As new editor of the RSF Post, I did not expect that one of my first calls to action would come not from a planned story, but from multiple Covenant members who reached out immediately following today’s RSFA Board meeting – frustrated at simply hoping to be heard.
A pattern is beginning to take shape from the past several RSFA Board meetings – one that gives the impression that member participation is endured, rather than welcomed.
According to members, today’s special Board meeting was held via Zoom to announce the appointment of Bruce Jordan to the interim Art Jury position. (Welcome back, Bruce!) Several members were prepared to bring concerns to the Board, but the opportunity never came.
President David Gamboa opened with the announcement of Mr. Jordan’s appointment, thanked the other applicants, and moved directly to adjournment. Before the meeting concluded, a fellow director asked whether member input would be taken. President Gamboa responded that it would not, and the meeting was adjourned.
At least five Covenant members were present and prepared to address the Board.
I get it. It’s Spring Break. Who wants to be at another Board meeting with vociferous members in the middle of unseasonably gorgeous weather? That’s why it’s even more evident that the members who took time to jump on the Zoom meeting for another chance to be heard should not be dismissed. When members take the time to attend, prepare, and participate, the expectation is not indulgence, but basic courtesy.
But here’s why some in “The Family” are mad. It is not just about today. The new meeting policy that limits member comments to the beginning of meetings already restricts meaningful participation. Confining member input to the start of a meeting – before an item is discussed – effectively prevents the Board hearing from members at the moment their perspective is most relevant: when the issue is being considered, debated, and ultimately voted upon.
Choosing to allow no input at today’s meeting only made it worse.
We are not a municipality, nor a city council. We are a homeowners association – one built on neighbor-to-neighbor engagement. Especially those who take the time out of their day to participate.
I like how Director Gamboa refers to us as “The Family.” It feels good. And he’s not wrong. I’d like to think that this Covenant “family” values the same thing: the thoughtful stewardship of the rural, historic hamlet we are fortunate to call home. That Rancho way of life depends on every member feeling confident that they, and their voice, matter. After all, every family has its colorful characters – but we still make room for them at the table.
Kelli Hillard is a covenant resident, and former Art Jury member.