Reply To: BBQ on Common Property conundrum

Just an update on the BBQ saga… My partner had his mediation session yesterday and I happened to be home. The committee decided to pay the strata manager to represent them at mediation, after she explicitly said the strata company does not represent the committee at mediation. None of the committee members attended.

Unfortunately Shane did not declare my presence so when the mediator realised I was there, a fair way into the conversation, he declared it a breach of confidentiality – how or why baffles me as I am his landlord, his partner, and part of the dispute… Anyway…  The decision was made to terminate the mediation. By that time it was clear that the problem will be solved at the AGM as my motions have been accepted for voting at the meeting.

I could hear the glee in the Strata Managers voice. Her behaviour was quite extraordinary and I’d like to know from you wise folk if this is normal? She was condescending, contemptuous, sarcastic and hostile. She ridiculed our desire for a nice place to sit outside – asking if we really need “kumbaya around the BBQ” – but wouldn’t listen to Shane’s answers. And she then tells me in a subsequent email that the majority of owners do not want a recreational area – no idea how she knows this. I’d like to respond but I’m simply too enraged.

I have formerly complained (again) to her boss but don’t expect much as I didn’t get a response last time. The AGM notice is going out next week and the AGM is towards the end of June.

I’ll be standing for the committee and this time I’ll be insisting on proper protocols – regular meetings, agenda, minutes , etc. It’s depressing and I’m tired. I don’t want to fight with my neighbours but I really resent the way they’ve handled this.

Any pointers on how to stick it up all of them????