Florida Community Association Manager Practice Exam

What are some of the powers granted to a community association as per FS 617?

1. Only managing member relations

2. Engaging in legal disputes only

3. Conducting business and managing community affairs

4. Only acquiring new properties

The correct answer is: Conducting business and managing community affairs

The correct choice highlights a fundamental aspect of community associations under Florida Statutes, specifically Chapter 617, which governs not-for-profit corporations, including many community associations. This chapter grants community associations certain powers that are essential for their operation and governance. One of the primary powers is the ability to conduct business and manage community affairs, which encompasses a wide variety of functions. These responsibilities include the maintenance of common areas, financial management, organizing community events, and ensuring compliance with community governing documents and local ordinances. This broad mandate allows associations to effectively serve the interests of their members and maintain the integrity and quality of life within the community. In contrast, focusing solely on managing member relations, engaging in legal disputes only, or acquiring new properties would severely limit the association's capacity to function effectively. While member relations, legal matters, and property acquisition can be part of a community association's activities, they do not encompass the full range of powers necessary for comprehensive management and governance of the community. Thus, the ability to conduct business and manage community affairs encapsulates the critical scope of authority that community associations need to fulfill their roles.