Community Matters

Have you ever wondered what a financial audit really is and why your condo, co-op, or community association might need one? In this episode, “Numbers That Matter: Demystifying Association Audits,” we’re cutting through the jargon and talking about audits in plain English—what they are, why they matter, and what to expect. Our guest for this episode is Mohammed Salyani, CPA. A shareholder at WilkinGuttenplan, Mohammed joined the firm in 2001. He specializes in providing audit, review, and compilation services to not-for-profit organizations, closely-held businesses, and real estate entities such as community associations. He is a co-practice leader of the Firm’s community associations group.  Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play, and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the Podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.  

In his final episode as host, outgoing Chapter Executive Director Tony Campisi speaks with three past Keystone Chapter presidents—Bob Travis, Cathy Dunn, and Jon Katz—about the chapter’s history, key milestones, and future challenges. The conversation covers financial growth, membership and engagement, the impact of COVID, technology and virtual meetings, legislative advocacy, emerging trends affecting community associations and an elusive bottle of Champagne at Bellagio Las Vegas. Tune in to hear personal reflections on volunteer leadership, lessons learned from decades of service, and hopes for the chapter’s future as Tony transitions to a new role within CAI.  Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi sits down with Michelle Baldry, Vice President of Sales with Reserve Advisors and immediate past president of the Foundation for Community Association Research (FCAR). Together, they delve into the pivotal role FCAR plays in supporting community associations through data-driven insights and research. Established in 1975, FCAR provides valuable information to homeowners, association board members, community managers, and developers, aiding them in making informed decisions. Michelle shares her passion for FCAR and its mission to deliver critical research that propels the community association industry forward. The episode explores various FCAR initiatives, ongoing research topics, and the practical impact of their work on associations. From SNAP surveys addressing hot topics to the renowned Homeowner Satisfaction Survey, discover how FCAR's resources benefit community leaders and managers alike. Additional discussion topics include the Foundation's longstanding projects like the Manager Compensation and Benefit Survey, Byron Hanke Fellowship, and best practices reports. Michelle also highlights the importance of collaboration between FCAR and CAI, enabling community associations to be informed, responsible, and great places to live. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to another episode of the Community Matters Podcast, hosted by Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute. This episode delves into the critical nuances of managing and governing community associations with a focus on landscaping and grounds maintenance—one of the largest budget items for many associations. Featuring Melissa Blake from Bates Landscaping, the discussion covers effective strategies for snow removal, drought-tolerant landscapes, and long-term landscape maintenance planning. Whether you're a board member, a community manager, or a homeowner, tune in for invaluable insights into successful landscaping practices, budget management, and fostering a healthy partnership between community associations and service providers. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Join host Tony Campisi and guest, Ben Rosenzweig, PE, President of CoolSys Energy Design, as they explore electrification and microgrid technology in community associations. Discover how these innovations drive energy efficiency and cost savings, while contributing to sustainability and reduced emissions. Learn practical steps and benefits of transitioning to electric systems and maximizing the potential of energy sources like solar and battery storage. With insights into tax credits, financial incentives, and lifecycle cost analysis, this episode guides listeners on planning and executing energy upgrades in condominium and homeowners associations. Gain professional advice on navigating the intricacies of local regulations and leveraging various energy solutions to foster responsible citizenship within preferred communities. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Join host Tony Campisi and guest Brian Weaver, PCAM, with Association Reserves, as they delve into the essential aspects of reserve studies for community associations in this episode of Community Matters. Discover critical insights into the importance of funding reserves, how inflation influences financial planning, and the impact of new legislation on reserve studies. Learn about common misconceptions and best practices to ensure your association's financial health. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this special episode of Community Matters, we're celebrating National Volunteer Month by diving into the inspiring world of volunteering with Lisa Havrilla, CMCA, AMS. As a seasoned community manager and recipient of the CAI Keystone 2024 Rookie of the Year Award, Lisa shares her personal journey and the profound impact volunteerism has had on her life. Discover the joys of giving back, the stories that shaped her commitment to community service, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or considering giving your time for the first time, this episode offers heartwarming insights and practical advice for making a meaningful difference in your community. