Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Chris Ragan
What will trade diversification cost Canada?
Every day, we hear about the need to reduce our reliance on trading with the United States. In 2025, total Canadian exports of goods and services were slightly more than $1 trillion and 67 per cent of that went to the U.S. Our imports from America were only a little less.
Diversifying Canada’s Trade
Shaimaa Yassin is a senior research director at the Institute for Research on Public Policy. She leads the Toward a More Equitable Canadaresearch program, which has published studies on affordability, including housing and other basic needs that intersect with climate and energy policy, food insecurity and income supports for lower income Canadians, and proposed dental care and pharmacare programs.
An Open Letter from Economists on Canadian Carbon Pricing
As economists from across Canada, we are concerned about the significant threats from climate change. We encourage governments to use economically sensible policies to reduce emissions at a low cost, address Canadians’ affordability concerns, maintain business competitiveness, and support Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Canada’s carbon-pricing policies do all those things. There is plenty of discussion about carbon pricing in Canada today.
Carbon-Pricing Exemptions Are the Wrong Way to Keep Energy Affordable
Facing rising energy prices and legitimate concerns around affordability, the federal government is under pressure to carve out exemptions to its carbon pricing system, particularly for rural home-heating fuel in Atlantic Canada. Keeping essentials like energy affordable is a serious concern, but carbon-pricing exemptions are the wrong solution.
So, You Received a Written Inquiry
So, your community association received correspondence that requests answers to certain questions. You may have just received what is also referred to as a “written inquiry.” What to do? First and foremost, you should always ensure that the Board of Directors and legal counsel of your community association are promptly advised of the receipt of a written inquiry.
Simplifying Official Records Inspections for both the Association and the Owners
Condominium associations, cooperatives, and homeowners’ associations are all required to maintain and make available to owners official records of the association.
Can the Directors and Members of Your Community Association Meet and Vote Remotely?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, people and businesses alike struggled to meet, organize, and otherwise conduct business in person due to quarantine measures and social distancing policies.
Community Association Budgeting in the “Sunshine”
"Sunshine" laws require transparency and disclosure in government and business. Community associations have their own of "sunshine" requirements. Are there any "sunshine" requirements for the budgeting process? In other words, what parts of the budget process must community boards ensure to make open, available, or transparent to community members?
“Sunshine Laws” for Condominium Associations
Issues generally arise in community associations when there is or appears to be a lack of transparency between the board of directors and the association members. The Florida’s Sunshine in the Government Act, or the “sunshine laws,” require transparency and disclosure in government and business.
Tips, Tricks and Things You Can Mix
In this article, I am going to review some tips and suggested procedures to deal with some common misperceptions and/or misunderstandings in regard to various association items. These suggested procedures are based on what I have found to be recurring questions / actions or inactions from and/or by associations. Let’s dive right in.
Can the Board Enforce Restrictions that the Previous Board Failed to Enforce?
The short answer is yes. But not so fast. The correct procedures must be followed. The Board needs to put owners on notice that from this point onward, the restriction that was previously unenforced will now be actively and evenly enforced. This is done through a Board resolution adopted at a duly noticed Board meeting. Association counsel should draft the resolution to ensure that the necessary language is included to begin properly enforcing the restriction(s) going forward.
Is your Community Association Set up to Vote Electronically?
With election season upon us, has your community set up electronic voting? In many communities, voter apathy is an issue with members not returning their proxy and not attending meetings. Not only does this impact elections, but also other membership votes, such as amending the governing documents, voting on material alterations, etc.. One way to simplify the voting process for members is for the community to authorize and implement electronic voting.
Lender Questionnaires
Associations and association managers routinely receive what are referred to as lender questionnaires on a regular basis. What is a lender questionnaire? A lender questionnaire is usually a request from a bank, lending institution or title company that requests the Association provide information about the community to the lender.
Understanding the Distinction between the Different Association Governing Documents
A recent decision from Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal highlights the importance of understanding the distinction between the different documents that govern the Association, as well as when and how each needs to be amended. Many people use the term “bylaws” as a catch-all term to describe the entire set of documents, but each document serves a different purpose, even if there is some overlap in provisions from time to time. The case is Joy v.
