Keith W. Cunningham v. The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium

Case Summary

Case ID 24F-H008-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2024-01-11
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome Petitioner's petition is granted. Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by failing to provide requested records within 10 business days. Respondent violated CC&Rs Section 8.1.1 by failing to maintain insurance coverage equal to 100% of the replacement cost and failing to meet specific liability limits. Respondent is ordered to reimburse Petitioner's $1,000.00 filing fee and comply with the statute and CC&Rs going forward.
Filing Fees Refunded $1,000.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Keith W. Cunningham Counsel
Respondent The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC Counsel Allison Preston

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258
CC&Rs Section 8.1.1

Outcome Summary

Petitioner's petition is granted. Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by failing to provide requested records within 10 business days. Respondent violated CC&Rs Section 8.1.1 by failing to maintain insurance coverage equal to 100% of the replacement cost and failing to meet specific liability limits. Respondent is ordered to reimburse Petitioner's $1,000.00 filing fee and comply with the statute and CC&Rs going forward.

Key Issues & Findings

Records Request

Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to provide financial records and vendor contracts (Epic Valet, FirstService Residential, landscaping) within the statutory timeframe. The ALJ found Respondent failed to provide the documents within 10 business days of the July 10, 2023 request and subsequent July 24, 2023 request.

Orders: Respondent shall comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward.

Filing fee: $1,000.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258

Insurance Coverage

Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to maintain required insurance coverage. The ALJ found Respondent's property insurance coverage ($59M) was below the appraised replacement cost ($73M) and the general liability limits did not strictly comply with CC&Rs requirements despite an umbrella policy.

Orders: Respondent shall comply with Section 8.1.1 of the CC&Rs going forward.

Filing fee: $0.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • CC&Rs Section 8.1.1

Analytics Highlights

Topics: Records Request, Insurance Coverage, Condominium, Contracts, Vendor Contracts, Replacement Cost
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • CC&Rs Section 8.1.1

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1099767.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T12:14:44 (46.1 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1101587.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T12:14:47 (49.0 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1119643.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T12:14:51 (47.5 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1121917.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T12:14:55 (39.3 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1132963.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T12:14:58 (188.5 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1149691.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T12:15:04 (39.1 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1099767.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:01 (46.1 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1101587.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:03 (49.0 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1119643.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:04 (47.5 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1121917.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:06 (39.3 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1132963.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:07 (188.5 KB)

24F-H008-REL Decision – 1149691.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-12T19:18:08 (39.1 KB)

{
“case”: {
“docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”,
“case_title”: “In the Matter of Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”,
“decision_date”: “2024-01-11”,
“tribunal”: “OAH”,
“agency”: “ADRE”
},
“individuals”: [
{
“name”: “Keith W. Cunningham”,
“role”: “petitioner”,
“side”: “petitioner”,
“affiliation”: null,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “Allison Preston”,
“role”: “HOA attorney”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP”,
“notes”: “Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”
},
{
“name”: “Kyle von Johnson”,
“role”: “HOA attorney”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: null,
“notes”: “Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”
},
{
“name”: “Mark Teman”,
“role”: “board member”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: null,
“notes”: “Association President, witness”
},
{
“name”: “Allison Renow”,
“role”: “property manager”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Residential”,
“notes”: “General Manager (GM) on site”
},
{
“name”: “Frank Durso”,
“role”: “regional manager”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Residential”,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “Jamie George”,
“role”: “VP of Insurance”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Financial”,
“notes”: “Assists with association insurance policies”
},
{
“name”: “Holly McNelte”,
“role”: “management staff”,
“side”: “respondent”,
“affiliation”: “First Service Residential”,
“notes”: “FSR team member who managed documents/files”
},
{
“name”: “Jonathan Henley”,
“role”: “insurance broker”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “Gallagher”,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “Brian Del Vecchio”,
“role”: “ALJ”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “OAH”,
“notes”: “Administrative Law Judge who conducted the hearing (12/8/23)”
},
{
“name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer”,
“role”: “ALJ”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “OAH”,
“notes”: “Administrative Law Judge who wrote the decision”
},
{
“name”: “Susan Nicolson”,
“role”: “Commissioner”,
“side”: “neutral”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: null
},
{
“name”: “AHansen”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “vnunez”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “djones”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “labril”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “mneat”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “akowaleski”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
},
{
“name”: “gosborn”,
“role”: “ADRE staff”,
“side”: “unknown”,
“affiliation”: “Arizona Department of Real Estate”,
“notes”: “Transmission recipient”
}
]
}

