Dear Friend, To the surprise of many, Governor Crist has vetoed the condo reform bill (SB 714), citing safety concerns about extending the deadline for associations to install fire sprinklers in their buildings. Senator Deutch and I joined representatives of community associations from throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties at a press conference recently to express our serious concerns about the Governor’s veto of the bill, and the Legislature’s failure to address the impact of the foreclosure crisis on seniors and others living in community associations.

We called upon the Governor to appoint a task force comprised of community association leaders and representatives, realtors, lenders, banking officials and legislators to address a broad range of condo issues, including the impact of the current foreclosure crisis on community associations.

As a result of Governor Crist’s veto and the Legislature’s failure to address the foreclosure crisis, thousands of Floridians who live in community associations will face increased association fees, also known as assessments, to comply with Florida law and make up for delinquent assessments unpaid by owners of foreclosed units. A perfect storm is brewing and it’s not out in the Atlantic. It’s right here in our community. Condo owners and their associations are about to collapse under the weight of a financial burden with no help in sight.

The condo reform bill would have fixed a glitch created during the 2008 session requiring condo owners to purchase specific insurance, and provide proof of that insurance to their associations. As a result of the veto, associations must continue to request proof of insurance, and may force insurance on owners who do not comply. Additionally, the state-mandated deadline for installing fire sprinkler systems will not be extended, and one to two story condos will not be exempt from having to install a manual fire alarm system. To meet these requirements, unit owners will face increased assessments, which could push many owners closer to foreclosure.

Senator Deutch and I will continue working together to find common sense solutions for the many Floridians who live in community associations, and for the volunteer board members who do their best to uphold Florida law and preserve a quality of life for themselves and their neighbors.

As always, I appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns. Our district office number is (561) 470-6593.
Kelly Skidmore, State Representative, District 90

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