For Some, It Can Pay to Play by Association Rules

Regarding “Orderly or Oppressive?” by Julie Bawden Davis, Aug. 25: How about some positive “Points to Consider”?

Do you appreciate looking out on well-cared-for lawns and trees knowing you don’t have to wield a lawn mower and can still have a patio to grow flowers? Do you like having a clean swimming pool a few houses away so your family doesn’t have to use an over-chlorinated municipal pool?

Financially speaking, including paying dues, don’t you get more square footage, more amenities, etc., by being part of a community association? Are you willing to do your part by being on a committee or serving on a board for a while so you’ll have a well-run association?

Are you willing to live with some rules you may not be crazy about because overall, the quality of life a community association can provide suits your lifestyle?

My answer to all of these is a resounding “yes.”

VIRGINIA H. DAVIS

Newport Beach

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It was hard for me to feel much sympathy for the people living with the restrictions imposed by common-interest developments. Perhaps they should consider buying a townhouse in my common-interest development.

Shortly after buying my property two years ago, I discovered the board of directors existed in name only. The pool has no furniture and has been closed by the health department, the tennis court concrete is sinking and is about to fracture, fire lanes have become designated parking, and taggers frequently grace the property with their art.

My petitions and letters of complaint to the management company, local and sate agencies have been highly ineffective and have only seemed to raise my blood pressure. To file a lawsuit would be highly masochistic.

I have, however, found a simple solution to this life of anarchy: I’m moving to a single-family residence.

BILL GRANT

Alhambra