Homeowner associations have security issues from time to time like car break-ins. And there is an occasional issue with a violent resident. Particularly after a security "event", discussions ensue about the need for the HOA to beef up security with things like better gates, better fences and security cameras.

The board is in a Catch 22 (no win situation) when it comes to some security issues. In the case of the violent resident, fail to inform the other residents about him and he injures someone, the board is held responsible. Inform residents of the violent resident who subsequently files suit against the HOA for defamation of character and, guess what?... the board is held responsible.

In the case of security cameras, there are several questions to discuss and answer:

• Who is going to service the cameras to make sure they are functioning properly?
• Who is going to monitor the cameras and sound the alert if something improper is occurring?
• How many cameras should there be and where should they be located?
• Do security cameras actually stop criminal activity?
• Is the HOA responsible for law enforcement at all?

Installing video surveillance cameras is an uncertain method for controlling crime. Security is more perception than reality. Many of the surveillance cameras you see with the blinking red lights are just that...fake cameras with blinking red lights. Using the same theory, inexpensive printed signs that read "24 Hour Surveillance" can be just as effective as cameras (assuming that the bad guys can read).

Paying the cost of security like guards and cameras should be carefully considered. These measures are often a reactive measure after the fact. Once the hysteria passes, the homeowners' desire to fund the ongoing costs is rarely there.

Most security problems should be handled by local law enforcement. The HOA is rarely prepared to deal with real crime in an effective way. Defer to the pros. Even if they are less than perfect, they are trained and paid to do the job. On the proactive side, the HOA can and should form a committee and residents provided information about Neighborhood Watch and other self help security programs from time to time as reminders.

The board can also have local law enforcement attend a board meeting to discuss the issues and solutions. This is particularly important since it will be recorded in the minutes that law enforcement was formally put on notice of problems. Obviously, if law enforcement suggests corrective measures the HOA can and should take to increase security (like better lighting, fencing, reducing landscape cover, etc.), the board needs to act.

While measures like cameras can provide a measure of security relief, in the final analysis, the best return on the security buck is to remind residents periodically about being vigilant.

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