Community associations in Michigan, California and Virginia were named the 1999 National Community Association of the Year in four size categories by the Community Associations Institute. The 10th annual awards program honors condominium, cooperative and homeowner associations that excel in all aspects of operations, management and community involvement.
"We are proud to showcase these exemplary communities that embody progressive, responsive and effective leadership," said Barbara Byrd Keenan, CAE, president of CAI. "Congratulation to the volunteer leaders and managers of these winning associations for fostering a strong sense of community, competently managing finances and ensuring effective governance."
The winners are: Village Pines Condominium Association, West Bloomfield, Mich., Small (1-149 homes); Rancho San Antonio Retirement Housing Corp., Cupertino, Calif., Medium (150-499 homes); The Belvedere Condominium Unit Owners Association, Arlington, Va., Large (500-999 homes); and Ford's Colony at Williamsburg Homeowners' Association Inc., Williamsburg, Va., Very Large (1000+ homes).
A runner-up was also selected in each size category: Chicago Homes of Dearborn Park, Chicago, Small; The Chatham Condominium Unit Owners Association, Arlington, Va., Medium; Wellesley Homeowners Association Inc., Richmond, Va., Large; and Leisure Village West Association, Lakehurst, N.J., Very Large.
Entrants were judged on organized and productive business operations; thorough and effective communications systems and techniques; fair and effective rules notification and enforcement policies and procedures; and special programs designed to enhance residents' enjoyment of their homes. Winners will be honored at CAI's 47th National Conference in Atlanta, Oct. 28-30, and will receive a large banner to display in their communities.
The Community Associations Institute is a nonprofit association created in 1973 to educate and represent the nation's 205,000 community associations—condominium associations, homeowner associations and cooperatives. CAI members include homeowners, associations and related professionals and service providers.