Subject: Urgent Petition to Address Proxy Harvesting Issues in Strata Governance

Dear Honourable Ravi Kahlon,

We extend our deepest appreciation for your unwavering commitment to the well-being of homeowners in British Columbia. As we bring forth this petition, we are reminded of a quote from Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan: "The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the one."

The issue we wish to highlight is the pervasive problem of "proxy harvesting" by certain strata council members, who manipulate the system to gain an unfair advantage and control over the decision-making process. For example, in a recent case in Vancouver, a council member collected over 30 proxies by sending employees, such as concierge staff, to solicit proxies from residents in support of their own agenda during the Annual General Meeting (AGM). This unethical practice often preys on vulnerable residents with limited English skills who may not fully understand the consequences of signing a proxy form without the proper information.

While we acknowledge that the Strata Property Act currently does not impose any limitations on the number of proxies that one can collect, this unrestricted proxy gathering has led to numerous complications in strata buildings across British Columbia. Homeowners seeking justice have been embroiled in proxy wars against their own council members, with costly and time-consuming formal complaints being the only recourse, benefiting only legal professionals. This has caused undue stress for those who simply wish to enjoy their homes without being entangled in politics and undisclosed transactions within their strata buildings.

Therefore, we respectfully propose the following changes to the Strata Property Act to prevent conflicts of interest and collusion:

1. Strictly prohibit council members from proactively harvesting proxies to ensure they do not have majority control over the council during AGMs and Special General Meetings (SGMs).

2. Limit the number of proxies that an individual can hold when attending AGMs and SGMs to one, to prevent undue influence.

3. Regulate that strata corporation proxies be explicit and specific in nature, where proxy holders can only vote on motions as specified in the proxy itself. Proxy holders should act as messengers of the vote and not as voters themselves. If new motions are introduced during meetings, proxy holders should not vote on such matters without written consent from the proxy provider. This eliminates bias and ensures fairness in the decision-making process.

4. Require each proxy provider to submit a copy of their identification card along with the proxy, containing their photo and signature, or to issue an affidavit to their proxy collector or attach a notarized specific/general proxy with clear instructions on its use. This measure prevents fraud and forgery of proxy forms.

5. Establish a proper proxy certification process to be conducted by a lawyer hired by the council, not the strata management. Proxies provided by proxy holders should be collected and archived by the council/strata management and made available to homeowners for future investigations upon request within two weeks of receiving the request.

Honourable Ravi Kahlon, as the esteemed Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in British Columbia, in the lack of any solution for this chronic problem, we implore you to take swift action in implementing these changes in the Strata Property Act.

We place our trust in your leadership to prioritize the best interests of all condo owners in British Columbia.

Sincerely,
Mira Nassiri,
Human Rights Activist