Vetting Contractors and Contracts
If you live in a condominium or cooperative association in Florida, it may seem like your building is in a constant state of repair. Roofing. Painting. Concrete restoration. Pool deck. Pool re-marciting or diamond briting. Asphalt. Pavers. Elevators. Windows. The list goes on and on, and the work goes on and on. With the new statutory structural integrity inspections and reports that are now required, the work will only increase.
Disputes in Community Associations: Arbitration, Mediation, or Litigation?
Disputes within community associations were originally treated like other civil disputes, requiring litigation when the parties could not agree. The law evolved to now require certain types of “alternate dispute resolutions” for community associations before the parties head to court.
Chris Ragan: Why politics and central banking shouldn't mix
By: Chris Ragan Pierre Poilievre promised in Thursday night’s Conservative leadership debate to fire the governor of the Bank of Canada when he becomes prime minister. In a debate in which many unusual things were said, this was probably the most shocking. And former Quebec premier Jean Charest was right when he said that making such claims is irresponsible because it undermines the effectiveness and credibility of an important Canadian institution.
2022 Community Association Legislation—What Happened? - FCAP
After the Surfside tragedy, everyone wanted to know how such a tragedy could happen and what steps could be taken to avoid similar incidents in the future. What caused the collapse? Could it have been avoided? Why were repairs not made? Why did local governments allow repairs to drag on? Why were repairs not made in a timely fashion? Unfortunately, none of these questions can be answered quickly, and proper answers will require years of study and analysis.
Absentee Owners and Unoccupied Condominium Units
In condominium associations throughout the state, it is common for there to be seasonal unit owners who leave their units unoccupied during portions of the year. For associations faced with periodically unoccupied units in multifamily condominium buildings, there are distinct legal issues worth considering in advance of problems arising. Florida’s Condominium Act (the “Act”) does not require absentee unit owners to have their unoccupied units periodically inspected for damage or deterioration.
Should an Association Allow Its Clubhouse, or Other Common Area, to Be Used for Gambling?
While there are certain exceptions, generally, any game of chance is considered gambling. Section 849.08, Florida Statutes, defines gambling as follows: The first type of gambling games, which are not subject to criminal penalties, are penny-ante games.
Switching Hats: Can a Lawyer Who Represents an Association also Serve as a Member of the Client’s Board of Directors?
The short answer: there is no express prohibition against this, but it’s complicated and not recommended for either the association or the lawyer. There are several ethical issues that arise due to the lawyer’s duties to the entity as its counsel, fiduciary duties to the entity as a director, and the lawyer’s personal self interest in both roles.
Board Member Tidbits
For this issue’s article, I thought I would just jump around and discuss various items regarding board members, board meetings and a few association operational issues that keep popping up as questions and issues. Let’s start with the Board member certification requirement, which applies to condominiums, homeowner associations and cooperative association board members.
The Association’s Responsibility for Wildlife on the Property
As Floridians, we are familiar with various types of wildlife surrounding our neighborhoods. It’s not uncommon to spot feral cats and ducks while walking the dog, or large iguanas out on the golf course. And let’s not forget about the numerous alligators, as well as coyote and black bear sightings. As new communities develop and expand into natural habitats throughout the state, interactions between residents and wildlife are increasingly common.
“Drawing a Line in the Sand” by Reviving Previously Unenforced Restrictions
The previous boards failed to enforce the parking restrictions in the community, and now parking has become a nightmare. The new board would like to remedy the solution, but can the board begin to enforce a restriction that has not been enforced in the past? Generally, the association may lose its right to enforce a restriction if it does so inconsistently, unevenly, or arbitrarily.
Are Dangers Lurking Within the Bank of Canada’s New Mandate?
Last week the Government of Canada and the Bank of Canada issued their joint statement outlining the Bank’s mandate for the next five years. For those of us who follow the Bank’s policy actions closely, the statement was more than a little odd. Some might even think it contained some real problems and potential inconsistencies which will make the Bank less effective at its central task of keeping inflation low and stable.
