For example, at a Resident Forum in 2018, an Owner suggested the Association pursue Go Grocer as a replacement market operator, and they were sought out directly by management and the Board, and as a result are now operating our store.
Our team ALWAYS greatly appreciates receiving suggestions for improvements. We make note of anything we believe either might be reasonable or worth pursuing or for mentioning to commissions or the Board for possible future consideration. However, everyone does need to keep in mind we operate within a relatively very narrow framework including the approved budget and our management contract, as much as possible. Anything we pursue we have to balance funding constraints, our time and other resources.
I like to use the example of a helipad on the roof. Some might think that’s a fantastic idea. But the logistics and financial realities would make pursuing such an endeavor all but ridiculous. Someone making such a suggestion is putting us in the awkward and uncomfortable position of saying “no”. Its something that arguably would not be worth our time responding to given all the other demands on our time and the Association’s resources. Though I’m sure most of you would agree that’s a ridiculous example and exaggeration, believe it or not we often face requests and suggestions that are obviously financially impossible to pursue.
When Owners and residents make suggestions directly to management, please keep in mind our time has to be prioritized to business and policy approved by the elected Board and the day to day activities required by our Management Contract and governing documents.
Fortunately there are multiple other more appropriate forums to discuss ideas, suggestions and requests for future business, including the Unit Owner Forums at the start and finish of Board Meetings, the quarterly Resident Forums AND through Commission participation. We strongly encourage you to get involved. For most business and improvement ideas, we would suggest participation with either the Home Improvement Commission or Finance Commission for serious consideration of new or future business.
Unit Owner’s also can address questions and suggestions directly to the attention of the Board at anytime, via e-mail at parktowercondo-mgmt@habitat.com,
You can also write directly to the Association:
Park Tower Condo Association
Attention: Board of Directors
5415 North Sheridan Rd. Suite #107
Chicago, IL 60640