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What is a Neighborhood Association?

What is a Neighborhood Association?

A Neighborhood Association is a formally organized group of community stakeholders (residents, business owners, clergy etc.) who work for the betterment of their community. An association is open to all members within the boundaries of the recognized neighborhood without bias and has as a regulated and predictable meeting pattern which is advertised in an appropriate manner to all members of the community. An association must have an organizing document ratified by the group which outlines the process by which leadership is elected and finances are recorded.


What is not a Neighborhood Association?

A Neighborhood Association is not an exclusionary group. Associations have broad mission statements which are able to support and reflect the changing needs and wants of the residents over time. Neighborhood Associations are not municipal government entities, desires and choices of the associations are not, and should not, be considered to be reflective of the Town of Irondequoit. Associations are not block clubs, a neighborhood association should encompass approximately 15-20 streets or between 500 and 700 households.

 


Association vs. Watch vs. HOA

We like to say that Neighborhood Watch is one tool in the Neighborhood Association tool box. An association is generally an umbrella organization focused on a wide array of community building activities one of these activities may be a neighborhood watch. A Neighborhood association should not be confused with a Home Owner’s Association or HOA. Participation in an association is voluntary residents have the choice to become involved to the extent at which they feel comfortable. The primary focus of a neighborhood association is community building and enhancement. A neighborhood association can not or create or enforce property maintenance and aesthetic rules such as are common in HOAs. If concerns arise surrounding the condition of a particular property those concerns should continue to be addressed through code enforcement at Town Hall.

 


Will an association charge mandatory dues?

In an effort for associations to remain equitable and accessible to all, the Town does not recommend collecting dues. Associations have no authority to force neighbors to make compulsory contributions.

 


Why Associations?

Neighborhood Associations develop an important link between municipal governments and the residents. An effective association helps community stakeholders to work in conjunction with the public sector to solve problems, communicate effectively and connect residents. In addition, a neighborhood association helps to create strong ties between members of a given community. Getting to know your neighbors helps residents feel safer, valued and more
connected to their community.

 


What Can I Expect?

Associations manage two types of projects. Events and Initiatives. Event opportunities are for residents to connect and meet other families in their community. Examples include but are not limited to: Community Garage Sales, Neighborhood Picnics, Home and Garden Tours, Pot Lucks etc.. Initiatives are ongoing programs and long-term projects which are intended to promote the ongoing enhancement of the community such as public garden maintenance, welcome packages for new neighbors, fundraising for installation and care of public art and unique signage.