An "ax to grind."

This common American phrase means "a private or selfish motive behind a request or action - something that is not obvious at first glance". The phrase is attributed to Benjamin Franklin. The story goes that a man needed an ax sharpened, pretended to young Franklin that he didn't know how a grindstone worked and asked Ben to show him. Many turns of the handle later Franklin was weary, the ax was beautifully sharp and the man, having gained his objective, jeered at Franklin for having been hoodwinked. Ben learned a lesson in human cruelty that he memorialized in the phrase.

Ax grinding continues today in many homeowner associations. Residents and board members play out hidden agendas that are self serving and contrary to the interests of the community. A resident may manipulate the landscaper to perform special bush pruning without payment. Someone may join the board with the express intention of getting his unit painted first. Whatever it is, the motive is selfish and undermines trust.

Ax grinding also occurs when people feel that they are not getting what they paid for. When people feel cheated, some will take covert action.

Are there ways for the Board to improve maintenance, reduce complaints and discourage ax grinders? Proactive maintenance and planning is the key.

One of the strengths of a community association is the economies gained by sharing services and amenities. Pools, clubhouses, parks, ponds and other expensive amenities become a reality for a community when supporting such things as an individual would not be possible. A concession must be made for this system work: The community's welfare must be placed above the individual's.

A good leader must be alert to ax grinding. If allowed to continue, it will promote antagonism and divisiveness. Realize that there are various motivations for it. It will happen in every homeowner association at some time or another. Be vigilant, sensitive and grind it to a halt.

For more information on this subject, see www.Regenesis.net.

Published: October 31, 2001

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Richard Thompson owns Regenesis, a management consulting company that specializes in condominium and homeowner associations. He is a nationally recognized expert on HOA management issues. Regenesis publishes The Regenesis Report, a monthly newsletter for HOA boards, developers and managers. To subscribe, go to Regenesis.net. He can be contacted by email at .