In situations where the board has the authority to act without a membership vote, but they want to consider member concerns and input, conducting a voluntary, nonbinding poll or survey can be beneficial. Although not legally required, such a survey allows the board to make more informed decisions. The survey of condo owners demonstrates that members' voices and input are being heard and considered before making a decision.
Additionally, it helps the board avoid entering into contracts that members might later vote to cancel at a regular or special membership meeting.
Surveys can help foster a sense of community involvement and engagement by giving residents a platform to voice their opinions and contribute to decision-making processes.
Surveys can help prioritize issues or projects based on the feedback received, allowing condo boards to focus their resources and efforts where they are most needed or desired by residents.
Surveys can be used to identify potential concerns or areas of dissatisfaction among residents early on, allowing condo boards to take proactive measures to address them before they escalate.
By involving residents in the decision-making process through surveys, condo boards can demonstrate transparency and accountability, which can help build trust and goodwill within the community.
When using a poll or survey, the board should explicitly inform members that their input is welcome but that the poll's results are non-binding. This clarity prevents the expectation that the board must vote in a way that reflects the survey results.
In summary, while surveys are not mandatory, they can provide valuable insights and enhance decision-making for condominium boards in Florida.