🏡 The Power of Planning: Why Every Community Association Needs an Annual Plan

Running a community association is a lot like running a small business — success doesn’t happen by accident. It takes organization, foresight, and teamwork to keep everything on track. That’s where an annual plan comes in.

Think of it as your community’s roadmap for the year ahead — outlining what’s coming, who’s responsible, and when things should happen. A solid annual plan helps your board stay proactive rather than reactive and ensures that every decision connects back to your community’s long-term goals.

🌟 Why an Annual Plan Matters

Without a plan, it’s easy for good intentions to get lost in the day-to-day details. Here’s why taking the time to plan pays off:

✅ Prevents last-minute decisions: Know what’s coming before it becomes urgent.

💰 Improves budgeting accuracy: When you know which projects are on deck, your financial planning becomes smarter and more predictable.

🧭 Encourages accountability: Each goal has a timeline — and someone responsible for getting it done.

💬 Strengthens communication: Boards, managers, and homeowners all benefit from having clear expectations.

🏗️ Supports long-term stability: Each year’s goals should align with your reserve study, maintenance plan, and strategic vision.

🗓️ What Should Be on Your Annual Plan?

Every community will have its own priorities, but most annual plans include these key categories:

1. Administrative & Governance

• Annual meeting and election schedule

• Policy and procedure reviews

• Governing document updates

• Board orientation or training

• Strategic planning or reserve study discussions

2. Financial & Budgeting

• Budget development timeline

• Reserve study updates or site inspections

• Annual audit, tax filings, and financial reviews

• Contract renewals and RFP schedules

• Assessment collection reviews and policy check-ins

3. Maintenance & Operations

• Routine maintenance calendar (landscaping, irrigation, lighting, etc.)

• Capital improvement projects with target dates and costs

• Preventive maintenance (roofs, gutters, stormwater, etc.)

• Seasonal inspections and compliance checks

• Safety and permit renewals (fire systems, pools, signage)

4. Communication & Community Engagement

• Newsletter or e-blast schedule

• Community events calendar

• Homeowner satisfaction surveys

• Website and portal updates

5. Vendor & Contract Management

• Vendor performance reviews

• Insurance policy renewals

• Bidding or contract negotiation timeline

  
  

🔁 How Often Should It Be Reviewed?

Your annual plan should be a living document, not something you check once and forget.

• Annually: Conduct a full review at the start of each fiscal year.

• Quarterly: Check progress, adjust priorities, and track results.

• As Needed: Update mid-year for unexpected issues like weather events, vendor changes, or new legislation.

  
  

⚙️ How It Works in Practice

1. Start with your goals. What do you want to accomplish this year?

2. Break it down. Turn those goals into monthly or quarterly milestones.

3. Assign responsibility. Decide who owns each task — the board, the manager, or a committee.

4. Communicate and track. Use a shared calendar or project tracker to keep everyone on the same page.

5. Review and improve. At year-end, evaluate what worked and build on that for next year’s plan.

   
   

An annual plan isn’t just another checklist — it’s a strategic tool for smoother operations, smarter spending, and stronger community engagement.

Communities that plan ahead experience fewer surprises and greater stability. By taking time to set clear priorities, your board can stay focused on what matters most: protecting property values, enhancing quality of life, and building a stronger sense of community.

🧭 myStreet Tip:

At myStreet Community Management, we help boards build annual plans that turn goals into action. From financial forecasting to project planning, our team ensures your community starts each year with clarity and confidence.