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters Podcast, host Tony Campisi discusses the essential role of education and training for elected board members of community associations with guest George Greatrex, Esq. The focus is on understanding the intricate legal liabilities faced by board members, especially in light of recent laws such as the Corporate Transparency Act and the New Jersey Structural Integrity and Reserve Law. George shares practice-based advice on safeguarding HOA leaders against personal liability, the importance of knowing their governing documents, and consulting with professional advisors. Learn how to navigate the responsibilities and potential risks involved in being a board member within a community association and ensure you are well-protected and informed. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute delves into the challenges posed by high-conflict personalities within community associations. This episode features insights from Amber Martin, owner of Woo Cat Martin Association Management, and Ed Hoffman, Esq., CCAL of Hoffman Law LLC, as they explore the intensified dynamics following COVID-19 and the strategies to address these issues constructively. Discover practical tools and legal perspectives to help community managers and board members navigate challenging interactions and maintain a harmonious environment. This podcast previews an education session that will be presented by Amber and Ed at the CAI Keystone Annual Conference & Expo, April 30-May 1, 2025 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute delves into the increasingly emotional climate impacting community associations. Joined by guests Garrett Bond, Assistant General Manager at The Philadelphian, and Stefan Richter, Esq., CCAL, with Clemons Richter & Reiss, the discussion explores the shifting landscape of communications and its effect on relationships and interactions among owners, managers, and board members. With insights into the adaptation to digital communication methods like email and social media, the conversation covers the long-lasting impact of COVID on societal behaviors, introducing new dynamics such as the preference for virtual meetings. The guests share firsthand experiences of managing resident interactions during these transformative times. The episode further explores strategies for maintaining professionalism and civility amid heightened emotions, emphasizing the importance of timely, thoughtful responses and listening to build trust and uphold community harmony. Tune in to understand how to navigate these complex emotional and communication challenges effectively. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Community Matters, hosted by Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of the Community Associations Institute. In this episode, we delve into the complex world of collections in community associations, exploring the reasons behind delinquencies and the processes involved in managing them effectively. Our guests, Mitch Drimmer and Reale Edgerton from Axela Technologies, bring their expertise to the table, discussing the differences between engaging collection agencies and attorneys, and the impact of each approach on community relationships. They provide valuable insights into the proactive strategies that can be employed to handle delinquencies, emphasizing the importance of engagement over immediate legal action. Listen in as we explore the challenges of managing long-term delinquencies and the implications of financial hardships on homeowners. Discover how a well-structured collection policy can safeguard the financial health of your community and enhance property values. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the collection landscape and learn practical strategies to maintain harmonious and financially stable community associations. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Join host Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute, as he dives into the complexities of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) with expert guest Paul Formella, co-founder of Perfect Form.  Discover the implications of the CTA, effective January 2024, and learn why it’s critical for community associations to start preparing now. Paul shares his expertise on the requirements, the reporting process, and the potential penalties for non-compliance. Understand the nuances of beneficial ownership reporting and gain insights into keeping your association compliant with ongoing updates. Don't miss this essential discussion on how the Corporate Transparency Act impacts community associations nationwide and the steps you need to take to ensure compliance. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Welcome to the 100th episode of Community Matters! Hosted by Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute, this special episode marks two significant milestones. Tune in to this 100th episode as we prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Keystone Chapter. In this episode, Tony is joined by Brendan Whelan, President-elect of the Keystone Chapter, who shares insights into the chapter's evolution, its current strengths, and future goals. Learn about the chapter's history, from its early days as the Mid-Atlantic Chapter to its current form, encompassing the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and parts of South Jersey and Delaware. Brendan discusses his journey within CAI, the importance of engaging younger professionals, and the exciting plans for the 50th anniversary gala! You'll have to tune in to hear the exciting news as we reveal the location of the 50th Anniversary Gala Celebration! This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in managing and governing condos, cooperatives, and homeowner associations. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Don't miss this episode celebrating the past, present, and future of CAI Keystone Chapter. Tune in now!

