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Gaithersburg weighs city-run Common Ownership Communities program to resolve HOA disputes
Summary
City staff presented a mediation-first framework Feb. 9 proposing a city-managed Common Ownership Communities (GCOC) program to handle governance and procedural HOA disputes while clarifying limits on city authority, staffing needs and possible fee options; public commenters urged enforcement teeth and clearer jurisdictional rules.
Gaithersburg city staff on Feb. 9 presented an exploratory framework for a city-managed Common Ownership Communities program, proposing a mediation-first approach and a citizen-appointed commission to handle governance and procedural disputes in homeowner associations and condominium communities.
The presentation, led by Sebastian Andeon of Neighborhood Services, described the plan as an early, conceptual framework meant to solicit Mayor and City Council guidance rather than seek immediate ordinance or budget approval. "This presentation provides an overview of a conceptual framework for a city Managed Common Ownership Communities program," Sebastian said.
Why it matters: proponents said the county-level Office on Common Ownership Communities (CCOC) had left many homeowners without an effective remedy, and a municipal alternative could offer clearer jurisdiction, faster resolution and a local intake point. Public speakers recounted lengthy, costly…
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