One of the great things about living in a community is the opportunity to get involved and attend HOA meetings.

Attending Homeowners Association meetings allows residents to ensure that they have a voice and understand what is going on with their community, but for some, attending meetings isn't always easy.

A Florida State Senator is hoping to make it a state law that Homeowner Association meetings must be held somewhere anyone can attend. The new bill is a result of complaints by some who have struggled to attend HOA meetings due to physical disabilities. Bill 1450 would require that all homeowner association meetings be held in areas that are handicap accessible.

When it comes to community living, it's important for HOAs and property managers to understand that resident interests need to be taken into account. A community only thrives as a result of the residents living in it. Allowing and encouraging volunteer participation brings a different perspective to meetings and ensures that the needs of residents don't get swept under the rug. Whether your board is made up of only volunteers, only professionals or both, it is essential to keep in mind that the interests of the residents are just as important, if not more, than the interests of the board. For tips on how to recruit volunteers to your HOA board, click here.

Stay tuned for more information concerning Bill 1450 and homeowner association meetings.