Oppose the HOA and Investigate Sentry Management, at Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums
The Issue
After extensive discussions and feedback from the homeowners of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums, we are united in the decision to address urgent concerns regarding the leadership and management of our community. More than 60% of stakeholders have cast their votes in favor of an immediate change in leadership. Consequently, the current Volunteer President's tenure has come to an end, effective immediately. A new, proactive Board will be formed, composed of committed Directors and Committee Chairs. This decision reflects the need to safeguard the long-term livability and integrity of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums.
Key Issues Demanding Immediate Action:
1. Misrepresentation of Board Leadership: On August 31, 2024, a senior resident was listed as the CFO and Secretary of the Board in official filings, though she had never agreed to serve in these capacities. The 87-year-old homeowner was unaware of her involvement and denies signing any financial documents, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of our board filings with the Secretary of State. This incident highlights potential elder abuse and misrepresentation.
2. Neglect of Property Maintenance: Our community has been plagued by persistent maintenance issues, including structural damages that threaten property values. The failure to conduct essential repairs has resulted in poor code ratings, rendering potential buyers unable to secure FHA loans. Despite $66,954.00 being allocated for management and administrative fees, the necessary work remains undone. Moreover, recent inspections rate our buildings poorly, yet the outgoing President and Sentry Management refuse to provide homeowners with the detailed report.
3. Lack of Transparency and Accountability: Communication between the HOA, Sentry Management, and the homeowners has been inconsistent, with vital updates and financial reports withheld. This lack of transparency violates the principles outlined in our Founding Articles and has caused a significant breach of trust.
4. Financial Mismanagement and Excessive Fees: The approval of a $1 million loan and proposed HOA fee increases to $350 - $529 per month in 2025 were not approved by homeowners. Without a clear, transparent plan for how these funds will be used to restore the property, we reject these financial obligations and demand accountability for the $208,330.00 for the current fiscal year budget. A comprehensive audit is required.
5. Breach of Fiduciary Responsibilities: The current Volunteer President and Sentry Management have failed to meet their fiduciary duties of care, loyalty, and obedience to the homeowners. Their actions, or lack thereof, have led to the mismanagement of community funds and deteriorating living conditions. This mismanagement necessitates immediate leadership change and an investigation into the potential misappropriation of funds.
Action Plan and Immediate Steps:
- Leadership Change: The current Volunteer President has been removed from office, and a new, committed Executive Board will be appointed, supported by engaged homeowners. This change is critical for the effective governance of our community.
- Termination of Sentry Management Company: Due to multiple violations and breaches of contract, we are terminating Sentry Management's services immediately. We will seek new management companies to restore trust and ensure that Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums is properly maintained.
- Correction of Business Filings: The filings with the Secretary of State will be corrected to reflect accurate Board membership. No homeowner will be listed as a Board member without their express consent and active participation.
- Investigation into Misappropriation of Funds: We demand a full investigation into any financial discrepancies. If funds have been misused, we expect restitution to be made to the homeowners. Legislators and law enforcement, including the FBI, will be engaged to ensure a thorough investigation.
- No Increases in Dues or Loans Without Homeowner Approval: Any proposals to increase HOA dues or take on loans will require a majority vote from homeowners, accompanied by a clear plan for the use of funds. Transparency is non-negotiable moving forward.
Petition and Call to Action:
The homeowners of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums have voted to remove the current leadership and terminate Sentry Management Company for cause. We are committed to rebuilding a stronger, more transparent, and inclusive community that prioritizes proper maintenance and financial stewardship. Our shared goal is to create a safe, thriving environment for all residents.
We invite homeowners to sign this petition to support these necessary changes. We have seen similar issues arise in other communities, and by standing together, we can enact meaningful change.
Date: September 2024
Legal Proceedings: Despite the majority vote, the outgoing Board is refusing to relinquish control. Therefore, we are pursuing civil litigation on the following grounds:
1) Refusal to hand over power to the newly elected Board.
2) Refusal to hold Board meetings.
3) Refusal to report alleged missing or stolen HOA funds.
4) Refusal to provide access to HOA record books, including financials.
5) Refusal to hold general meetings and elections.
6) Failure to repair critical facilities such as the clubhouse, gym, and pool.
7) Refusal to reimburse homeowners for necessary external repairs.
8) Failure to address building hazards, including unsafe roofs, leaks, raw sewage, electrical dangers, and black mold.
9) Inconsistent HOA dues collection, including demands for cash payments with no receipts.
10) Failure to obtain and maintain insurance.
11) Refusal to provide governing documents.
