Bullying Committee Member Has to Go

P.B. from Middlesex County writes:

Dear Mister Condo,

What remedies are available in Connecticut to remove an abusive and disruptive Condo Committee member? All I have seen are rules regarding the Board. The Committee Members are all volunteers and some would rather resign than confront the bully fearing repercussions. That lets the bully win and enables the abuse to continue. Thank you for your help.

Mister Condo replies:

P.B., I am always troubled to learn of bullying in any setting. It can be especially troubling in community associations and condominiums where neighbors live so closely together that it is often difficult to put some distance between yourself and the bully. It is important to keep in mind that you and your fellow residents have legal rights that supersede your association rules. If this bully crosses the line, do not hesitate to call local law enforcement and press charges.

As a matter of condo governance, committees and their chairs are generally selected to serve by the Board. That means the Board also has the power to remove the Committee member. If the Board is unwilling to do so, your only option is to elect Board members who will take the action of removing the bullying Committee member. Alternatively, members of the committee that are serving under the bully can resign, forcing the Board to reconsider their decision to let the bully stay on the Committee.

None of these scenarios are pleasant and a far better solution would be for the bully to simply stop behaving in such a way as to cause a problem. I once overheard a Board member say to a unit owner “If your Mother didn’t teach you how to be a decent human being, I am not sure there is too much I can do to help you”. There are just some people who do not function well within a community association atmosphere. There is no place for bullies here. Encourage your Board to take the appropriate measures and get on with enjoying your community association living experience. All the best!