Insights from local experts and executives The Region this issue: [44] Massachusetts [46] Maine [48] New Hampshire [50] Rhode Island MASSACHUSETTS Lessons from a Classic Film Quotes for Condo Boards [By Dean T. Lennon, Esq.] The Godfather and serving on a condo board seemingly have nothing to do with one another. But as it turns out, there is some sage advice for board members to be found in Mario Puzo's classic story. Let's take a look at some memorable quotes and what they say about serving on a condo board. " Never tell anybody outside the family what you're thinking again. " - Don Corleone Board decisions should stay between board members and the property manager. If a board votes 4-1 on a particular issue, the dissenting trustee should not disclose board deliberations to unit owners because they think the board made a mistake or that they are the only sane one of the bunch. Likewise, issues such as owner delinquencies and requests for reasonable accommodations must be kept solely within the board due to the privacy rights of the affected residents. " Fredo, you're my older brother, and I love you. But don't ever take sides with anyone against the family again. Ever. " - Michael Corleone Similar to the above, if a board votes in favor of taking a particular action, those board members who voted against it should not try to rally the community against the majority. The " losing " faction for that particular vote shouldn't defame the " winning " faction just because the two sides disagree. Ultimately the majority rules and all sides must go back to working together again. And let me add that disagreement is a good thing so long as it stays in-house amongst board members. Disagreement means that all angles to an issue are being considered and trustees' opinions are being challenged. That is how good decisions get made! 44 CONDOMEDIA September 2022