TEN REASONS WHY NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS ARE IMPORTANT

1.     You’ll be organized before a crisis occurs, thus better able to defeat it.  Neighbors will be more successful at handling crime waves, zoning issues and traffic problems if they are organized before they happen.

2.     Your crime rate will fall.  Neighborhood associations can hire private security patrols, host meetings that feature crime prevention tips, establish Neighborhood Watch groups, and inform neighbors on how to be prepared for crimes.  Plus, neighbors who know each other will look out for each other.

3.     The physical appearance of the neighborhood will improve.  Neighborhood associations can form beatification committees to keep up the appearance of the neighborhood.  They can also notify the proper authorities on related issues, i.e., tree planting/trimming, trash pick-up, or code violations.  Organized neighborhoods also have a lower incidence of litter.

4.     You will protect your property values.  Strong neighborhood associations insure that the area remains or become a great place to live.

5.     Neighborhoods with a common purpose are better able to participate in what happens in their area.  Good neighborhood associations learn how to work with developers so that new projects are designed not only to be profitable, but are attractive and consistent with the area.

6.     Neighborhood associations are clearinghouses of information.  Deed restrictions, tree trimming, speeders, dilapidated housing…neighbors have numerous questions.  An association can be a resource that helps you figure out how best to respond.

7.     By forming an association, you will form a stronger local community.

8.     You will get to know your neighbors.  All of us long for the days of being comfortable enough to borrow a cup of sugar from our neighbors.  It’s up to each of us to bring back this culture.

9.     You will have the satisfaction of knowing you are building a healthy community.

10. You will be better able to communicate with your elected officials and with city government.  Having a recognized neighborhood association will give you a voice and a means to advocate for your position.  When neighbors face a problem as a group, they can accomplish more.