September Volunteer Leadership Series

Budget Process and Communication

Kathy Sutherland
led September’s lunch and learn workshop to a packed room on September 3^rd. 
The topic was the Budget Process and Communication, and was held in the
training center at Ghertner & Company.

A few topics
from the presentation include:

The Association
Manager, Treasurer and Budget Committee’s role in the budget process;  It takes
team work!

Funds needed for
daily operation of the community and to maintain reserve funds at sufficient
levels.

Reserve funds provide for the repair and replacement of the
community’s assets.

Funds needed for
additions or enhancements to the property; What members of the community want
and are willing to pay for.

Preventative and
routine maintenance; The long term value of a plan for maintenance,
replacement and refurbishment of common area items.

Realistic fees; A fee increase is an investment in the continual upgrading of the community.

Choosing bids
for services; The lowest bid is not always the best bid. Choose the bid
with the best value.

Armed with this knowledge, expenses for the coming year can be projected and compared to the association’s potential revenue.  If expenses are greater than revenue, the committee will look for ways to lower expenses without compromising service.  If that doesn’t  balance the budget, the committee may have to make a tough decision; whether to recommend a fee increase or a one-time special assessment.

These workshops are one of the benefits of management by Ghertner & Company.  If you are a Board member who is interested in learning more about our management services, please contact Kathy at kathleen.sutherland@ghertner.com or 615-277-0314.

Photo’s from the workshop