Why Does Good Governance Matter?

When rules, laws, and ethical standards are followed, the HOA Board can focus on the work that matters most—improving our community—without unnecessary conflict or confusion.

Excellence in governance builds trust, ensures fairness, and helps every resident feel confident that the community’s best interests come first.

Commitment to Ethical Conduct

To uphold transparency and accountability, every board member should sign a Conflict of Interest and Code of Ethics document upon taking office and renew it annually. This commitment affirms that each board member’s first obligation is to the Ken Lake community, not personal interests or agendas. This statement may be drafted in the governance committee, and must be agreed on unanimously when first ratified as it cannot be a tool to bully a minority.

Training and Professional Development

Excellence begins with preparation. All board members should complete mandatory training within the first month of taking office, covering:

• Governing documents and HOA laws (RCW for HOAs and Washington Non-Profit Guidelines)

• Conflict resolution, ethics, and financial oversight

• Orientation to VIS systems, budgeting processes, contracts, and the annual reserve study conducted by CEDCORE

These sessions should be open to all residents, with training costs included in the HOA budget beginning in 2025.All governing documents and policies will be made publicly available on the Ken Lake website, ensuring transparency for everyone.

Transparency and Open Meetings

Board meetings are a cornerstone of community governance. All meetings should:

• Be open to residents, with clearly defined opportunities for public comment and discussion

• Be documented through well-written minutes posted promptly after approval

• Be recorded and accessible to residents if conducted via Zoom or other virtual formats

A “board meeting” is defined as any gathering where a quorum of board members convenes to discuss official business.

Residents should always have a clear communication pathway to the board. A designated board liaison will ensure resident questions or suggestions are directed appropriately and placed on the agenda for discussion when needed.

Board and Committee Structure

To improve efficiency and strengthen community trust, the board may consider revising its structure—including the potential use of paid administrative support or management assistance. This review could also redefine board positions and the election process to better reflect community needs.

A Finance Committee, including both board and non-board members, will assist in budgeting, investments, and financial oversight—adding an extra layer of accountability.

All committees, including the Covenants Compliance Committee, should:

• Post meeting notices

• Keep accessible minutes

• Provide regular updates at board and annual meetings

Proper procedures for Executive Sessions will always be followed, including stating the specific purpose of each session and keeping discussions limited to that topic.

Any documents scheduled for review during a board meeting should be shared with the community alongside the agenda so residents can stay informed and prepared.

Accountability and Integrity

Board members must always remember that their primary duty is to serve the community.Any actions motivated by personal interest or hostility toward neighbors are inconsistent with that responsibility.If a committee member—especially within the Covenants Compliance Committee—misuses their position to target or harass residents, appropriate disciplinary action or removal should follow.

By prioritizing fairness and professionalism, we ensure that Ken Lake’s governance reflects the integrity and values of its residents.

Looking Ahead

Transparent, ethical governance allows us to focus our energy where it belongs—on maintaining a safe, beautiful, and connected community.Through open dialogue, professional standards, and shared accountability, Ken Lake can continue to set a high standard for neighborhood leadership.

Together, we can ensure that excellence in governance remains the foundation of Ken Lake’s success.