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail. A simple phrase. Not always so simple to comply with; easy to overlook or take for granted, especially in a community association context. There are many technical provisions of the statutes governing community associations that must be complied with. Chapters 607, 617, 718, 719 and 720, Florida Statutes have numerous requirements that associations must adhere to. Some examples are meeting notice requirements, board member eligibility requirements, record inspections and others.
Limited Common Elements: What Are They and Who Is Responsible?
Condominiums generally consist of the following two components: 1) the units that are subject to exclusive ownership by one or more persons, and 2) the common elements, which are any areas not included within the unit boundaries. Unit owners, in addition to the exclusive ownership of their units, also own an undivided share in the common elements.
To Mediate or Arbitrate….? A New Pre-Suit Option for Resolving Disputes in Condominium Associations
As most condominium association boards and managers are aware by now, Section 718.112(2)(k), Florida Statutes, of the Condominium Act, was most recently amended to require a condominium’s bylaws to include a provision for alternative dispute resolution as provided in Section 718.1255, Florida Statutes.
Maintaining Civility in Community Associations
This past year has brought out divisiveness and discord at all levels of governance, including community associations. Although emotions always seem to run particularly high, community associations have been filled with neighbors with differing values, preferences, and opinions as to how the association should be run and maintained. Even pre-COVID, association governance could become intensely personal.
Hurricane Preparation
Yes, it’s that time of year again. The six month long hurricane season in South Florida. South Florida has seen an increase in hurricane activity over the past years, and that is expected to continue this year. Let’s look at some ways community associations to prepare for such storms. Information on how to prepare for storms and emergencies usually revolves around preparing the building, securing association property, etc.
Playing for Keeps – What Rights and Authority Is an HOA Developer (or Successor Developer) Allowed to Keep after Turnover? - FCAP
For many Homeowners’ Association (“HOA”) owners and board members, the words “turnover” and “transition” are two of the most anxiously anticipated yet mysterious terms in community association lingo.
The Ins and Outs of Preparing a Condominium Association Budget
In many ways, the managing and operating of a condominium association is akin to operating a business. A primary similarity is the importance of careful and accurate financial planning and budget preparation. The board of directors of an association has fiduciary duties to its members. By paying close attention to the legal and technical requirements of condominium association budget preparation, the association can better assure its members of a smooth-running fiscal year ahead.
Know When To Call Your Professional
What a year. Because of COVID-19 issues, associations have dealt with owners working from home, children remote learning, contractor issues, common area issues, the pool, the gym, the visitors, the cleaning, the quarantine, the masks, and so on. Quite a year indeed. Many associations have spent more time speaking with their attorney, and hopefully insurance agents, than they would have liked to.
Condominium Association Elections – The Who, What, When, and Where - FCAP
Your condominium association elections for your Board of Directors are governed by the Florida Condominium Act (Chapter 718 of the Florida Statutes), and Rule 61B-23.0021 of the Florida Administrative Code. Your association governing documents may also contain requirements for your election. Generally, these requirements are contained in the association’s By-Laws. With this in mind, there a number of key deadlines and procedures that the association must follow to have a valid election.
Weighing the Costs – Common Sense/”Cents” COVID-19 Measures for Community Associations Reopening Common Elements and Common Facilities - FCAP
One full year into the COVID-19 pandemic and people have really started to appreciate (or abhor) their neighbors. The extra time at home or stuck in one’s condominium unit has caused an increased sense of awareness and, in some cases, aggravation regarding the comings and goings and habits of our neighbors.
New Laws Regarding Emotional Support Animals
Other than political debate, perhaps nothing else evokes more of an “emotional” response than the issue of emotional support animals in a no pet community.
How Community Associations Can Handle the Continuing Popularity of Short-Term Rentals
Despite a year that has drastically curtailed traveling due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the popularity of online vacation and short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb and others, has persisted as people have sought escapes to private homes instead of hotels and to upgrade their work-from-home routines to somewhere with a view.
The “Nuisance Problem”
It seems like everybody’s got a problem with somebody these days. Sure, certain quirks and behaviors can certainly be classified as “annoying.” Who isn’t annoyed by that neighboring co-worker or spouse that insists on singing loudly and proudly, not to mention off-key, even with their earphones plugged in?? While irritating, not every annoyance rises to the level of a legally actionable nuisance.
