Community associations typically have three types of meetings: board meetings, annual owner meetings, and special owner meetings. The notice requirements, quorum provisions, and subject matter are very different for each type of meeting. The most common reason for a special owner meeting is for the removal of directors. Other reasons include approval of special assessments and amending the governing documents. Because the meetings are "owner" meetings, all owners have the right to participate, make motions, and vote.
The notice requirements for special owner meetings are typically found in the association's bylaws. Notice is commonly required no less than 10 days and no more than 50 days prior to the meeting. The notice of a special owner meeting must contain a description of the business to be conducted. For example, if the meeting is to remove a director, the notice must specifically state: "The purpose of this meeting is to consider and vote upon the removal of director John Doe." The special meeting is strictly limited to the business contained in the notice.
Owners may call a special meeting by submitting a petition signed by enough owners required to call the meeting. Once the petition is submitted, the board should verify the names and ownership of each person who signed the petition. Assuming the petition contains the required number of signatures, the board has a duty to call and hold the special meeting.
Here is a chart showing who may call special owner meetings:
| Oregon Condo & HOAs | Washington HOAS | Washington Condos |
|---|---|---|
|
1. President of the association; 2. Majority of the board of directors; or 3. 30% of the owners (unless different req. is in documents) |
1. President of the association; 2. A majority of the board of directors; or 3. 10% of the owners |
1. President of the Association; 2. A majority of the board of directors; or 3. 20% of the owners (or lesser percentage if specified in the governing documents) |
|
ORS 94.650 |
RCW 64.38.035 |
RCW 64.34.332 |