12) Refusal to disclose the terms of Sentry Management’s contract and services.
13) Noncompliance with Georgia state laws governing HOAs/COAs.
We, the homeowners, demand change and are prepared to take all necessary actions to protect our community. We stand in solidarity with other communities managed by Sentry Management Company, or similar management companies, that have exhibited a pattern in practice of HOA mismanagement. Together, we will advocate for transparency, accountability, and responsible governance.
Sincerely,
The Homeowners of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums
Georgia House Bill HB303
Community Association Transparency and Protection Act; enact
Summary
A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 3 of Title 44 of the O.C.G.A., relating to regulation of specialized land transactions, so as to provide for protections for homeowners, condominium owners, and property owners in community associations; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Georgia House Bill HB885
Community Association Transparency and Protection Act; enact
Summary
A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 3 of Title 44 of the O.C.G.A., relating to regulation of specialized land transactions, so as to provide for protections for homeowners, condominium owners, and property owners in community associations; to provide for a short title; to provide for definitions; to require declarants, developers, or other establishing entities to provide for budgets and reserve account funding for maintenance of community amenities; to require performance and maintenance bonds for community amenities; to implement requirements and procedures for turnover and transition from declarants, developers, or other establishing entities to property owners comprising the community association; to provide for civil causes of action for violations; to provide for civil penalties for violations and the recovery of litigation costs; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Georgia Senate Bill SB29
Property Owners' Associations; certificates of good standing for payment of annual assessments; provide
Summary
A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 6 of Chapter 3 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to property owners' associations, so as to provide for certificates of good standing for payment of annual assessments; to require associations to offer to participate in alternative dispute resolution prior to the effectuation of a lien on a lot for unpaid assessments; to provide that such a lien shall be inferior to liens for unpaid medical bills; to provide for alternative dispute resolution policies and requirements therefor; to provide for a definition; to provide for related matters; to provide for applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Georgia Senate Resolution SR37
Senate Property Owners' Associations, Homeowners' Associations, and Condominium Associations Study Committee; create
Summary
A RESOLUTION creating the Senate Property Owners' Associations, Homeowners' Associations, and Condominium Associations Study Committee; and for other purposes.
Senate Committee on Rules: Subcommittee on Homeowners Associations: https://vimeo.com/showcase/9027934?video=1011049259
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The Issue
After extensive discussions and feedback from the homeowners of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums, we are united in the decision to address urgent concerns regarding the leadership and management of our community. More than 60% of stakeholders have cast their votes in favor of an immediate change in leadership. Consequently, the current Volunteer President's tenure has come to an end, effective immediately. A new, proactive Board will be formed, composed of committed Directors and Committee Chairs. This decision reflects the need to safeguard the long-term livability and integrity of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums.
Key Issues Demanding Immediate Action:
1. Misrepresentation of Board Leadership: On August 31, 2024, a senior resident was listed as the CFO and Secretary of the Board in official filings, though she had never agreed to serve in these capacities. The 87-year-old homeowner was unaware of her involvement and denies signing any financial documents, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of our board filings with the Secretary of State. This incident highlights potential elder abuse and misrepresentation.
2. Neglect of Property Maintenance: Our community has been plagued by persistent maintenance issues, including structural damages that threaten property values. The failure to conduct essential repairs has resulted in poor code ratings, rendering potential buyers unable to secure FHA loans. Despite $66,954.00 being allocated for management and administrative fees, the necessary work remains undone. Moreover, recent inspections rate our buildings poorly, yet the outgoing President and Sentry Management refuse to provide homeowners with the detailed report.
3. Lack of Transparency and Accountability: Communication between the HOA, Sentry Management, and the homeowners has been inconsistent, with vital updates and financial reports withheld. This lack of transparency violates the principles outlined in our Founding Articles and has caused a significant breach of trust.
4. Financial Mismanagement and Excessive Fees: The approval of a $1 million loan and proposed HOA fee increases to $350 - $529 per month in 2025 were not approved by homeowners. Without a clear, transparent plan for how these funds will be used to restore the property, we reject these financial obligations and demand accountability for the $208,330.00 for the current fiscal year budget. A comprehensive audit is required.
5. Breach of Fiduciary Responsibilities: The current Volunteer President and Sentry Management have failed to meet their fiduciary duties of care, loyalty, and obedience to the homeowners. Their actions, or lack thereof, have led to the mismanagement of community funds and deteriorating living conditions. This mismanagement necessitates immediate leadership change and an investigation into the potential misappropriation of funds.
