“Out of Control” Board Push Residents To Complain In Lacey City

Residents of a Lacey City HOA turn to the local government to file a complaint about an “out of control” board. The complaint has led to conflict within the community and its members.

“Out of Control” Board Sparks Complaints

During Thursday’s Lacey City Council session, four residents aired their grievances about what they described as an “out of control” board. The residents alleged that the board was manipulating and violating HOA rules to meet their personal agenda.

The Aldea Glen HOA is north of Lake Lois and east of Carpenter Road. Residents, dissatisfied with their board, voiced their complaints during the public comment section of the council meeting. During this section, the residents brought up allegations ranging from improper meeting procedures to intimidation tactics.

Accusations From Both Sides

Shane Hunter, one of the residents, informed the council that the board called a special HOA meeting. More than half of the HOA cast votes to replace the existing board. However, despite the vote, he claimed that there was no change in control.

Treasurer Robin Wilson contested this, arguing that the meeting was illegal as it lacked proper verification of signatories, with many being out-of-area property owners who rent their residences.

Hunter further accused the board of introducing an additional voting member in violation of HOA rules, alleging that this person had harassed elderly homeowners and bullied neighbors. Concerned about the potential for escalation to physical violence, Hunter appealed to the city council for assistance.

Board President Bridget Gilleese, responding to the allegations, asserted that she could appoint someone to fill a board vacancy until the next general meeting in May. Gilleese acknowledged the lack of May meetings since the pandemic, citing confusion about online meeting possibilities. She denied accusations of harassment or bullying.

Tim Smith criticized the HOA board for a lack of communication, transparency, honesty, and good judgment. Brandon Gardner, an HOA board member, confirmed the lack of transparency and accused fellow members of secret meetings and budget approvals without input.

An Invitation to City Council Members

Joshua King, a co-owner in Aldea Glen, urged the city to devise a solution for HOA disputes. He requested a solution that doesn’t involve costly and time-consuming lawsuits. He suggested increasing city personnel working with HOAs and facilitating hearings at various levels, including administrative law judges.

King also recounted a confrontation during an attempt to inform residents about an upcoming election. He described it as a “screaming and shouting match in the street” that had devolved into unproductive chaos.

As the public comment period concluded, Shane Hunter invited council members, the city manager, and the city attorney to attend the next election. However, Gilleese and Wilson disputed King’s status as a homeowner and criticized the meeting as illegal due to procedural lapses.

The discord within the Aldea Glen HOA prompts residents to seek intervention from the city. They highlight the need for a fair and efficient resolution process beyond the complexities of lawsuits.