{ “case”: { “agency”: “ADRE”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”, “case_title”: “In the Matter of Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “decision_date”: “2024-01-11”, “alj_name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer” }, “parties”: [ { “party_id”: “P1”, “role”: “petitioner”, “name”: “Keith W. Cunningham”, “party_type”: “homeowner”, “email”: “[email protected]”, “phone”: null, “attorney_name”: null, “attorney_firm”: null, “attorney_email”: null, “attorney_phone”: null }, { “party_id”: “R1”, “role”: “respondent”, “name”: “The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “party_type”: “HOA”, “email”: null, “phone”: null, “attorney_name”: “Allison Preston”, “attorney_firm”: “Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP”, “attorney_email”: “[email protected]”, “attorney_phone”: null } ], “issues”: [ { “issue_id”: “ISS-001”, “type”: “statute”, “citation”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “caption”: “Records Request”, “violation(s)”: “Failure to provide requested financial records and contracts within 10 business days”, “summary”: “Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to provide financial records and vendor contracts (Epic Valet, FirstService Residential, landscaping) within the statutory timeframe. The ALJ found Respondent failed to provide the documents within 10 business days of the July 10, 2023 request and subsequent July 24, 2023 request.”, “outcome”: “petitioner_win”, “filing_fee_paid”: 1000.0, “filing_fee_refunded”: true, “civil_penalty_amount”: 0.0, “orders_summary”: “Respondent shall comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward.”, “why_the_loss”: null, “cited”: [“A.R.S. § 33-1258”] }, { “issue_id”: “ISS-002”, “type”: “governing_documents”, “citation”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “caption”: “Insurance Coverage”, “violation(s)”: “Failure to maintain property insurance equal to 100% of replacement cost and general liability insurance limits as required”, “summary”: “Petitioner alleged Respondent failed to maintain required insurance coverage. The ALJ found Respondent’s property insurance coverage (59M)wasbelowtheappraisedreplacementcost(73M) and the general liability limits did not strictly comply with CC&Rs requirements despite an umbrella policy.”, “outcome”: “petitioner_win”, “filing_fee_paid”: 0.0, “filing_fee_refunded”: false, “civil_penalty_amount”: 0.0, “orders_summary”: “Respondent shall comply with Section 8.1.1 of the CC&Rs going forward.”, “why_the_loss”: null, “cited”: [“CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”] } ], “money_summary”: { “issues_count”: 2, “total_filing_fees_paid”: 1000.0, “total_filing_fees_refunded”: 1000.0, “total_civil_penalties”: 0.0 }, “outcomes”: { “petitioner_is_hoa”: false, “petitioner_win”: “yes”, “summarize_judgement”: “Petitioner’s petition is granted. Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by failing to provide requested records within 10 business days. Respondent violated CC&Rs Section 8.1.1 by failing to maintain insurance coverage equal to 100% of the replacement cost and failing to meet specific liability limits. Respondent is ordered to reimburse Petitioner’s $1,000.00 filing fee and comply with the statute and CC&Rs going forward.”, “why_the_loss”: null }, “analytics”: { “cited”: [“A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”], “tags”: [“Records Request”, “Insurance Coverage”, “Condominium”, “Contracts”, “Vendor Contracts”, “Replacement Cost”] } }

