensure that common areas and facilities are well-maintained and promptly repaired when needed.
2. Cleanliness: Keep the property clean and tidy, including hallways, elevators, and outdoor spaces.
3. Upgrades: Periodically upgrade and renovate common areas to keep them modern and appealing.

Community Involvement

1. Resident Committees: Form committees for different aspects of community life, such as a gardening committee, social committee, or safety committee.
2. Surveys and Feedback: Conduct regular surveys to gather feedback from residents and make improvements based on their suggestions.
3. Inclusive Decision-Making: Involve residents in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and considered.

Cultural and Diversity Initiatives

1. Cultural Celebrations: Celebrate diverse cultural events and holidays to promote inclusivity and respect.
2. Language Support: Provide language support or translation services for residents who may not be fluent in the primary language of the community.
3. Diversity Training: Offer diversity and sensitivity training to foster an inclusive and respectful community environment.

Every community is going to be somewhat different depending on your diversity, age groups, building amenities, finances, and people’s desires. By implementing some or all these initiatives, a condominium corporation can create a vibrant, welcoming, and well-connected community where residents feel valued and engaged.  It may take some effort and time, but the results will be worth it.

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members” Coretta Scott King, American author, activist, and civil rights leader.

Michael Kennedy
CCI Nova Scotia