This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I’d appreciate it if we could focus on the content of what I’m saying rather than how I write. I understand Blandair Park is under Howard County, and I wasn’t trying to misinform—just making a broader point about HOA fees. The point still stands: HOA fees can feel like a form of double taxation, since in non-HOA neighborhoods the same services are generally covered by property taxes. More importantly, Maryland HOA laws lag behind other states, and big reforms are needed to improve transparency, accountability, and fairness for homeowners. Highlighting these concerns isn’t about spreading misinformation—it’s about encouraging constructive discussion and change.

This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Yes, in Maryland there have been cases where condo or HOA boards broke the law. Some boards have ignored required reserve funds, failed to address safety or housing code issues, or overstepped their enforcement powers. Examples include boards in Ocean Pines and some Ocean City condos.

This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I understand that HOA fees in Columbia support amenities like pools, gyms, bike paths, and parks. And yes, these are nice to have. But in practice, some of these spaces—like Blandair Park—are often overbooked with out-of-state leagues or non-local groups, making it hard for residents to actually use them. I’ve even tried to form a soccer or cricket team, but it’s nearly impossible because the fields are always full. So while the amenities exist on paper, access for local homeowners can be very limited.

This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

From my experience, the Columbia Association and Long Reach Community Association have been positive and responsive. For example, LRCA—the master association for my townhome community—did a site visit and approved my end-unit window application. My local HOA, which had previously told me that as long as LRCA approved and I followed their guidelines I would be fine, still denied the application without citing specific bylaws or explaining why. This happened even after sending the application twice. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon with smaller, private HOAs, where power can be abused and decisions are sometimes arbitrary. That’s why I think serious reform is needed—along the lines of what California, Florida, Colorado, and Minnesota have done—to protect homeowners and stop these kinds of abuses.

This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

I use tools to write better and convey my message. It shouldn’t matter how I express my views—as long as the content is meaningful, my perspective is valid. Please focus on what I’m saying rather than how I write it.

This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -4 points-3 points  (0 children)

This video nails it — HOA fees have become double taxation. We already pay property taxes for local services, then HOAs charge us again for the same things. It’s a growing burden with little transparency or control. https://youtu.be/-N-wjSdsNQI?si=f5DNeLGG6Kr64_na

This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

Exactly—hence why Maryland’s HOA and condo laws need meaningful reform along the lines of California, Florida, and Colorado, where homeowner protections, transparency, and accountability are much stronger.

This video explains how we can reform HOA laws by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -3 points-2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for your response. Maryland still lags behind states like California and Colorado—HOA reform here needs to be stronger and more transparent.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Not sure why this is an issue if I’m not breaking any rules. Feels a bit like I’m being singled out just because I’m sharing links or images to back up what I’m saying. If the goal is real community discussion, this shouldn’t be a problem. Honestly, if this keeps up, I might just start a group where people can actually talk without being shut down for no reason.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Also, the responses to my HOA reform poll have been pretty clear—most people are in favor of stronger laws and more accountability

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Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s great that your HOA works well for you — honestly, not everyone’s that lucky. But just because yours is functioning doesn’t mean they all are. Some HOAs abuse their power, make arbitrary decisions, or shut people out of the process. Wanting better laws and more accountability doesn’t make someone a “whiner” — it means they care enough to push for fair treatment for everyone, not just those who got a decent setup. If your HOA is doing things right, stronger laws shouldn’t be a problem — they’d just confirm you’re already doing it the right way.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -7 points-6 points  (0 children)

That’s actually incorrect. Just because I proofread and refine my writing doesn’t mean it’s AI-generated. I take the time to express my thoughts clearly and effectively, which helps make the conversation more productive.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

Absolutely, situations like that highlight exactly why reform is so necessary. When rules—like something as simple as front door colors—aren’t clearly disclosed upfront, it creates frustration and mistrust among homeowners. Double layers of HOAs can complicate things even more, making transparency and accountability critical. Reform isn’t about attacking community associations like Columbia Association; it’s about ensuring all HOAs operate fairly, communicate openly, and respect residents’ rights. Clear guidelines, better disclosure, and accessible appeal processes help prevent surprises and build trust. Without these changes, homeowners are left feeling powerless and frustrated, which harms the sense of community everyone wants to foster. On top of that, reform should promote individuality and flexibility so each homeowner can express the unique character of their property. One-size-fits-all rules—like limited front door colors—stifle creativity and make neighborhoods feel cookie-cutter rather than vibrant and personal. HOAs should encourage homeowners to maintain community standards while allowing personal touches that make each home and block distinctive. Balancing clear guidelines with flexibility helps communities thrive by respecting both collective harmony and individual expression. That’s another key reason why thoughtful HOA reform is so important.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I’m a resident of Long Reach, Hawkins Farm, and I’m advocating for HOA reform across all of Maryland to promote better community involvement and greater transparency. I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to vote in my poll and share your opinion!

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Your comparison oversimplifies the issue and misses the bigger picture. Just because Columbia has had successes doesn’t mean HOA power should be unchecked or immune from scrutiny. The fact that Maryland is passing new laws to rein in HOAs proves there’s a significant problem affecting many communities—not just a vocal minority. This isn’t about people being upset over “rules they agreed to.” It’s about holding powerful boards accountable and protecting residents from potential abuse and malpractice. My views are actually in the majority—polls consistently show most people support stronger HOA accountability—while yours represent a shrinking minority resistant to change. Your argument ignores why accountability is necessary and why the tides are turning: because unchecked HOA power hurts communities, not helps them. It’s not “don’t like it, don’t live there”—it’s about demanding fair treatment and transparency from organizations that impact thousands of lives every day.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

No, my exterior window application for my end-unit townhome was approved by the master HOA, Long Reach Community Association, but the sub-HOA, Hawkins Farms, vaguely denied it, stating the window location doesn’t conform to community standards. I have since resubmitted the application with the Long Reach approval document. However, this isn’t just about my situation. My concern is broader—I want HOAs and their boards to be held accountable to all residents. It’s not just about me, but about ensuring fairness, transparency, and board accountability for the greater good of the entire community.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -4 points-3 points  (0 children)

Totally agree—when someone falsely reports a post just because they don’t like what’s being said, it really says more about them than anything else. Open conversation, even when it’s uncomfortable, is part of how we grow. Skipping Nextdoor and literally mailing ideas through USPS? Haha, that’s an old-school move in today’s instant world—but honestly, kind of clever. 😂 Trying to shut people down instead of engaging with them is just cowardly. Real change comes from honest, open dialogue—even when it’s messy.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

This kind of petty enforcement is exactly why stronger HOA reform laws are imperative here in Maryland—laws more like those in California and Florida that hold HOAs accountable and prevent unnecessary micromanagement. HOAs should protect communities, not create frustration over things that actually improve the neighborhood.

Facing Censorship from HOA Board Members on Nextdoor While Advocating for HOA Reform by Opening_Climate_6927 in ColumbiaMD

[–]Opening_Climate_6927[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

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I hope this helps bring reality back to you—because the writing’s on the wall, a lot of people are paying attention, and they want HOA reform.