{ “case”: { “docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”, “case_title”: “Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “decision_date”: “2024-01-11”, “alj_name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “agency”: “ADRE” }, “questions”: [ { “question”: “How many days does my HOA have to provide records after I request them?”, “short_answer”: “The HOA has 10 business days to fulfill a request for examination of records.”, “detailed_answer”: “According to Arizona law cited in the decision, an association must make financial and other records reasonably available for examination within ten business days of a member’s request.”, “alj_quote”: “The association shall have ten business days to fulfill a request for examination.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “deadlines”, “A.R.S. § 33-1258” ] }, { “question”: “Can my HOA claim they don’t have to provide specific contracts if they are not uploaded to the web portal?”, “short_answer”: “No. If the records exist and aren’t privileged, the HOA must make them available for examination, regardless of whether they are on a portal.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this case, the HOA failed to provide signed vendor contracts that existed, claiming they provided what was on the portal. The ALJ found that failing to provide these specific requested documents constituted a violation.”, “alj_quote”: “Respondent did not assert or establish that any of the requested documents were subject to any of the exceptions provided for in statute. Accordingly, Petitioner was entitled to examine those documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “contracts”, “online portal” ] }, { “question”: “If my CC&Rs require specific insurance liability limits, does an umbrella policy count towards meeting them?”, “short_answer”: “Not necessarily. The ALJ ruled that a base policy lower than the CC&R requirement was non-compliant, even with a large umbrella policy.”, “detailed_answer”: “The CC&Rs required $3,000,000 per occurrence. The HOA had $1,000,000 coverage plus a $50,000,000 umbrella. The ALJ ruled the general liability insurance was not in compliance because the specific base limit was not met.”, “alj_quote”: “While Respondent had an umbrella policy in addition to the general liability insurance, Respondent’s general liability insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “compliance”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Must the HOA insure the building for its full replacement cost?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, if the CC&Rs state the insurance must equal 100% of the current replacement cost.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA obtained an appraisal showing a replacement cost of $73 million but maintained coverage of only $59 million. The ALJ found this violated the CC&Rs requirement for 100% replacement cost coverage.”, “alj_quote”: “Accordingly, Respondent’s property insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs at the time the petition was filed.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “property value”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Will I get my filing fee back if I win the hearing?”, “short_answer”: “The ALJ has the authority to order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee if the petition is granted.”, “detailed_answer”: “After granting the petition and finding the HOA in violation, the judge specifically ordered the respondent to pay back the petitioner’s filing fee.”, “alj_quote”: “IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner his $1,000.00 filing fee.”, “legal_basis”: “Order”, “topic_tags”: [ “remedies”, “filing fees”, “costs” ] }, { “question”: “What happens if I accidentally cite the wrong statute number in my complaint?”, “short_answer”: “It may not be dismissed if the context of your complaint makes it clear what you are disputing.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA tried to dismiss the case because the homeowner cited the Planned Community statute instead of the Condominium statute. The judge denied this because the checkboxes and narrative provided sufficient notice of the claim.”, “alj_quote”: “While it may be true Petitioner hand wrote A.R.S. §33-1805… the context surrounding Petitioner’s hand written statute provides adequate notice.”, “legal_basis”: “Due Process / Notice”, “topic_tags”: [ “procedure”, “complaint forms”, “legal error” ] }, { “question”: “What is the standard of proof I need to meet to win against my HOA?”, “short_answer”: “You must prove your case by a “preponderance of the evidence.””, “detailed_answer”: “The homeowner bears the burden of proof. This standard means showing that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.”, “alj_quote”: “In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 and the Association’s governing documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.A.C. R2-19-119”, “topic_tags”: [ “burden of proof”, “legal standard”, “evidence” ] }, { “question”: “Will the HOA be fined a civil penalty if I prove they violated the law?”, “short_answer”: “Not automatically. The ALJ decides if a penalty is appropriate based on the facts.”, “detailed_answer”: “Even though the HOA was found to have violated record laws and insurance requirements, the judge decided not to assess a civil penalty in this specific instance.”, “alj_quote”: “Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.”, “legal_basis”: “Judicial Discretion”, “topic_tags”: [ “penalties”, “fines”, “enforcement” ] } ] }

