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We have a group of neighbors who recently moved in and are trying to start a homeoweners group, and actually want to make it mandatory. We don't want any part of something like that, but because I heard they were trying to find loop holes to be able to make it mandatory I went to the last meeting and got a copy of the by-laws that they are going to try to pass at the next meeting. 21 pages!

I think someone already asked this, but what is their reason for wanting to start a Homeowner's Association?

I am trying to write some different ones to present at the next meeting to get them passed that will tie their hands so that 1. they won't be able to make it mandatory and 2. I won't have to go to every meeting to keep track of what they are up too.

What follows are of course suggestions.

If you present alternative Bylaws, you are in effect, validating the need for a Homeowner's Association. Don't do that. Find out the motive for the people who want this Association. What problems exist that would make a Homeowner's Association desireable? And then, armed with that information, find out what already existing services aare available from government sources such as Planning Board, Police, Water, Sewer, etc can resolve those problems.

Homeowner's Association sometimes try to resolve issues by introducing a layer of bureacracy. How many people live where you do? How long have they lived there? Go around and talk with all neighbors. Have them show up in a support of NO Homeowner's Association, if that is your goal. People that are one the fence about a Homeowner's Association may very well give more credibility to those who have lived in the area longer than most. Use that time in the neighborhood as an advantage.

But do not come there with alternate Bylaws, if you really do not want a HA. Again, doing so, just validates the need for one. Such a move could very well backfire. Organize opposition, go door to door and attend the meetings! There is strength in numbers.