Condo Living

July 12, 2024 Published by Golden Horseshoe Chapter - By Sienna Molu

Sweet Summertime: Embracing Community and Comfort in Your Condominium

From the Volume 20, Summer 2024 issue of the CCI GHC Condo News Magazine

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, the arrival of summer brings an undeniable sense of excitement. This vibrant season is the perfect time to embrace the warmth of the sun and the community within your condominium. Here’s how you can make the most of this “Sweet Summertime” in your condo, ensuring it is light, positive, and in line with condominium governing documents.

1. Host a Summer Kick-Off Event

What better way to welcome summer than with a community gathering? A summer kick-off event can be a fantastic opportunity for residents to mingle and enjoy the pleasant weather. When planning events, ensure they are well-coordinated, safe, and considerate of all residents to maintain harmony within the community.

2. Beautify Shared Spaces

Summer is the ideal time to spruce up the shared areas of your condominium by adding vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and maybe even a small herb garden. Enhancements to common areas not only beautify the environment but also provide a serene and inviting space for residents to relax and unwind. Consider creating a gardening committee to assist.

3. Promote Healthy Living

With the warm weather, it’s easier to incorporate outdoor activities into daily routines. Organize fitness classes, yoga sessions, or walking groups. These activities promote a healthy lifestyle and create opportunities for residents to engage with each other. Ensuring that all amenities and services are accessible to all residents fosters inclusivity and well-being in the community.

4. Enhance Safety and Security

Summer often sees an increase in outdoor activities and visitors. Ensure that your condominium’s safety and security measures are up to date. This might include reviewing and reinforcing pool safety rules, updating security systems, or organizing safety workshops for residents. A secure environment allows everyone to enjoy their summertime activities with peace of mind.

5. Support Local and Sustainable Practices

Encourage residents to support local businesses and sustainable practices during the summer months. This could include hosting a workshop on sustainable living and eco-friendly practices. By fostering a sense of environmental responsibility, the condominium community can contribute to a healthier planet while enjoying the bounty of summer.

6. Utilize Technology for Convenience

In today’s digital age, technology can greatly enhance the convenience and enjoyment of condominium living. Use condo management apps to keep residents informed about events, maintenance schedules, and important updates. Virtual bulletin boards can be a fun and interactive way to share summer recipes, event photos, and community news. Effective communication ensures everyone stays connected and informed.

7. Plan for the Future

While enjoying the summer sun, it is also a good time to think ahead and plan for future improvements. Engage with residents to gather feedback on what they’d like to see in the condominium. Whether it’s more social events, enhanced amenities, or better maintenance practices, taking a proactive approach ensures that the community continues to thrive and meet the needs of its residents. Planning for major repairs and replacements ensures the corporation is financially prepared for future needs.

Points of Caution

While summer is a time for fun and relaxation, it’s important to keep a few points of caution in mind to ensure a safe and harmonious community:

• Event Coordination: Ensure that any gatherings or events do not cause a nuisance or hazard to residents. Activities in common areas should be well-organized and considerate of all members of the community.
• Safety Protocols: Regularly update and reinforce safety measures, especially around high-risk areas like pools.
• Sustainable Practices: When supporting local and sustainable initiatives, ensure they do not substantially alter the use or appearance of common elements without proper approvals.
• Effective Communication: Use technology to keep residents informed and connected, aligning with the board’s responsibility to communicate effectively. Ensure all data privacy laws are adhered to when using digital platforms.

Sweet summertime in a condominium is all about embracing the warmth of the season and the community. By fostering a sense of togetherness, beautifying shared spaces, promoting healthy living, and ensuring safety, condominium corporations can create a positive and enjoyable environment for all residents. Let this summer be a season of joy, connection, and community spirit, making condominium living truly sweet and memorable.

Enjoy the sunshine and the company of your wonderful condo community!

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Sienna Molu
Shibley Righton LLP