{ “case”: { “docket_no”: “24F-H008-REL”, “case_title”: “Keith W. Cunningham v The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC”, “decision_date”: “2024-01-11”, “alj_name”: “Tammy L. Eigenheer”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “agency”: “ADRE” }, “questions”: [ { “question”: “How many days does my HOA have to provide records after I request them?”, “short_answer”: “The HOA has 10 business days to fulfill a request for examination of records.”, “detailed_answer”: “According to Arizona law cited in the decision, an association must make financial and other records reasonably available for examination within ten business days of a member’s request.”, “alj_quote”: “The association shall have ten business days to fulfill a request for examination.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “deadlines”, “A.R.S. § 33-1258” ] }, { “question”: “Can my HOA claim they don’t have to provide specific contracts if they are not uploaded to the web portal?”, “short_answer”: “No. If the records exist and aren’t privileged, the HOA must make them available for examination, regardless of whether they are on a portal.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this case, the HOA failed to provide signed vendor contracts that existed, claiming they provided what was on the portal. The ALJ found that failing to provide these specific requested documents constituted a violation.”, “alj_quote”: “Respondent did not assert or establish that any of the requested documents were subject to any of the exceptions provided for in statute. Accordingly, Petitioner was entitled to examine those documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1258”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “contracts”, “online portal” ] }, { “question”: “If my CC&Rs require specific insurance liability limits, does an umbrella policy count towards meeting them?”, “short_answer”: “Not necessarily. The ALJ ruled that a base policy lower than the CC&R requirement was non-compliant, even with a large umbrella policy.”, “detailed_answer”: “The CC&Rs required $3,000,000 per occurrence. The HOA had $1,000,000 coverage plus a $50,000,000 umbrella. The ALJ ruled the general liability insurance was not in compliance because the specific base limit was not met.”, “alj_quote”: “While Respondent had an umbrella policy in addition to the general liability insurance, Respondent’s general liability insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “compliance”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Must the HOA insure the building for its full replacement cost?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, if the CC&Rs state the insurance must equal 100% of the current replacement cost.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA obtained an appraisal showing a replacement cost of $73 million but maintained coverage of only $59 million. The ALJ found this violated the CC&Rs requirement for 100% replacement cost coverage.”, “alj_quote”: “Accordingly, Respondent’s property insurance was not in compliance with the applicable CC&Rs at the time the petition was filed.”, “legal_basis”: “CC&Rs Section 8.1.1”, “topic_tags”: [ “insurance”, “property value”, “CC&Rs” ] }, { “question”: “Will I get my filing fee back if I win the hearing?”, “short_answer”: “The ALJ has the authority to order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee if the petition is granted.”, “detailed_answer”: “After granting the petition and finding the HOA in violation, the judge specifically ordered the respondent to pay back the petitioner’s filing fee.”, “alj_quote”: “IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner his $1,000.00 filing fee.”, “legal_basis”: “Order”, “topic_tags”: [ “remedies”, “filing fees”, “costs” ] }, { “question”: “What happens if I accidentally cite the wrong statute number in my complaint?”, “short_answer”: “It may not be dismissed if the context of your complaint makes it clear what you are disputing.”, “detailed_answer”: “The HOA tried to dismiss the case because the homeowner cited the Planned Community statute instead of the Condominium statute. The judge denied this because the checkboxes and narrative provided sufficient notice of the claim.”, “alj_quote”: “While it may be true Petitioner hand wrote A.R.S. §33-1805… the context surrounding Petitioner’s hand written statute provides adequate notice.”, “legal_basis”: “Due Process / Notice”, “topic_tags”: [ “procedure”, “complaint forms”, “legal error” ] }, { “question”: “What is the standard of proof I need to meet to win against my HOA?”, “short_answer”: “You must prove your case by a “preponderance of the evidence.””, “detailed_answer”: “The homeowner bears the burden of proof. This standard means showing that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.”, “alj_quote”: “In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 and the Association’s governing documents.”, “legal_basis”: “A.A.C. R2-19-119”, “topic_tags”: [ “burden of proof”, “legal standard”, “evidence” ] }, { “question”: “Will the HOA be fined a civil penalty if I prove they violated the law?”, “short_answer”: “Not automatically. The ALJ decides if a penalty is appropriate based on the facts.”, “detailed_answer”: “Even though the HOA was found to have violated record laws and insurance requirements, the judge decided not to assess a civil penalty in this specific instance.”, “alj_quote”: “Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.”, “legal_basis”: “Judicial Discretion”, “topic_tags”: [ “penalties”, “fines”, “enforcement” ] } ] }

