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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]You can manage this, OP. You just need to be clear about setting boundaries.

Them: Hey, we’re not happy with how the grass is being cared for. Something needs to be done. 
You: That would be something to discuss at the next HOA meeting on Sept 6. 
Them: Sure. But this is really annoying. Can you get the guy to cut the grass better?
You: Again, this sounds like something to discuss at the HOA meeting on Sept 6. I’ve got to run now.

Don’t get mad. Just keep repeating where they can park their complaints and exit the conversation. Practice your response and say it every single time whether they email, call or stop you in person. I do this for an annoying colleague at work that just wants to process everything (non-urgent) on the go. I simply refer her to the scheduled meeting. Once I figured that out, my stress level and annoyance dropped dramatically. [/quote]

I know you are right.[b] I think the mistake I made was in being more willing to answer questions and respond to things when they first moved in because I wanted them to feel welcome. [/b]I guess I got lazy about this because I've never had a neighbor who would have take advantage. But you're right, I need to just set clear boundaries.

Ironically, when we had our last meeting, I circulated an agenda and asked if anyone had any other items to add, and they said nothing, and then didn't even speak at the meeting. And literally the next day were texting me about some issue with the trash cans. It's really like they think I'm their personal neighborhood concierge. Some people are so weird.

But I'm going to try your trick, thanks.[/quote]

It is never too late to set boundaries.

Your stock answer to such issues should be that this is an issue for the board to discuss.  You will be glad to add this to the agenda for the next board meeting, but they should be there for the discussion and should be prepared to present the idea to the board for consideration.

If they show up, when you get to the agenda item, you announce "The next item is XYZ and was suggested by Gladys and Abner Kravitz.  Gladys and Abner, why don't you give your thoughts on this issue"  Put them on the spot and have them present their idea to the HOA board.  If they are not willing to say anything say that you'll table the discussion until next meeting in case anyone else has any thoughts on the topic.  The second time it comes up you say that since no one has had any thoughts on the topic in two meetings, that you're going to remove the issue from the agenda until someone does have something to add, then you'll add it back to the agenda.

When they approach you outside of the board meetings, essentially let them know that you are NOT the super, but that you are the president of the HOA board.  That you will be glad to bring topics to the floor at meetings, but that you don't deal with any issue that has not been addressed by the board and you don't do any actions unless they are approved, sanctioned and requested by the board.  So, dealing with contractors after the board had decided that you will be doing A and B work, is in your purview, but doing what is asked by a homeowner without discussing it with the board is outside your purview as president of the board.  Also let them know that if they aren't prepared to present their topic to the board for discussion, you are not going to do that either.  They can speak up or shut up.

You need to set up boundaries and enforce them so that you are not their doormat.[/quote]

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