A member motion to institute a historic Surfside member “Bill of Rights” has been approved by the Surfside board to go to a member vote. And a huge thank you to the board.

The new member “bill of rights” will contain articles such as: members right to have a say in new rules, fee increases and fine increases; more open policy on spending; more transparency in governance and member access to governing documents; guaranteed equal treatment of all members regarding covenants; and openness and fairness on how fines are generated.

This is not a change in the current HOA covenants, just a new and friendlier governance model.

The Aug. 14 newsletter confirmed the historic “member bill of rights” will go to the full membership in a ballot mailing.

Homeowner associations have been getting national news for strife. It is time that a user-friendly, kinder and member-focused rule paradigm be brought to Surfside.

STEVEN WALLACE

Ocean Park