Communities across the nation use neighborhood watch to prevent crime and build stronger relationships with law enforcement. HOA crime watch in Santa Clarita is not just about crime prevention. It is about knowing neighbors and improving the quality of life in the community. An important goal at neighborhood meetings is to learn more about each other so neighbors are available to help each other during difficult times.
Why Neighborhood Crime Watch Is Beneficial
Perhaps the greatest benefit to joining your crime watch with the HOA is financial. Every HOA will have financial accounts in order to collect dues and pay for community projects. Usually, HOAs are tax-exempt nonprofit group. As a subsidiary of the HOA, the neighborhood watch will also be tax-exempt. This means the group can do fundraising or apply for grants and not pay taxes on the income.
Use the HOA and neighborhood watch together to find a way to make people care. If there are issues with speeding, then educate parents on how to protect their children with speed bumps, additional stop signs, etc. An HOA may have more power to get speed bumps added by city council than an informal watch group. Although law enforcement might be limited in their actions, community members can take an active role. Educate community members on what they can do within the legal limits. Because the HOA is not a government entity, they can get things done more quickly and address the “quality of life” issues important to the entire community.
How Do I Start My Own Neighborhood Watch?
If your community has an HOA, consider using it as a means to increase interest. Use meetings to explain the purpose and goals of a neighborhood crime watch and once you have a good base of involved neighbors, start holding your own meetings. Identify the purposes and seek input and assistance from local law enforcement. Choose neighbors as leaders to get more residents involved. Report your activities to the HOA board and consider sending a liaison to report.
Most controversies start over use of funds and actual law enforcement vs. HOA funded law enforcement, but it all boils down to bi-laws. We cannot stress that word enough – BI-LAWS. Make sure you carefully read your HOA bi-laws to know the specific regulation laid out for your neighborhood.
National Property Management Group has extensive experience managing HOAs. Our professional staff is knowledgeable about HOA management in Southern California, serving Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Valencia, and the surrounding areas. We can manage your HOA properties for you so you have less to stress about. We provide innovative property management solutions that outshine our competitors. There is no property too large or too small that we cannot service.
National Property Management Group
25115 Avenue Stanford A300
Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 295-5966
www.npmgonline.com