Distinguishing between Statutory and Non-Statutory Reserves under the Florida Homeowners’ Association Act
Considering the fiduciary responsibilities officers and directors have to the homeowners’ association’s members, it is important to understand not only the importance of including reserve accounts in an association’s budget, but also to understand when reserve funding is mandatory under the Florida Homeowners’ Association Act. Unlike condominium associations, maintaining fully funded reserve accounts is not always mandatory for homeowners’ associations.
Political Signs - FCAP
Increasingly, I am being asked by clients about whether they can prevent residents from displaying political signs from their units or lots. These clients all have restrictions against signs in their governing documents. The main concern, and response to enforcement, relates to the First Amendment: the right to free speech.
Sit Back and Enjoy the Ride
Practical Considerations for Condominium Boards Regulating Electric Vehicle Charging Stations On July 10, 2020, Governor Ron DeSantis announced over $8 million of the state’s budget this year will be dedicated to strengthening Florida’s electric vehicle infrastructure. The intent of what Gov.
Budgets - FCAP
With budget season approaching, Florida community associations must consider their capital expenditures and long-term maintenance needs. Community associations set aside a portion of their budgets for capital expenses and deferred maintenance, frequently referred to as “reserves.” The reserves are for expenses that do not occur on a regular basis and reserves are designed to ensure that funds will be available for repairs and maintenance without the need for special assessments.
Association Loans/Lines of Credit
In this time of growing financial crises, associations are increasingly considering loans/lines of credit in order to have sufficient cashflow in the event of budget shortfalls caused by increasing delinquencies or in order to pay for projects that cannot be funded through the operating budget alone but cannot be postponed.
Not All Approaches are “Created Equal” When Getting Rid of Old Discriminatory Covenants
One of the most important and valuable aspects of a property owners’ rights is that owner’s ability to market and sell their property and to do so free from the fear of “hidden” or outdated restrictions or claims which may have previously burdened their property. What to do when a person raises a claim of a 50-year old unrecorded and unused easement agreement between neighbors executed by way of a “gentleman’s handshake”?
Emergency Powers and COVID-19
PLEASE NOTE: THE COMMENTS IN THIS ARTICLE MAY REQUIRE MODIFICATION DUE TO THE FAST MOVING EVENTS IN REGARD TO THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK. NEW DIRECTIVES AND ORDERS ARE BEING ISSUED ON THE FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL LEVEL DAILY. PLEASE CONISDER THE MOST RECENTLY AVAILABLE INFORMATION WHEN REVIEWING THE BELOW ARTICLE.
No Time Limit to Record Amendments
Q After the unit owners in a condominium association vote to approve an amendment, is there a time limit or deadline by which the amendment must be recorded with the county? (M.A. via e-mail) A Chapter 718 of the Florida Statutes, known as the Florida Condominium Act, extensively regulates amendments to condominium documents. However, the Act does not contain a specific deadline for when properly adopted amendments to the condominium documents must be recorded.
Special Assessments in Condo
Special assessments happen. The unfortunate reality is that during the life of a condominium building some unexpected expenses are going to arise and the association must take steps to fulfill its obligations to the membership. If the operating budget cannot handle these expenses, and there is not a funded reserve account which can dray the cost, then it is likely that a special assessment will need to be levied. In Florida, there is a right way and a wrong way to levy special assessments.
HUD’s Guidance on Application of Fair Housing Act Standards to the Use of Criminal Records: Where Do We Stand?
Home A client recently came to me about amending the declaration of the homeowner’s association to prohibit certain specific violent felons, and, in particular, sexual predators from residing in the association. The client posed the question as to whether the proposed amendment would be discriminatory since they had heard that the use of criminal background checks was no longer allowed.
Golf Carts and Your Community
Golf Carts, in addition to the obvious use on the golf course, are increasingly being used for short-distance trips in communities as an alternative to the family car, for example, carrying children and pets from home to the club house or recreation center. Golf Carts share an Association’s common element roads with other motor vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians and animals, creating the potential for liability for an Association.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Chris
Contact Chris, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack