July/August 2016 - StarChapter · July/August 2016. 2 ulyAugust 2016 FMO NewsFMO News2 Acceptance...
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The Official Publication of the Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, Inc. news FMO July/August 2016
Transcript of July/August 2016 - StarChapter · July/August 2016. 2 ulyAugust 2016 FMO NewsFMO News2 Acceptance...
IFMO News
The Official Publication of the Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, Inc.
news FMO July/August 2016
July/August 20162
FMO News 2FMO News
Ac cep tance of ad ver tis ing by the FMO News does not con stitute an en dorse ment by the FMO. A Preferred Pro vid er logo signifies a special FMO benefit the or ga ni za tion has con tract ed with the com pa ny.
Volume 53, Number 4
The Federation of Manufactured Home Owners (FMO) News is the official publication of the Federation of Manufactured Home Own ers of Flor i da, Inc.—a state-wide or ga ni za tion—and is in no way affiliated with or subsidized by any mobile home manufac turer, deal er, park or in dus try association.
The FMO News (ISSN 0274-9882; USPS 356-320) is pub-lished bi-monthly by the Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Flor i da, Inc., 4020 Portsmouth Road, Largo, FL 33771-3318; phone: (727) 530-7539. FMO Website: www.fmo1.org. Periodicals Post age Paid at Largo, FL, and at ad di tion al mail ing of fic es. POSTMASTER: Please send change of address notices to FMO News, P.O. Box 5350, Largo, FL 33779-5350. Opin ions ex pressed in articles are not nec es sari ly those of the FMO or its publisher. Mem ber-ship in the Federation of Manufactured Home Own ers of Flor i da, Inc., is $25 (U.S.) an nu al ly or $65 (U.S.) for a three-year membership and in cludes the FMO News sub scrip tion (one copy per home). Forty cents of every membership is al lo cat ed to the pub lish ing of the FMO News. Back is sues of the FMO News can be obtained for $1.88 per issue, if available, by writing to the above address. ©2014 Federation of Manufactured Home Own ers of Florida, Inc.
Official publication of the Fed er a tion of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida
FMO NEWS
The Federation of Manufactured Home Owners, Inc.
Joyce Fish(727) 530-7539
EdITOrIAl
Publisher
AdvErTIsIng sAlEsAccount Executive
Executive DirectorJane Clapp
Member ServicesManager
Beth [email protected]
Account ExecutiveJoyce Fish
Federation of Manufactured HomeOwners of Florida
4020 Portsmouth Rd., Largo, FL 33771
Phone: (727) 530-7539Fax: (727) 535-9427
Website: www.fmo1.org
FMO Administrative Staff
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3FMO News
BOARD ROOM
John P. SalvucciFMO President
Summer is not a time to get too relaxed. This is storm season and already we have had a small taste of what can happen. So be prepared and have an emergency plan. Along those lines, when was the last time you had your tie-downs checked? An inspection every five years would be a good plan. In the wet Florida weather, tie-downs have a ten-dency to corrode and rust and no longer offer the protection they should. Also, when was the last time your park updated its’ “Tie-down Application” with Tallahassee Community College? The 60% needed to make application may have changed and needs updating. Has the skirting changed, which could make you eligible or possibly ineligible? Get out your application and look it over. Call Tallahassee Community College at 850-201-8025 and update your application. It may be a good idea to have a committee within your HOA that would take on this responsibility. If your neighbors go north for the summer, do you know how to con-tact them in an emergency?
The Legislative Committee is meeting and drawing up our legislative package for 2017. We have received many suggestions from our mem-bership and for that we thank you. Do remember, however, that it is much more difficult to pass a bill than it is to stop a bill. We must be realistic in what we ask for.
Another program that needs your support is the Consolidated Legal Fund. With each passing week we see more HOAs getting involved and soon we will be able to take action to support our HOAs on a state-wide level. Don’t know what the CLF is? Go to our website and watch the power point program and arrange for a speaker to come to your HOA meeting to give your residents further infor-mation.
Membership is critical to the FMO. It is our only source of revenue. Without members, FMO would not exist, and without the FMO you will
lose a major voice in the public arena. Please renew your membership and ask your neighbors to join. It is through this unity that we gain strength. If you can volunteer a few hours a month, we can use you. Call Jane Clapp at the Largo office and inform her of areas you would be willing to assist in.
The HOA Certification Classes will be up and running this fall, with the first one to be held in November. There will be about a half dozen in all; watch for the one in your area. They will also be noted on the website.
As I stated in the last issue of the FMOnews, we need to set in motion the structure for future lead-ership and make it possible for the maximum num-ber of candidates to be available to choose from. At the June Board of directors meeting, I announced that I will be stepping down as your president as of 1 September, due to family and health issues. I have enjoyed serving you and the FMO and now it is time for new leadership.
John P. SalvucciFMO President
Table Of ContentsBoard Room ..............................................3Capitol Beat...............................................5 Tie-Down Program....................................8Legal Ease................................................10Team DBPR..............................................14FLAROC News..........................................18Member Services.....................................219 X 10 Club..............................................22News From the Field...............................24FMO Website Instructions.......................27FMO Resource Material Form..................30
July/August 20164
PRESIDENTJohn Salvucci(407) [email protected]
FMO CONTACTS VICE PRESIDENTLarry North(941) [email protected]
DIRECTOR AT LARGEJerry Durham(941) [email protected]
DIRECTOR AT LARGERichard Twort(386) [email protected]
SECTION I - Districts 2 & 10James Hamilton(727) [email protected]
DISTRICT 2 - PinellasJohn Hisiro - President(724) [email protected]
DISTRICT 10 - HillsboroughSusan Ambrose-President(813) [email protected]
SECTION II - Districts 5, 7, 8 DISTRICT 5 - Manatee DISTRICT 7-Charlotte, DISTRICT 8 - SarasotaJoan Bartlett Lee, Collier, Hendry(941) 739-3989 John Bowman - President [email protected] (708) 214-8142 [email protected]
SECTION III - Districts 14 & 16Fred [email protected](407) 572-4591
DISTRICT 14 - Volusia, Flagler, Duval,St Johns, Santa RosaSam Rudland - President(877) [email protected]
DISTRICT 16 - Seminole, Orange, OsceolaBarry Hirshfield - President(386) [email protected]
SECTION IV- Districts 12 & 12A DISTRICT 12 - Broward, Dade, MonroeDISTRICT 12A Palm BeachJohn St. Martin - President(561) [email protected]
SECTION V - Districts 1 & 6Glenn Haney(863) [email protected]
DISTRICT 1 - PolkDavid Carr - President(863) [email protected]
DISTRICT 6 - DeSoto, Glades, Hardee,Highlands
SECTION VI - Districts 3 & 13James Mull(352) [email protected]
DISTRICT 3 - LakeJohn Petrella - President(352) [email protected]
DISTRICT 13 - Marion, Alachua, PutnamAlice Agnello - President(352) [email protected]
SECTION VII - Districts 4 & 9Robert Dittmar(772) [email protected]
DISTRICT 4 - Indian River, St Lucie, Okeechobee, MartinPatti Timm - President(772) [email protected]
DISTRICT 9 - BrevardRon Guarnieri - President(321) [email protected]
SECTION IX - Districts 11 & 17 DISTRICT 11 -Pasco (W of US 41), HernandoDenise Kingsbury - President(727) [email protected]
DISTRICT 17- Pasco (E of US 41), Sumter, Citrus
5FMO News
Greetings all! I hope you’re having an easy summer and for those of you traveling to visit friends and family, please be safe! With the hot Florida sun bearing down on us, it may be difficult to realize the fall elections are right around the corner. The Florida Primary is August 30 and the General Election is November 8. You may also vote by mail by calling your county Supervisor of Elections and requesting absentee ballots.
It is always important to support incumbents who have helped us protect the lifestyle you enjoy. Please remember this support is based on the last two years as well as assistance in previous years. Several of our advocates are in races, in the PRIMARY and/or the GENERAL. Please support them between now and then. Senator Jack Latvala, Clearwater, and Representative Chris Latvala, Clearwater, are each on the General Election ballot. Representative Danny Burgess, Zephyrhills, was elected with-out opposition. Representative Ritch Workman, Melbourne, and Representative Ray Pilon, Sarasota, each have a Senate Primary race and they have each been very helpful with mobile home issues.
Many Senators and Representatives have been elected automatically inasmuch as they have no opposition and BIG congratulations are in order. Twelve, (12), Senators and Thirty, (30), Representatives are elected with-out a Primary or General Election. Please use the first two lists below of the Senators and Representatives who are returning to Tallahassee to start your outreach and communications now. Please invite them into your parks or regional meetings to hear from you. Tell them about your park/community lifestyle. And, PLEASE, take the time to explain the challenges and inequities you experience.
By FMO Legislative Counsel Nancy Black Stewart
CAPITOL BEATYour News from Tallahassee
FMO FRIENDS…Past, Present, and Future
July/August 20166
FLORIDA SENATORS ELECTED without Opposition
District 2 Senator-Elect George Gainer Panama CityDistrict 4 Senator Aaron Bean Fernandia BeachDistrict 5 Senator Rob Bradley Fleming IslandDistrict 6 Senator Audrey Gibson JacksonvilleDistrict 9 Senator David Simmons Altamonte SpringsDistrict 10 Senator Wilton Simpson Dade CityDistrict 20 Senator Tom Lee Brandon District 21 Senator Bill Galvano BradentonDistrict 26 Senator Denise Grimsley SebringDistrict 32 Senator-Elect Lauren Book PlantationDistrict 33 Senator-Elect Perry Thurston, Jr. LauderhillDistrict 35 Senator Oscar Braynon Miami Gardens
FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ELECTED without Opposition
District 7 Representative Halsey Beshears MonticelloDistrict 17 Representative Cyndi Stevenson St. JohnsDistrict 20 Representative Clovis Watson AlachuaDistrict 32 Representative Larry Metz YalahaDistrict 33 Representative-Elect Don Hahnfeldt The VillagesDistrict 34 Representative-Elect Ralph Massullo LecantoDistrict 37 Representative Richard Corcoran Land O’LakesDistrict 38 Representative Danny Burgess ZephyrhillsDistrict 44 Representative Eric Eisnaugle WindermereDistrict 55 Representative Cary Pigman Avon ParkDistrict 57 Representative Jake Raburn LithiaDistrict 62 Representative Janet Cruz Tampa District 64 Representative J.W. Grant TampaDistrict 71 Representative Jim Boyd BradentonDistrict 75 Representative-Elect Michael Grant VeniceDistrict 77 Representative Dane Eagle Cape CoralDistrict 78 Representative Heather Fitzenhagen Ft. MyersDistrict 81 Representative-Elect Joe Abruzzo Boynton BeachDistrict 84 Representative Larry Lee Port St. LucieDistrict 89 Representative Bill Hager Boca RatonDistrict 94 Representative Bobby DuBose Ft. LauderdaleDistrict 96 Representative Kristin Jacobs Coconut CreekDistrict 97 Representative Jared Moskowitz Coral SpringsDistrict 98 Representative Katie Edwards PlantationDistrict 99 Representative Evan Jenne Ft. LauderdaleDistrict 100 Representative Joe Geller AventuraDistrict 101 Representative Shervin Jones HollywoodDistrict 102 Representative Sharon Pritchett MiamiDistrict 109 Representative Cynthia Stafford MiamiDistrict 117 Representative Kionne McGhee Miami
7FMO News
Some of our FMO Friends could use your help and below you will find some recommendations. They have helped us and now it’s our turn. In the Senate Primary races we may have several of our Friends running against each other so vote your preference. The Florida Primary is August 30. Please invite candidates into your parks or regional meetings to hear from you. Tell them about your park/community lifestyle. You can also volunteer in their campaigns. That is invaluable to them and you have the opportunity to get to know them better. Often a former legislator or staffer runs so many are included here because we know where they stand on our issues.
FLORIDA SENATE PRIMARY Races
District 1 Representative Doug Broxson Gulf BreezeDistrict 11 Representative Randolph Bracy Ocoee District 12 Representative Dennis Baxley OcalaDistrict 15 Representative Victor Torres OrlandoDistrict 17 Representative Ritch Workman MelbourneDistrict 23 Representative Ray Pilon SarasotaDistrict 27 Senator Lizbeth Benacquisto Ft. MyersDistrict 28 Representative Kathleen Passidomo NaplesDistrict 29 Representative Kevin Rader Boca RatonDistrict 30 Representative Bobby Powell W. Palm BeachDistrict 31 Senator Jeff Clemons Lake WorthDistrict 38 Representative Daphne Campbell MiamiDistrict 40 Senator Dwight Bullard Miami
FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PRIMARY Races
District 5 Representative Brad Drake DeFuniak Springs District 8 Representative Ramon Alexander TallahasseeDistrict 9 Former Representative Loranne Ausley TallahasseeDistrict 10 Representative Elizabeth Porter Lake CityDistrict 12 Former Representative Stan Jordan JacksonvilleDistrict 14 Former Representative Terry Fields JacksonvilleDistrict 16 Former Representative Dick Kravitz JacksonvilleDistrict 19 Mrs. Katherine Van Zant PalatkaDistrict 22 Representative Charlie Stone OcalaDistrict 31 Representative Jennifer Sullivan Mt. DoraDistrict 43 Representative Ricardo Rangel KissimmeeDistrict 46 Representative Bruce Antone* OrlandoDistrict 50 Representative Rene Plasencia OrlandoDistrict 51 Representative Tom Goodson TitusvilleDistrict 85 Mr. Andrew Watt Palm Bch GardensDistrict 87 Representative Dave Kerner Palm SpringsDistrict 91 Former Representative Kelly Skidmore Boca RatonDistrict 107 Representative Barbara Watson Miami GardensDistrict 113 Representative David Richardson Miami BeachDistrict 118 Former Representative David Rivera Miami
I realize this is a lot to take in. Now is the time to tell your message and develop relationships! And, most importantly, PLEASE VOTE!!
July/August 20168
TIE- DOWN PROGRAM The State of Florida has allocated grant money through a contract with Tallahassee Community College to implement the Manufactured Home Tie-Down Enhancement Program. This program involves the enhancement of the tie-down and anchoring system of your home. The program does not intend to bring existing mobile homes up to code but to make the home as wind resistant as funding, physical characteristics and condition of premises permit. Please note: Each home worked on may receive differing quantities of new equipment depending on size, condition and physical characteristics. This program is at NO COST to you. Skirting removal and re-installation on eligible homes is now being offered with the Program. All fees paid to the contractor are paid directly by Tallahassee Community College through a grant from the state. The additional tie-down and anchoring systems could help minimize damage to the mobile home arising from windstorms, tornadoes or hurricanes. Eligibility to receive inspections and tie-down services is limited to the following:
1. A 60% mandatory participation rate is required and each manufactured home must be
located within the boundaries of the mobile home community. 2. The manufactured home must be built and installed prior to September 1999. 3. The minimum height requirement for the manufactured home shall be at least 15”
inches from the ground to the sidewall of the home. 4. The homeowner must properly complete and sign the AUTHORIZATION-TO-
PROCEED FORM. 5. Skirting removal and re-installation on eligible homes is included in the Program. All
skirting must be easily removable and able to be re-installed with minimal effort. Repair or replacement of any skirting will be the sole responsibility of the homeowner. Please note: Windstorm Mitigation Inc. reserves the right not to remove and re-install any skirting which does not meet Program requirements. Tallahassee Community College and the State of Florida are not responsible for the removal and re-installtion of the skirting.
6. The homeowner shall be responsible for the preparing and cleanup of the home site for the enhancement project. Preparation may include removal and replacement of shrubbery, furniture under carports and within screen rooms, etc.
7. To nominate your community for this program please send a letter of interest stating the name, address of your community along with contact information to:
Tallahassee Community College Attn: Darrell Miller 444 Appleyard Drive
Tallahassee, Florida 32304-2895 [email protected]
9FMO News
2015-2016 Tie-Down Enhancement Program
Community Interest Verification Date: _______________ Community: ___________________________ Contact: _______________________ Address: ______________________________ County: _______________________ Telephone: ____________________________ Email: ___________________________ Please consider this a letter of interest for the Tie-Down Enhancement Program, Here are the answers to the following questions.
1. Yes or No - Is your Community interested in qualifying for the Tie-Down Enhancement Program? If yes, continue with questions.
2. Yes or No - If chosen to participate, will the owner(s) of the community allow the
Program access to the property? 3. Yes or No – Does your Community/HOA have the ability to organize and acquire
the 60% of eligible homes needed to participate in the Program? 4. How many homes are in your Community? ______________
5. How many homes in the Community are vacant, up for sale or not
occupied?________
6. What year was your Community established? ____________
7. What percentage of homes were installed before 1999? _____________% 8. What is the approximate height from the ground to the bottom of home
(sidewall)? _________ Please measure 9. What type of skirting is on the homes? Vinyl Stack block Metal slats Mortared block Lattice Vinyl Siding to ground 10. Yes or No - Is the skirting easily removable?
July/August 201610
rentals wItH CHIldren In 55+ CoMMunItyI live in a 55 plus adult community in Kissimmee, Fl. The owner has been allowing rentals to move into the park with children, which the on site manager/resident says is false but they are here & my HOA says their hands are tied because management won’t allow them any access or information on the new tenants. Is there anything that can be done about this situation? We all know the children are here & so does management but he’s look-ing the other way.
ANSWER: Both the Federal and Florida Fair Housing Acts provide that it is unlawful to refuse to sell or rent, or otherwise make unavailable, a dwelling to any person because of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, religion, or familial status. Familial status is established when a person under 18 years of age is living with a parent, or person having custody thereof.
However, both Acts including Florida’s Sections 760.29 through 760.37, F.S., provide
exceptions to the above prohibitions and specifically provide in Section 760.29(4)(a), F.S., that the prohibitions of the act regarding “familial status” do not apply with respect to housing for older persons if at least 80% of the occupied lots are occupied by at least one person 55 years of age or older. Please note the following: 1.The term “Housing for Older Persons” means persons 55 years of age or older. 2. Ownership of the lot or mobile home is irrelevant concerning Housing for Older Persons, i.e. the lot must be occupied by at least one person 55 years of age or older. 3. It is important to understand that although you must have 80% of the lots occu-pied by a person 55 years of age or older, the remaining 20% of lots may be occupied by persons under 55 years of age, including “–some small numbers of families with chil-dren–”, surviving spouses or heirs of a senior resident. 4. The Park must publish and adhere to the policies and procedures that demon-
LEGAL By Lee Jay Colling, FMO Legal Counsel
HAVE A LEGAL QUESTION?You can submit a question for FMO's Legal Counsel's consideration in one of the following ways:Email: [email protected]: (727) 535-9427Mail: FMO Office, 4020 Portsmouth Rd., Largo 33771
Because the FMO News is a bi-monthly magazine, it will take at least 2 1/2 months to have questions answered and published in the magazine.
Deadline for September/October 2016 issue is August 1, 2016.
Lee Jay Colling
11FMO News
strate the intent required by the Fair Housing Act, including: a) governing documents must show intent to be a “55 & Over” community; b) governing documents need to provide a prohibition against the occupancy by per-sons 18 years of age or younger for at least 80% of the lots; c) Park Owner must com-ply with the requirements for verification of age compliance by completing age veri-fication surveys of the residents in the Park every two years (See Section 760.29(4)(e), Florida Statutes); d) Registration by the Park Owner registering the Park as a “55 & Over” Community with the Florida Commission on Human Relations. In addition, the results of the Park Owner’s biennial age verification survey must be available for inspection by the Home Owners upon reasonable notice and request.
In specific response to your question, I would advise as follows: 1. You should request in writing infor-mation from the Park Owner regarding the required biennial age survey, and request inspection of the survey. 2. As long as at least 80% of the lots in the Park are occupied by at least one person 55 and over, it is legally acceptable for the Park Owner to allow small number of families in the remaining 20% of the lots in the Park, without in any way endangering the loss of the “55 & Over” exception.
The subject of “55 & Over” is admittedly complex. To facilitate understanding of this subject, I have prepared a comprehensive memorandum dealing with Housing for Older Persons, which may be obtained by email at [email protected].
aMenItIes not guaranteed For use?Our prospectus lists a clubhouse, auditorium, pool, billiard tables, etc., as being available to the residents. Further on it says: “The owner reserves the right from time to time to alter or change any of such facilities or property by the removal, relocation or alteration of existing facili-ties and property or the construction of new facilities”. No assurance is given that any of the foregoing facilities or property will remain available for the residents use for any specified period after the filing date.”
I thought that by listing the facilities, the owner was both advertising them as part of your rental deal and guaranteeing their avail-ability.
ANSWER: The lot rental amount that you pay each month is the total financial obligation to the Park Owner for the existing services and facilities provided by the Park Owner (Section 723.003(6), F.S.).
Your Park’s Prospectus and the lease attached thereto are provided to you for your protection and for the purpose of disclosing the representations of the Park Owner concerning the operation of the Park (Section 723.011(3), F.S.). In addition, your Prospectus contains information regard-ing your legal rights and obligations, and must contain a description of the recreation-al and other common facilities that can be used by the Home Owners, which would include swimming pools, and all other facili-ties and permanent improvements (Section 723.012(5), F.S.).
In your case, the Park Owner has disclosed all of the facilities that are currently available,
July/August 201612
and the “cost” of these facilities is included in your current lot rental amount.
I understand that your concern is that the Prospectus disclosures contain language that the Park Owner may alter, change, remove, or replace these facilities. It is my opinion that the Park Owner has the right to reserve the ability to make changes to the Park’s facilities. As Parks age, so do facilities, and Park Owners are presently experiencing the need for repairs and replacements to facilities such as pools and clubhouses.
However, in the event the Park Owner should completely remove a service, or facility, it is my opinion that this would be a “reduction in service” governed by Section 723.037, F.S., that would require a 90-day notice from the Park Owner and all Home Owners would be entitled to a reduction in their lot rental amount, in an amount equal to the value of the services and facilities previously included in the lot rental amount.
FIllIng vaCanCIes on tHe Board Caused By resIgnatIon oF dIreCtor
A board member who had two years remain-ing on his term resigned. Can we fill this vacancy by moving a person with only 1 year remaining to fill the existing board member’s position of the director who has two years remaining on his term?
ANSWER: No. The term of a director elected or appointed to fill a vacancy expires at the next annual meeting at which directors are elected. See Section 723.078(2)(c)6, Florida Statutes.
Hole under HoMeI am currently a mobile home owner renting a lot in Pointe West MHP in Largo. Recently my contractor informed me that there is a large hole under this unit. My unit is on a canal and this is an ongoing issue.
A few years ago the lot between me and the next unit was sinking and it was determined that the trees that were dropped there for fill were all rotting. The Park had to dig up the area, refill it and re-route our down spouts. What is the Parks responsibility regarding this? I am not asking for repairs to the damage in my home, but to make this secure.
I understand that in the 70’s this area was a large ditch and as the Park filled up, they cut down all the trees and used them to fill the area, added additional fill and made new lots.I feel that since I am paying rent for the lot, it should be safe and reliable.
Answer: When first developing a mobile home community, it is not unusual for devel-opers to move trash and trees to a few of the lots in the rear of the Park, and cover these lots with soil fill. Normally these lots are the last lots upon which the developer places mobile homes. Experience shows that even-tually these lots begin to sink and the mobile home located thereon begin to come apart.
You are renting your lot from the Park Owner and paying the rental based on the legal assumption that the lot is fit for the purpose of supporting your mobile home. Your Park Owner obviously recognized its responsibility in this regard when on previ-ous occasions, it dug up and refilled soil on the lot next to yours. I would suggest that you advise the Park Owner in writing, by Certified Mail, return receipt requested, of your complaint and request immediate cor-
13FMO News
rective action. If the Park Owner is unrespon-sive, I would suggest that you retain an attor-ney to assist you in remedying this issue.
In my experience, these types of issues are sometimes settled by the Park Owner agree-ing to moving your mobile home to another lot in the Park, or by the Park Owner purchas-ing your mobile home and selling you another mobile home at a safe location in the Park.
sell MoBIle HoMe, But KeeP sHare In roC?I live in a Pointe West, a Resident Owned Park, in Largo, FL. We became an ROC about 10 years ago. Is there any way we can separate the mobile home ownership from the share owner-ship?
My wife has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and we will have to move within a couple of years back to Illinois. When that time arises, I would like to retain share ownership in the park, but sell my mobile home.
ANSWER: In a Florida Resident-Owned Residential Cooperative Mobile Home Community (ROC), the Co-op operates under the authority of Chapter 719, Florida Statutes (“The Cooperative Act”). It is not legally pos-sible to separate the ownership of the mobile home and the ownership of the coopera-tive share. When you move from your Co-op Community, it will be necessary for you to sell and assign to the purchaser the com-plete cooperative unit, to-wit: the proprietary lease, the share in the Co-op, and the mobile home. Separation of the ownership of the mobile home from the share ownership is not legally permissable.
Don’t forget to check out this very useful feature on the FMO website at www.fmo1.org.
1. Find Legal Ease Questions & An-swers from the FMO News last 10 years.
2. On the home page, Click on Lee Jay Colling’s Legal Ease-Click on Legal Documents.
3. Scroll down to find the information that might interest you and click.
*Please remember that some answers may have had legal updates since publication date.*
legal ease archives
July/August 201614
DBPR
TEAM
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today marks the beginning of the 2016 Atlantic hur-ricane season, and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is reminding consumers, business-es and professionals to protect themselves following the event of a natural disaster by hiring licensed professionals to per-form repair services. There are numerous risks Floridians face during the hurricane season that increase the potential danger for unlicensed activity scams and threaten the livelihood of consumers.
“Hurricane season is a time when the state of Florida has a greater risk for storm relat-ed damage to homes and businesses,” said DBPR Secretary Ken Lawson. “Verifying the state-issued license of a professional with DBPR is one of the best ways for con-sumers to protect their safety and finan-cial wellbeing after a natural disaster hits. With the right knowledge of what to do following a hurricane, Floridians can pre-vent a natural disaster from turning into a financial disaster.”
There is often an influx of unlicensed contracting activity during hurricane sea-son. Unlicensed activity occurs when an
individual who is not licensed by the state provides or offers to provide services that require a license in the state of Florida. There are instances where contractors may travel from out of state to areas affected by natural disasters to take advantage of the extensive repair work. DBPR reminds Florida consumers that licensed contrac-tors in another state are still required to obtain a state license from DBPR to per-form construction services on a Florida home or business.
During a natural disaster, DBPR may dis-patch groups to organize door-to-door sweeps in conjunction with law enforce-ment, building departments and other state agencies. Consumers should report suspected unlicensed activity to DBPR by calling the Unlicensed Activity Hotline at (866) 532-1440 or by emailing [email protected]. Unlicensed activ-ity is illegal and during a state of emer-gency declared by executive order of the Governor, the penalty for unlicensed activity raises from a misdemeanor offense to a third degree felony.
DBPR reminds consumers to be knowl-edgeable of the common storm-related
IMPORTANT NEWS...From the DBPR
15FMO News
construction services that require state licensure in an effort to prevent unli-censed activity scams. Roof repairs, roof installations, plumbing repairs, window installations, electrical repairs and rewir-ing all require a state license with DBPR. However, trimming or removal of fallen trees, removal of debris or placement of tarps on roofs do not require a state license. In the event of services requiring state licensure being needed following a storm, DBPR urges consumers to always verify the license prior to hiring or sign-ing a contract. Consumers may verify a license by visiting www.myfloridalicense.com, calling (850) 487-1395 or down-loading the free DBPR Mobile app avail-able in the iTunes and Google Play app stores.
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The Department licenses and regulates more than one million businesses and profes-sionals ranging from hotels and restau-rants, real estate agents and accountants to veterinarians, contractors and cosme-tologists. For more information, please visit www.myfloridalicense.com.
Order your copy of the Florida
Mobile Home Act, Florida
Statute Chapter 723 from the
Department of Business and
Professional Regulation.
Call toll free: 800-226-9101 or 850-487-1395
Email: Please visit www.MyFloridalicense.com/Contact Us to complete our email correspondence form.
Web: www.MyFlorida.com/dbpr
Mailing: Department of Business & Professional Regulation Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshares and Mobile Homes Northwood Centre 1940 North Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-1030
How to get your copy of F.s. 723 directly from the dBPr
Glen [email protected]
(863) 956-0146
Larry [email protected]
(941) 721-3647
Richard [email protected]
(386) 760-7140
Mail a copy of your complaint to:FMO
Attn: Jane Clapp4020 Portsmouth Rd.
Largo, FL 33771
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (727) 530-7539
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation is the agency charged with licens-ing and regulating businesses and profes-sionals in the State of Florida. More infor-mation about DBPR is available online atwww.myfloridalicense.com. Also, fol-low @FloridaDBPR on Twitter or Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation on Facebookfor updates about license renewal cycles, events and other important news.
July/August 201616
MAITLAND, FL – Citizens Board of Governors on Wednesday approved recommended rates for 2017 that respond to rising non-weather water losses and assignment of benefit abuse that left unchecked will force rate hikes for years to come. By unanimous vote, board members recommended a 6.8 percent statewide increases for personal lines policyholders, reversing a recent trend of lower rates for all but South Florida customers as the effects of water losses, assignment of benefits abuse and increased litigation begin to spread across the state.
Without significant reform, Citizens policyholders must brace themselves for continued rate hikes as water losses and increased costs surrounding assign-ment of benefits eat into surplus and force Citizens to repeatedly raise rates to fulfill its statutory obligations to set actuarially sound rates under the glide path. The issue is complex and not unique to Citizens, said Barry Gilway, Citizens President, CEO and Executive Director. A solution will require the cooperative efforts of all stakeholders.
“The causes for these increases include the AOB doc-ument itself, referral fees and other inducements, unchecked solicitation for mitigation business, lack of licensing and regulation and a general lack of knowl-edge on the part of customers of the risks involved with an AOB,” Gilway said. “The bottom line is that this is a crisis, not just for Citizens, but the entire Florida property market.”
Under the proposed rates, inland homeowners with multiperil policies would see an average increase of 6.3 percent, while homeowners along the coast would see rates climb by an average of 8.6 percent. Rates for con-dominium unit owners would rise by a statewide aver-age of 7.1 percent. Despite statewide increases, thou-sands of Citizens customers will see rate reductions.
The 2017 proposed rates would have been higher had the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation not recently approved a set of Citizens policy contract changes regarding emergency services and notification require-ments before permanent repairs can begin. Following Citizens’ lead, many private insurance companies have filed similar requests.
The rate recommendations will be submitted to the
Office of Insurance Regulation, which will make its decision after holding a public hearing later this sum-mer. The new rates will go into effect after January 1. “Every year, our actuaries use recognized standards to formulate the rate recommendations presented to this board,” said Chris Gardner, Citizens Chairman. “We don’t want to raise rates, but we must respond to the actuarial data. Unfortunately, our policyholders are being required to pay higher rates because of inflated claims, increased litigation and abuse. We can’t keep asking them to do that.”
Citizens’ analyses show water losses have increased in both severity and frequency. Claims filed with Citizens under an assignment of benefits are more expensive and far more likely to lead to litigation, which only adds to the cost of the claim. Under current condi-tions, rates in Miami-Dade County would need to nearly triple to adequately pay claims. Statewide, per-sonal lines rates would have to rise an average of 65 percent. South Florida policyholders are far more likely to assign benefits to a third party –a contractor, water mitigation company or public adjuster – before sub-mitting their claim.
Nearly one in four South Florida policyholders assign their benefits to a third party. Citizens is required by law to recommend rates that are actuarially sound, while complying with a legislative glide path that caps rate increases at 10 percent, excluding coverage changes and surcharges. In July, Citizens will submit its 2017 recommended rates to the Office of Insurance Regulation, which must establish rates for Citizens before they take effect.
Citizens has prepared a 2017 rate kit to provide infor-mation about its recommended rates for 2017, includ-ing county-by-county estimates for particular policy types. Additional information and answers to com-mon questions about Citizens’ rates and premiums are included in Citizens 2017 Rates Frequently Asked Questions. The kit also includes additional informa-tion about Citizens’ costs and projected rate need for 2017.
Citizens Board Approves 2017 Rates
reprint:June 24, 2016CitizensAdvisor
17FMO News
During the first four decades of its existence, the FMO grew to become a political force. Legislators would contact us to learn what they could do for us and, in turn, gain our vote. Since the new millennium, our membership has been in decline. The additional new members who join the FMO each year are more than offset by those who, for whatever reason, do not renew.
The Legislature today does not want to entertain an FMO proposal, unless we submit a bill already negotiated with the FMHA (the park owners). We have done this successfully the last two years, but, as with any negotiations, neither side gets what they want the most. None the less, we continue to seek amendments to both protect and improve our lifestyle.
We have to come to the realization that the new generation looks at membership organizations differently than we do. They need to be approached and convinced there is value to them. Many question the authority and decisions of those who volunteer, but they do not care to take on the responsibility and change from within. Moreover, when they are threatened or have questions, they come to the FMO for assistance.
As a “baby boomer”, I understand this attitude somewhat, but I also realized early on that cor-porations tend to look for ways to separate us from our money. The mission of a corporation is to increase their return every year, which significantly affects those of us on fixed incomes. The FMO is the only advocate we have at the state level to monitor and oppose this activity. And it is imperative that this organization – the FMO – survives!
In 2014, when John Salvucci became FMO President, he made tough and necessary fiscal deci-sions to insure our survival. However, at our current level of membership, it will be necessary to look further at our finances. Our organization – the FMO – needs to be able to address the chal-lenges of the 21st century and further ensure our survival.
Your ideas would be greatly appreciated. If you are receiving this, you have already demon-strated your passion for this organization and its mission. FMO needs you to go a step further and excite your neighbors. You are our greatest ambassadors, and today’s resident requires a personal touch.
Is Your Neighbor an FMO Member?
Jerry DurhamFMO Director at LargeFMO Legislative [email protected]
Not Your Father’s FMO
July/August 201618
ROC News
STATe UMbrellA rOC GrOUpFlArOC (Florida resident Owned Communities Inc.)
Sandy Ross PresidentGeorge Russell VP/Treasurer Chris Golen SecretaryLee Jay Colling Director, General Counsel Legislative Attorney
CHAPTERS:WeST CeNTrAl – pinellas, Hillsborough and pasco CountiesEd Mosakowski President [email protected] Simmons Vice-President [email protected] Ross Secretary [email protected] Thomas Treasurer [email protected] Schwind Director [email protected] eAST CeNTrAl – Highland, Indian river, Martin, Okeechobee and St. lucie CountiesGeorge Russell President Pro-TemOther Directors Officers to be announced
SOUTHWeST – bradenton, Charlotte, Collier, Highland, lee and CountiesHazel Albert President [email protected] Bainbridge Vice President [email protected] Beth Ford Secretary [email protected] Graves Treasurer [email protected] Lattman DirectorDon Endsley DirectorDale Bradford DirectorManasota – Manatee and Sarasota CountiesBarbara Jahnke 941-756-6950 Call for InfoChris Golen
AFFILIATED GROUPS:eprOC east pasco resident Owned Communities. Inc.Larry Myott PresidentMarianne Zehnacker Vice PresidentLinda Lafayette SecretaryNancy Bishop TreasurerRebecca Gladdis ChairmanBob Thiel Director-at-Large
Visit Mid-Fl-Roc.com, click on EPROC for meeting dates, agenda, member communities along with other information.
Visit FLAROC.com for meeting dates, agenda, member communities and other information about the FLAROC Organization.
Larry Myott Director Pat Carlisle DirectorBeth Ford DirectorDawn Simmons DirectorBarbara Weese DirectorBarb Jahnke Director
19FMO News
Visit Mid-Fl-Roc.com, click on ROC FORUM for meeting dates, agenda, member communities along with other information.
ClArIFICATIONS
Chapter 723:Florida Statute governing tenancies in mobile home parks
Chapter 617:Florida Statute governing not-for-profit corporations
Chapter 607:Florida Statute governing for-profit corporations
Chapter 720:Florida Statute governing Homeowners Associations
HOA:A homeowner association governed by Florida Statute 723 – The Florida Mobile Home Act.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
DA R
ADR mediation encourages communication
and negotiation between homeowners and
community owners, and allows them to
settle disagreements in a neutral and non-
threatening environment, without costly
court litigation.
For HOA’s that want to file an application, call FMO at 727-530-7539.
Remember: No Rent Issues, Reduction of Services or Rule Amendments will be mediated.
MID-Fl-rOC lake, Sumter, and North Orange CountiesFrank Deopere President [email protected] Ciaccglione Vice President Ken Elliott Secretary [email protected] Andrus Treasurer [email protected] Flint Director [email protected] Galvin Director [email protected] Shaw Director [email protected] Barbieux Director [email protected] Twort Director [email protected]
July/August 201620
FMO - WHO DO WE HELP?Because there are all types of manufactured home owners—those that
own their home and land, those that rent land, those that live in family
communities, just to mention a few—the FMO has diversified to assist
homeowners in whatever situations they may find themselves.
rental Communities: Residents of rental manufactured home com-munities own their homes and rent the lot on which the home sets. The FMO helps residents of rental manufactured/mobile home com-munities prepare for negotiating with their park owners regarding
rent increases. The FMO also provides information about Chapter 723, Florida Statutes (FS), which governs unique park owner/lot renter issues. In addition, the FMO offers workshops on negotiating with a park owner and resident purchase of a community.
resident Owned Communities: The FMO has pushed for and won many rights for resident owned communities (coop-erative and condominium forms of own-ership), including clarification of home-stead exemption requirements so coop-erative manufactured home residents could claim the $25,000 exemption from taxation enjoyed by other Florida res-idents. Working with other organiza-tions, the FMO has also succeeded in getting the Florida legislature to lower the annual fees for registering a not-for-profit corporation with the state.
Family Communities: The FMO is aware of the unique challenges faced by fami-lies. As working parents with small chil-dren or working adults without children, those who live in family communities are consumed with many activities during the day and don’t have time to worry about new local or state laws that could affect their lives. The FMO monitors these issues for them.
Subdivisions: In the early 1990s, FMO members who lived in subdivisions began asking the FMO for assistance with some problems they were having with community developers. In 1995, the FMO successfully pushed legislation specifically for mandatory homeowners’ associations, which include subdivisions.
21FMO News
Welcome FMO Members!
Well summer has officially started and it looks like it will be a HOT one. Those who are returning back to Florida from their winter homes, I hope you are settled in and ready to help out by getting the word out there in your community about the FMO.
There are so many people out there living in your community that have no idea who the FMO is or what this organization does. Getting the word out will help promote new memberships or even better, renewing ones that may have lapsed. The more of us there are, the better FMO can continue to get laws passed to protect and better the lifestyle of those who live in a mobile/manufactured home.
If you should need recruiting materials or have questions, please feel free to contact the business office at 727.530.7539 and ask for Jane.
LIFETIME MEMBERS: We sent you a letter in June asking you to update/verify your information that we have on our database. Please read and return the page with your current information so that we can make sure our database is up to date. Even if you do not have any changes, we need you to send the information back in the enclosed envelope so we can note that in your record. You can also call the office or email to make sure we have the correct information. Those we do not hear back from will be inactivated until we hear otherwise. Also if you do not receive your cards or your FMO News, let us know. That will insure that we have your correct information on our records.
Thank you, Beth Pankow | Membership Supervisor | [email protected]
The FMO HOA Honor RollHonoring HOA Boards of Directors having 100% FMO Membership
DISTRICT 1 Lake Pointe Village, Mulberry
DISTRICT 14Bear Creek, Ormond BeachLamplighter, Port Orange
FMO would like to recognize your home owners association. Let us know once you attain 100% FMO membership on your HOA Board of Directors. Simply submit your park name, city, and board member names and membership numbers to: [email protected] or mail to the FMO State Office.
Member Servicesby Beth Pankow
July/August 201622
If you are or you know an FMO member who is at least 90 years old, please let us know.
E-mail your digital photo, along with the descrip-tion, to [email protected]. Send photos to FMO, 4020 Portsmouth Road, Largo, FL 33771, ATTN: FMO NEWS. If you have any questions call Joyce at (727) 530-7539.
Send a photo and a brief description of your hobbies, your lifestyle, and what keeps you feeling young. If more than one person is pictured, please provide the names of everyone as well as the context for the photo (park meeting, pot-luck dinner, birthday party), as well as the date and location where the photo was taken.
Special thanks to the family and friends who continue to support this column by sending in photos and articles of their friends, neighbors and relatives.
9 X 10 Club
wIllIaM wolF
William “Bill” Wolf was born in York, PA on May 29, 1926. He stayed in school until he was 17 years old and then joined the Navy. His basic training was boot camp in Sampson, NY. He moved to B a i n b r i d g e , M D
to Corps school followed by hospital training in Bethesda, MD. His highlight memory while in Bethesda was seeing Franklin Delano Roosevelt while working at the hospital. FDR had come there for a physical.
Bill moved to Jacksonville, FL to the Naval Air Station. His final assignment was in the Philippines where he served as Assistant Flight Hospital Corpsman. All of his travels amounted to 3 ½ years of service.
Bill spent a lot of memorable time in Texas where he enjoyed bartending at the VFW.
Bill and his wife Jane moved to Westside Ridge in Auburndale in 1999. They joined the HOA and the FMO and quickly became active in the com-munity. Sadly, Jane passed away December 15, 2015. Fortunately Bill has his faithful dog Jazzy to walk with him in his new journey.
Submitted by:Jan Montague-FMO RepWestside Ridge, Auburndale
Harold taylorHarold Taylor was born on April 5, 1926 to McKinley and Leota Taylor in Bellefontaine, OH. He graduated from Huntsville High School in 1944 and immediately went into the Navy and served on the USS Bushnell A515, a sub-marine tender, as a radio oper-ator. He received his discharge papers on June 3, 1946. He grad-uated from Bowling Green State
in 1950. He married Phyllis Sidle on June 1, 1951. He taught high school chemistry and physics in Ohio for several years and then got his Master’s degree from Miami University of Ohio in 1966. He ended his high school teaching career at Wapakoneta, OH, where Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon graduated.
Harold moved to Florida in 1986 and became a Chemistry and Physics lab supervisor at Polk State College. He also taught classes at both the Lakeland and Winter Haven campuses. He retired from teaching in 2003.
Harold and Phyllis moved to Westside Ridge in Auburndale in 1988. Now retired, he kept busy by repairing and building com-puters for residents of the community. Phyllis now leads the WSR Bible study. Both Harold and Phyllis were active for many years in the HOA, FMO and entertainment committee.
His 90th birthday was celebrated with an open house with about 50 family and friends in attendance to celebrate this milestone! He has two children Jeffrey of Winter Haven and Janet of Greenville, SC. He also has two granddaughters Jennifer and Bethany.
Submitted by:Jan Montague-FMO RepWestside Ridge, Auburndale
23FMO News
Weatherization Worksin Florida
To inquire about assistance from the Weatherization Assistance Program, locate the county in which you live and contact the local agency listed in the March/April FMO News, page 17.
FREE TO GOOD HOME
FMO News magazine on-line with
your paid FMO membership
INTERESTED?
Then contact the office at 727-530-
7539 or e-mail [email protected]
Tell the FMO office that you want to receive your FMO magazine by e-mail. The magazine will be emailed prior to receiving your hard copy by regular mail. And, if you are a member that lives out of the U.S., this is the only way to receive the FMO News when not in Florida, as we do not mail the maga-zine out of the U.S. due to postage costs.
July/August 201624
FMO DISTRICT 2
I would like to introduce myself. I am Rebecca Cooper and I am now doing publicity for the FMO, state-wide. I am looking for information from you regard-ing names of your local papers, town papers or local park editor information to help in this endeavor.
Please contact me with any information or ideas you may have.
Thank you.
Rebecca Cooper
FMO Publicist
440-533-5559
Section I, Districts 2 & 10James HamiltonSection I Director
Now that the 2015/2016 season of meet-ings has come to a close, I feel that Section I had some great turn outs for them. Guest speakers were very informa-tive and our park rep meeting held in April had a great turn out.
Looking forward to 2016/2017 season, I hope to work more closely with HOA boards and hold FMO informative Q & A sessions during their HOA meetings. Spreading the word about the FMO and the rights of manufactured/mobile home owners is our # 1 priority.
Keep an eye out for our District 2 & 10 general meeting dates that will be held in various parks starting in the fall. If you have a subject or a question you would like covered at one of these meetings, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]. You can also con-tact District 2 President John Hisiro at [email protected] or District 10 President Susan Ambrose [email protected].
As always, feel free to contact me at any time.
FMO: Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, Inc.
DBPR: Department of Business and Professional Regulation
ROC: Resident Owned Community
ADR: Alternative Dispute Resolution
HOA: Home Owner Association
FS: Florida Statute
DIVISION: Division of Condominiums, Timeshares, and Mobile Homes
F.A.C.: Florida Administrative Code
Abbreviations of Common FMO Terms
News From the Field
25FMO News
Every month, the FMO Board of Directors gets an up-to-date printout of our membership by sec-tion, district and individual manufactured home communities. Unfortunately, the trend is always the same, downward.
Our board of directors and district officers are all volunteers. They are trying their best to keep the FMO afloat but somewhere along the line there is a “disconnect”. No one has worked harder or devoted more time to the continued success of FMO than your president, John Salvucci. He has driven thousands of miles to speak with HOAs, HOA boards and at FMO district meetings. And of course, there are countless committee meetings, negotiations with the FMHA on legisla-tive amendments to Florida Statute 723, and trips to Tallahassee to “encourage” the DBPR to do better. He also conducted several educational seminars around the state for the benefit of HOA board members. Don’t you believe that all of this action on your behalf deserves at the very least your membership renewal?
Almost every action we take inures to the benefit of your HOA, yet many HOAs do nothing to support or strengthen the FMO.
Last December at our State Assembly, an amendment to add HOAs as a class of membership to the FMO Bylaws was proposed, but the delegates overwhelmingly turned it down. Too bad, as some of us felt that an HOA membership might pave the road to our salvation. At least we could have put a committee together to study the feasibility of such a membership.
So, as we get closer and closer to the “sink or swim” stage, it is up to you as a true believer in the purpose of the FMO to do two things: 1) get someone in your community to join, and 2) make sure that you and another member of the FMO do not overlook paying your renewal bills when they come in. If you believed in the FMO when you joined, you certainly should believe in the FMO today!
To Sink or Swim?
Larry NorthVice President of FMO
July/August 201626
the Florida Mobile Home relocation CorporationThe Florida Mobile Home Relocation Trust Fund was created for the purpose of funding the administration and operations of the Florida Mobile Home Relocation Corporation. The purpose of this public corporation is to make payments to mobile home owners who are required to move due to a change in use of the land compris-ing their mobile home park.These payments are designed to help offset the expense of the home owner’s cost of relocating.
Relocation is moving the mobile home to a new location whether it be a different mobile home park or private land. Upon approval, a home owner may be entitled to moving expenses of $3,000 for a single-section mobile home and $6,000 for a multi-section mobile home. In lieu of filing for relocation, a home owner may abandon the mobile home to the park owner. The home owner can deliver the title to the park owner, once it’s been duly endorsed by the owner of record and valid releases of all liens shown on the title. The owner of a single-section mobile home will be eligible for $1,375 and the owner of a multi-section mobile home will be eligible for $2,750 in compensation from the Corporation.
Please contact The Florida Mobile Home Relocation Corporation in one of the following ways:
Toll Free Telephone: U.S. Mail: 1-888-862-7010 FMHRC P.O. Box 7848Local Phone Number: Clearwater, FL 33758-7848727-754-4994
Price ea. _________
_________
Total Cost
_________Quantity
Make sure your HOA is prepared and
up-to-date on current topics.
FMO members can order a manual
for $9.63 plus shipping & handling – per copy.
Total $15.63
Office pickup only $10!
This “best-selling” guide is a must-have for every member of a homeowners association in a manufac-tured/mobile home community governed by F.S. 723.
ToPIcS INcLUde: • Incorporation •Dutiesofeachboardmember •Finance •Meetingswiththeparkowner •PreparingforHomeownersAssociation’s
annual meeting and much more.
Important forms included that can be copied and used!
FMO’s Homeowners Association Manual
Mail this order form & check payable to FMO to 4020 Portsmouth Rd., Largo, FL 33771. Please allow 2 weeks for delivery.
Price ea. x Quantity
_________
Name: ___________________________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
FMO Member number: ________________________
27FMO News
1. Type in browser www.fmo1.org
2. Go to instructions in the upper right corner and click on “blue” instructions box.
3. First time users to this website must click on “Sign up”, type in the email ad-dress that you supplied with your FMO membership, type in a password and click “go”.
4. A confirmation email will be sent to those who are current members within 24-48 hours. Emails will also be sent to those who are not members or if there is an issue with sign up.
5. After you receive the confirmation email, you will be able to go onto the website main page. Click on “login” in the upper right corner. Put in your email address and password then click “go”. If you have forgotten your pass-word, click on “Forgot your password?” to reset it.
6. To renew your membership, place cursor on “members”, click “member store”, then click “membership renewal.”
7. District officers or park reps can go to the home page and place the cur-sor on “members”, scroll down to “associates” then login with your FMO membership number (numbers only) and Florida zip code to receive your reports. To print the reports export to pdf or excel. If you are unsure of the procedures, call the office at 727-530-7539 or email Beth [email protected] to give you instructions on how to obtain your membership reports.
8. If you change your email address, let Beth know so she can change it in the data base as you will have to sign up again.
To Sign Up On FMO’s New Website For New And existing Members:
July/August 201628
One year FMO Membership for $25
Three year FMO Membership for $65
Cross Country Motor Club – add $35 per year (Your renewal for Cross Country will be mailed to you separately)
Only the two individuals listed below are eligible for membership. Persons listed must live at the address given on this application.
We need the following information (please print clearly)
Date:_______________________________________________________
Name:______________________________________________________
Birth Date (optional):__________________________________________
Co-Member:_________________________________________________
Florida Address:______________________________________________
City/State/Zip:_______________________________________________
Phone:(_____) ______________________________________________
E-Mail Address:______________________________________________
Park Name:_________________________________________________ I am a: Lot Renter Other_____________________________
Number of Florida registered voters in household:_______
***********************************************************************************************************************
KEEP THIS PORTION AS YOUR RECEIPT (RETURN THE APPLICATION PORTION TO THE FMO)
Please enclose check payable to FMO. US Funds only. Do not send cash.
A complete explanation of your FMO benefits will be included with your new membership cards. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing time.
Cross Country Members: You will receive a separate membership card from Cross Country in approximately 4 to 6 weeks. If you should need roadside assistance before you receive your Cross Country Card please call their toll free number (800) 528-2056.
Questions? Call membership at 727-530-7539 or e-mail: [email protected]. Thanks you for joining the only organization fighting for the rights of manufactured / mobile home owners!
Date:_______________ Name of person receiving check:_________________________________________________________
Check Amount:________________________________ Check Number:_________________________________ #040 rev. 10/10/2014
FMO Membership ApplicationFill out and return this portion along with your check to: Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, P.O. Box 5300, Largo, FL 33779-5300
Best Value
Non Florida Address: (If applicable) Address:_______________________________ City/State/Zip:__________________________ Check off what months you do not live in Florida Jan. Feb Mar Apr May Jun. July Aug Sep. Oct. Nov Dec
Recruiter Name ________________________ _____________________________________ Membership Number____________________
To pay with credit card:
Mastercard Visa Discover Am.Express
Card #___________________________________________
Exp. Date:_____________ Phone ____________________
Signature:________________________________________
29FMO News
YES...I want to join Cross Country Motor ClubDate: _______________________ FMO Membership #: ________________________________________
Member : ____________________________________ Secondary Member: ________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________
City/State/Zip: ______________________________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________________________________
E-mail (please print): ________________________________________________________________________
Do not send cash. Fill out the coupon above and enclose a check or money order for $35, payable to FMO. Mark front of envelope “Cross Country Membership enclosed” and mail to: Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, 4020 Portsmouth Rd., Largo, FL 33771.
Questions? e-mail Joyce at [email protected] or call (727) 530-7539.
Note: Your Cross Country Motor Club Membership will be billed separately. Please allow 4–6 weeks to receive your card from CCMC.
*To take advantage of this offer, you must be an FMO member in good standing.This fantastic offer is available to ALL FMO members!
$35 covers you and your spouse for 1 year.
COMPARE Benefit Cross Country AAA
Emergency Road Service
Theft Reward Decal
Emergency Message Service
Custom Trip Routing/ Map Service
Annual Cost * $35$66/first year$66/renewal
Yesup to
$5,000 rewardwill call 3 family
members
Yes
Yesup to
$1,000 rewardnot
available
Yes
AllstateMotor Club
$52.00
Yesup to
$5,000 rewardnot
available
Yes
U 24-Hour Emergency Road Service
U Custom Computerized Trip Routing/Map Service
U Reimbursement for Emergency Travel Expense
U Emergency Message Service
U Auto/Truck/RV Rental Discounts
U Hotel/Motel Discounts
U Spouse covered at no extra charge
U Much much more!
Cross Country Motor Club = Premium Roadside Service
July/August 201630
FMO Resource Material Order Form #70www.FMO1.orgFMO Resource Material Order Form #70
Name Date
Street Address District
City, Zip Code Member #
Phone Park Name
PLEASE SEND ORDER FORM TO: FMO, 4020 PORTSMOUTH RD, LARGO, FL 33771 Instructions: Please mark quantities on all items requested. ALLOW 2 WEEKS FOR DELIVERY!
Items marked with an arrow must be purchased. Send check payable to FMO
Item #
Item Description Qty Item #
Item Description Qty
LEGAL INFORMATION MEMBER RECRUITMENT MATERIALS
260 FS 723 Reference Guide 09 Accomplishments - Legal/Legislative
339 Filing Instructions/Tax Liabilities Not for Profit $3.50 301 “FMO Happenings” Bulletin Board Banner
22 Filing Requirements for Homeowners’ Associations 313 FMO Bookmarks
19 Finding an Attorney 50 Cross Country Motor Club
24 How Mobile Home Owners are Taxed 298 FMO/HOA Common Goal Flyer
237 Final Rules—Housing for Older Persons $2.50 362 We Give You A Voice Recruitment Flyer
250 How to Form a Homeowners’ Association 363 Why Be a Member of FMO?
365 Homestead Exemption Factsheet 364 Who is the FMO?
291 Know Your Rights When Selling Your Home 40 Membership Applications
23 Law on Delivery of Rent Increases
142 Obtaining Correct Prospectus
314 Pass-on/Pass-Through Charges BOOKS
29 Sample Limited Proxy Form 69 Homeowners’ Association Manual $13.56*
324 Satellite Dish Flyer (HOA Manual is $8.56 each if picked up)
347 Tie-Down Rule 15C-1 $3.50 * Price includes tax, shipping and handling
MEDIATION INFORMATION
26 DBPR—Mobile Home Complaint Form PLEASE REMIT PAYMENT WITH ORDER
28 DBPR Mediation Form Price subject to change without notice
149 Mediation Offers First Chance of Dispute Resolution To pay with credit card
25 Negotiation with Your Park Owner Mastercard VISA Discover
MISCELLANEOUS Card # _____________________________ Exp. Date _______
61 FMO Decal $1.00 Signature______________________________________
312 Mobile Home Tie Down Article Billing Address Same as Above
17 FMO Expense Report Address _______________________________________
70 FMO Resource Material Order Form City/State/Zip __________________________________
07 Oath of Officers/Charge to the Officers
Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, Inc. 4020 Portsmouth Rd Largo, FL 33771
(727) 530-7539 Fax: (727) 535-9427
Website: www.fmo1.org Rev 10/2014
Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, Inc.4020 Portsmouth Rd., Largo, FL 33771
(727) 530-7539 • FAX (727) 535-9427Website: www.fmo1.org
$15.63(HOA Manual is $10.00 each if picked up at FMO office)
Declaration of Homestead for Manufactured/Mobile Homes
31FMO News
For advertising
information
e-mail Joyce at
Advertisers’ INDEX
Proudly Roofing Since 1985
FL Lic. #CCC057091
Mobile/Manufactured Home Roofing System• Insulated Energy Star Rated Roof
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1-800-226-0955www.comfortcover.org
Name Phone Website Page
COMFORT COVER SYSTEMS ROOFING 1-800-226-0955 www.comfortcover.org 31
CROSS COUNTRY MOTOR CLUB 1-727-530-7539 www.fmo1.org 29
FLORIDA ANCHOR & BARRIER 1-800-681-3722 floridaanchorandbarrier.com 20
FMO APPLICATION 1-727-530-7539 www.fmo1.org 28
FMO HOA MANUAL 1-727-530-7539 www.fmo1.org 26
LIFESTYLE CHOICE REALTY, IINC 1-866-527-3258 www.lifestylechoicerealty.com 23
MOBILE HOME INSURANCE 2
PROFESSIONAL INSURANCE SYSTEMS 1-800-329-5799 www.proinsurance.us 32
Remember...You can go
online to www.FMO1.
org and register to use our
website! What a great way
to keep in touch while
you are away!
Professional Insurance Systems of Florida, Inc.
5700 1st Ave N St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Phone: 800-329-5799 Phone: 727-579-9956 Fax: 727-579-9767 Email: [email protected]
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800-329-5799
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