Welcome to this episode of Community Matters. This podcast is your go-to resource for critical conversations on managing and governing condos, cooperatives, and homeowner associations. Today, Tony Campisi vacates the host chair and turns over the microphone to the CAI Awards Committee for a special episode taking a behind the scenes look at the CAI Keystone Excellence Award. That’s right – award season is coming up and nominations are now open for the 2024 CAI Keystone Excellence Awards. Tune to this special episode for a deep dive into the Excellence Awards with interviews from the very special members who took home an Excellence Award in 2023. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to this episode of Community Matters. This podcast is your go-to resource for critical conversations on managing and governing condos, cooperatives, and homeowner associations. Drones are everywhere today. But many of us are unaware of the vast applications of drones, including cost savings, safety, risk management, and resource optimization. Drones can perform various tasks quickly and accurately, such as providing reports and footage for insurance claims. During this episode, Community Matters chats with Kathryn Newell, Partner & CEO with IDS Drones, and Carlo Marcantoni, who oversees drone pilots and projects across the US for IDS drones, on the many applications of drones within the community association world. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Community Matters, hosted by Tony Campisi, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute. This podcast is your go-to resource for critical conversations on managing and governing condos, cooperatives, and homeowner associations. In this episode, Tony sits down with Ryan Skimmons and Brienne Jennings from BR Training and Education to explore the concept of psychological safety. Discover why creating an environment where team members feel safe to share their ideas, thoughts, and concerns without fear of negative consequences is crucial for the well-being of individuals and the overall health of your organization and community. Ryan and Brianne delve into the benefits of psychological safety, including reduced turnover, improved team performance, and enhanced employee engagement. They also discuss practical ways community managers can foster a culture of psychological safety, such as adopting a coaching mindset, validating successes, and maintaining empathy and clear boundaries. Tune in for valuable insights into how psychological safety can transform your workplace and positively impact the resident experience in your community. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to this episode of Community Matters podcast, where we discuss issues important to managing and governing condos, cooperatives and homeowner associations. Today's guests are Erica Pelosi and Dana Castellotti, two seasoned community managers who redefined their career paths to step foot into community management. They share their unique experiences in navigating career changes, and how they find immense satisfaction in this evolving role. Erica and Dana give a comprehensive view of their journey, discussing key attributes needed for community managers such as patience, flexibility, and empathy. They reveal the challenges they faced and how they overcame them, shedding light on the importance of top-notch organization skills, high-level multitasking, and a spin of personal uniqueness. This invaluable insight offers encouragement to individuals exploring new professions, especially community management. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.  

Welcome to this episode of Community Matters podcast, where we discuss issues important to managing and governing condos, cooperatives and homeowner associations. In this episode, Denise Adamic, CMCA, Community Association Liaison for Horn Williamson, delves into the challenging world of property losses and insurance claims, providing invaluable insights gained from her over two decades in the industry. As a veteran community association manager who has dealt with three major insurance claims in recent years, Denise's story serves as both a warning and a guide for property owners and managers navigating the complexities of insurance coverage and recovery after a property loss. From in-depth discussion about navigating insurance claims during a catastrophe to dealing with unexpected costs related to remediation and rebuilding after a devastating event, this episode provides firsthand knowledge and helps you learn the practical steps to prepare for potential disasters and understand why it's critical to have an insurance policy that adequately meets your needs. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to this episode of Community Matters podcast, where we discuss issues important to managing and governing condos, cooperatives and homeowner associations. In this episode, we're talking about electronic meetings and electronic voting in community associations. This form of meeting and voting has ramped up significantly in community associations over the last few years and increased participation in association meetings and elections. We’ll talk about why communities should consider e-voting and answer all your questions on this important topic. Tune in the hear more! Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to this episode of Community Matters podcast, where we discuss issues important to managing and governing condos, cooperatives and homeowner associations. Technology has changed the way we do everything. In today's episode of Community Matters, we're chatting with  Ed Hoffman, Esq., CCAL, chair of CAI’s Pennsylvania Legislative Action Committee, about emerging technologies in community associations, including EV charging stations, management software, electronic voting and more. So why are we talking to a lawyer about this? Well, there is a legal aspect to many of the emerging technologies that we're covering. Tune in the hear more! Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.