Channel Resident Association

Communication #014: Frequently Asked Questions

Apr 09, 2009

Summary

?¨ Residents FAQ has been assembled and published to assist all residents


What You Need To Know

?¨ What is the difference between the Channel Resident Association, a condominium or home owners associations?


Condominium and Home owner associations are responsible for the governance and maintenance of their respective properties. The Channel District Association, being a civic association, is responsible for the civic health and well-being of the Channel District and concerns itself with both civic impacts and interests including education, recreational space, public spaces, streetscapes, transportation, police protection, taxation, special assessment, etc.



?¨ What is the difference between the Channel Resident Association and Special District(s) / Special Improvement District(s). What are the other governing bodies other then City, County or State impacting/taxing our neighborhood?



The Channel Resident Association is a civic association that mitigates impacts generated by Special Districts upon the neighborhood by partnering with City and County government. Special Districts, Special Improvement Districts, etc. are mandated at State level, of which the Channel District is impacted by multiple. In regards to Special Districts, the State of Florida defines a Special District as the following: means a local unit of special purpose, as opposed to general-purpose, government within a limited boundary, created by general law, special act, local ordinance, or by rule of the Governor and Cabinet. The special purpose or purposes of special districts are implemented by specialized functions and related prescribed powers. For the purpose of s. 196.199(1), special districts shall be treated as municipalities.




?¨ Who belongs to the Channel Resident Association?



All residents of Channel District, whether they own or rent, home or business is located within the defined boundaries of the Channel District, inclusive of all non-resident owners of property. All residents are automatically members of the Channel Resident Association.





?¨ Does it cost anything to belong to the Channel Resident Association?



At present there are no membership dues, but contributions (which are non-tax deductible) are always welcome.





?¨ How does the Channel Resident Association represent me?



The Channel Resident Association is a point of contact for government and neighborhoods, acting as a conduit for the neighborhood community on a multitude of issues of importance to Channel District and impact to its residents.



?¨ When does the Channel Resident Association meet?



Town Hall meetings are throughout the year, posted one year in advance, of which the calendar year is November 1 to October 31.



For 2008/2009 all Town Halls are being held at 6:30 PM at the Florida Aquarium- 701 Channelside Drive, the Classrooms.



Focus meetings are schedules as frequently as weekly and meet at various locals and times throughout the community.





?¨ My condominium association refused my variance request. Can I appeal my case to the Channel Resident Association?



No, the Channel District Association specifically prohibits the association from interfering with the governance of the individual condominium associations.





?¨ How do I get attention for an issue that I believe affects the Channel District community?



Speak to an active member or send an e-mail to the Channel Resident Association. All e-mails will be considered for publication. However, the Channel Resident Association Communication Committee reserves the right to refuse or edit letters, depending on content, expression, and length.



?¨ How can I become a delegate to City of Tampa or Hillsborough County civic organizations?



The Channel Resident Association appoints delegates and alternates to all civic organizations when formal representation has been requested. Let the association know you're interested in being a delegate.



?¨ How can I learn about the history of the Channel District?



Tampa Bay History Center provides information on the history of Tampa Bay, inclusive of the Channel District, as does the local library.





Action Required

?¨ If you have any additional FAQ you would like to have added, please contact the Communication Committee