No, the Community Association is a volunteer organization dependent upon sponsorship and fundraising to operate. The Residents Association is a not for profit company incorporated, in New Brighton's case, under the Companies Act, and which has mandatory membership of all property owners and an assured source of revenue to fund its operations. The community association is involved in community matters (Soccer Registration and other community run programs, issues involving city officials, etc.), whereas the Residents Association's mandate revolves around providing the necessary resources to maintain New Brighton’s exclusive facilities for the enjoyment of all New Brighton residents.
2. Do all New Brighton residents currently pay a Residents Association fee?
Yes, all residents and property owners in New Brighton have their title encumbered with the New Brighton Residents Association Encumbrance.
3. Who collects the Residents Association fee?
The Residents Association fees are collected by the New Brighton Residents Association.
4. How often are the Residents Association fees collected?
Members of the New Brighton Residents Association are invoiced annually April 1st.
5. Where is the money collected from the Residents Association spent?
The funds are spent to administer and operate the amenities of the New Brighton Residents Association, including the landscaping, maintaining open space in the community etc. Audited financial Statements are sent to every Member prior to the Annual General Meeting.
6. What are the benefits to the residents of New Brighton for paying the Residents Association fees?
Residents benefit, by having in their community, certain amenities and assets which, because of their unique nature, could not otherwise be provided, as the City would not normally accept responsibility for their maintenance. Other benefits include enhanced maintenance of City parks and Boulevards, and access to the www.newbrighton-connect.com community intranet.
7. How is the Residents Association governed?
The NBRA is governed via bylaws and a Board of Directors. At present, the Board consists of three (3) Carma members and three (3) members elected to represent the New Brighton Residents Association. The number of Board members is determined annually at the AGM.
8. Who elects the representatives for the Residents Association and when does that occur?
The Members of the association elect their Board of Directors annually at the Annual General Meeting. Carma has retained the right to appoint a certain number of Directors to the Residents Association, as it is financially responsible for the viability and operation of the Residents Association until it is turned over to the residents.
9. Is there a relationship between the Residents Association and the municipal officials?
Not formally, although communications with both elected officials and administration does occur.
10. Are the residents of New Brighton able to guide the Residents Association in matters important to the residents?
The roles of the Residents Association are limited to matters affecting the operation of the association. Members can elect or defeat any Member standing for a Residents Association Directorship, and in that way guide the direction of the Association. Ultimately, the Association will be run entirely by the residents.
11. How does a member of the New Brighton Residents Association become more involved in the Residents Association?
Attending the Annual General Meeting is usually the best means; letting Directors know of your interest in matters relating to the Association is another. Click here to go directly to the Board of Directors' Forum.
12. How long will Carma be involved with the NBRA?
Carma maintains a financial stake in the successful operation of the NBRA, both in terms of an operating loan that it has provided to the NBRA and also from the standpoint of providing a well run Association and amenities, which will reflect on the overall success of the New Brighton community. As such, Carma will continue to be involved with the NBRA until six months after the last lots are sold within New Brighton or until all funds owing to Carma have been repaid; whichever is the later. Carma can also elect to turn the facility operation over to the NBRA at an earlier date.
13. How do you become a member of the NBRA?
Carma registers an Encumbrance on each lot ensuring that each homeowner automatically becomes a member of the NBRA. Upon closing of a home purchase in New Brighton, Carma requests that each homeowner sign a copy of the New Brighton Residents Association Brochure to acknowledge the provisions of the New Brighton Amenities Agreement and the Articles of Association of New Brighton Residents Association.
14. Who should residents contact for more information?
New Brighton Residents Association
2 New Brighton Drive SE
Calgary, AB T2Z 4B2
Phone Number: (403) 781-6613
Fax Number: (403) 781-6611
gm.newbrighton@shaw.ca