Action Plan and Immediate Steps:
- Leadership Change: The current Volunteer President has been removed from office, and a new, committed Executive Board will be appointed, supported by engaged homeowners. This change is critical for the effective governance of our community.
- Termination of Sentry Management Company: Due to multiple violations and breaches of contract, we are terminating Sentry Management's services immediately. We will seek new management companies to restore trust and ensure that Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums is properly maintained.
- Correction of Business Filings: The filings with the Secretary of State will be corrected to reflect accurate Board membership. No homeowner will be listed as a Board member without their express consent and active participation.
- Investigation into Misappropriation of Funds: We demand a full investigation into any financial discrepancies. If funds have been misused, we expect restitution to be made to the homeowners. Legislators and law enforcement, including the FBI, will be engaged to ensure a thorough investigation.
- No Increases in Dues or Loans Without Homeowner Approval: Any proposals to increase HOA dues or take on loans will require a majority vote from homeowners, accompanied by a clear plan for the use of funds. Transparency is non-negotiable moving forward.
Petition and Call to Action:
The homeowners of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums have voted to remove the current leadership and terminate Sentry Management Company for cause. We are committed to rebuilding a stronger, more transparent, and inclusive community that prioritizes proper maintenance and financial stewardship. Our shared goal is to create a safe, thriving environment for all residents.
We invite homeowners to sign this petition to support these necessary changes. We have seen similar issues arise in other communities, and by standing together, we can enact meaningful change.
Date: September 2024
Legal Proceedings: Despite the majority vote, the outgoing Board is refusing to relinquish control. Therefore, we are pursuing civil litigation on the following grounds:
1) Refusal to hand over power to the newly elected Board.
2) Refusal to hold Board meetings.
3) Refusal to report alleged missing or stolen HOA funds.
4) Refusal to provide access to HOA record books, including financials.
5) Refusal to hold general meetings and elections.
6) Failure to repair critical facilities such as the clubhouse, gym, and pool.
7) Refusal to reimburse homeowners for necessary external repairs.
8) Failure to address building hazards, including unsafe roofs, leaks, raw sewage, electrical dangers, and black mold.
9) Inconsistent HOA dues collection, including demands for cash payments with no receipts.
10) Failure to obtain and maintain insurance.
11) Refusal to provide governing documents.
12) Refusal to disclose the terms of Sentry Management’s contract and services.
13) Noncompliance with Georgia state laws governing HOAs/COAs.
We, the homeowners, demand change and are prepared to take all necessary actions to protect our community. We stand in solidarity with other communities managed by Sentry Management Company, or similar management companies, that have exhibited a pattern in practice of HOA mismanagement. Together, we will advocate for transparency, accountability, and responsible governance.
Sincerely,
The Homeowners of Jeff Davis Intown Condominiums
Georgia House Bill HB303
Community Association Transparency and Protection Act; enact
Summary
A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 3 of Title 44 of the O.C.G.A., relating to regulation of specialized land transactions, so as to provide for protections for homeowners, condominium owners, and property owners in community associations; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Georgia House Bill HB885
Community Association Transparency and Protection Act; enact
Summary
A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Chapter 3 of Title 44 of the O.C.G.A., relating to regulation of specialized land transactions, so as to provide for protections for homeowners, condominium owners, and property owners in community associations; to provide for a short title; to provide for definitions; to require declarants, developers, or other establishing entities to provide for budgets and reserve account funding for maintenance of community amenities; to require performance and maintenance bonds for community amenities; to implement requirements and procedures for turnover and transition from declarants, developers, or other establishing entities to property owners comprising the community association; to provide for civil causes of action for violations; to provide for civil penalties for violations and the recovery of litigation costs; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Georgia Senate Bill SB29
Property Owners' Associations; certificates of good standing for payment of annual assessments; provide
Summary
A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 6 of Chapter 3 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to property owners' associations, so as to provide for certificates of good standing for payment of annual assessments; to require associations to offer to participate in alternative dispute resolution prior to the effectuation of a lien on a lot for unpaid assessments; to provide that such a lien shall be inferior to liens for unpaid medical bills; to provide for alternative dispute resolution policies and requirements therefor; to provide for a definition; to provide for related matters; to provide for applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
Georgia Senate Resolution SR37
Senate Property Owners' Associations, Homeowners' Associations, and Condominium Associations Study Committee; create
Summary
A RESOLUTION creating the Senate Property Owners' Associations, Homeowners' Associations, and Condominium Associations Study Committee; and for other purposes.
Senate Committee on Rules: Subcommittee on Homeowners Associations: https://vimeo.com/showcase/9027934?video=1011049259
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Petition created on September 27, 2024