Homeowner associations have a unique opportunity to reverse or moderate these attacks on Americas traditional values and liberties. As private organizations, they have the right and flexibility to decide how issues of faith expression are dealt with and avoid the nonsense of political correctness.

While HOAs cant enact rules and regulations that contradict the Bill of Rights, they do have some latitude on how these rights are played out. Free speech can be restricted on private property. One example that comes to mind is limiting personal signs in the common area. In other words, the fact that America enjoys free speech doesnt entitle a citizen to crash a private party to express it. So it is with signs. HOAs can control or restrict signs in the common area if thats what the members want.

When it comes to >

>. HOA clubhouses are usually made available for private use by members and residents. If a resident wants to host a poker party, a quilting club or High Mass, they are all legal activities in every state of the country and, as such, the HOA should not have a policy restricting the activity.

The HOA is not obligated to allow private use of the clubhouse but since most clubhouses are ra>

Restricting Outside Groups. The HOA may have a restriction that limits use to residents and their guests and preclude outside groups from using the facility if no resident is involved. If outside groups are not allowed, the ban needs to extend to all of them.

Limiting Access to Schedule. There may be limitations placed on requests to monopolize the clubhouse schedule for a set time each week.

Limited to Legal Purpose. Use activity can be limited to those that are lawful and do not disturb the community noise, smell, lighting, etc..

Charging a Fee. The HOA can invoke a reasonable fee for private use since use creates wear and tear on the facilities.

Christmas Ornaments. Another controversial topic that comes up is whether the HOA should allow Christmas ornaments to be displayed. There seems to be an impression that all ornaments should be forbidden. The real answer is "yes and no": Its really up to the members to decide and that decision only should impact the general common area. If decorating the common area with Christmas decorations is something most of the residents feel appropriate, so be it. HOAs are private property controlled by democratic vote. Not everyone will get their way.

Demonstrations of >

For more innovative homeowner association management strategies, subscribe to www.Regenesis.net.