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Keith W. Cunningham (petitioner)

Respondent Side

  • Allison Preston (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter Hazlewood Delgado & Bolen LLP
    Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC
  • Kyle von Johnson (HOA attorney)
    Represented The Residences at 2211 Camelback Condominium Association, INC
  • Mark Teman (board member)
    Association President, witness
  • Allison Renow (property manager)
    First Service Residential
    General Manager (GM) on site
  • Frank Durso (regional manager)
    First Service Residential
  • Jamie George (VP of Insurance)
    First Service Financial
    Assists with association insurance policies
  • Holly McNelte (management staff)
    First Service Residential
    FSR team member who managed documents/files

Neutral Parties

  • Jonathan Henley (insurance broker)
    Gallagher
  • Brian Del Vecchio (ALJ)
    OAH
    Administrative Law Judge who conducted the hearing (12/8/23)
  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
    OAH
    Administrative Law Judge who wrote the decision
  • Susan Nicolson (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate

Other Participants

  • AHansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • vnunez (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • djones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • labril (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • mneat (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • akowaleski (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient
  • gosborn (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Transmission recipient

M&T Properties LLC v. Kivas Uno Homeowners’ Association

Case Summary

Case ID 22F-H2222060-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-09-06
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome The Petitioner prevailed on the singular issue raised: Respondent (HOA) was found to be in violation of Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs for failing to retain a duly licensed property management agent at the time the petition was filed. The HOA was ordered to reimburse the $500 filing fee and comply with the CC&Rs moving forward. No civil penalty was imposed.
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner M&T Properties LLC Counsel Lucas Thomas, Owner
Respondent Kivas Uno Homeowners’ Association Counsel David Rivandi, Director

Alleged Violations

Section 6.7 of the First Amendment to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Condominium and of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Kivas Uno Condominium

Outcome Summary

The Petitioner prevailed on the singular issue raised: Respondent (HOA) was found to be in violation of Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs for failing to retain a duly licensed property management agent at the time the petition was filed. The HOA was ordered to reimburse the $500 filing fee and comply with the CC&Rs moving forward. No civil penalty was imposed.

Key Issues & Findings

Professional Management

Respondent (HOA) acknowledged that as of the date the Petition was filed (June 6, 2022), it did not retain or maintain a Managing Agent who is duly licensed by the State of Arizona as a property manager, which violated Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs.

Orders: Respondent was ordered to reimburse Petitioner the $500.00 filing fee and was directed to comply with the requirements of Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs going forward.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.
  • A.R.S. § 33-1248
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119

Analytics Highlights

Topics: CCNR violation, Property Management, Filing Fee Refund, No Civil Penalty
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.
  • A.R.S. § 33-1248
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

22F-H2222060-REL Decision – 997254.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-25T10:12:09 (87.5 KB)

22F-H2222060-REL Decision – 997254.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:48:47 (87.5 KB)

This summary outlines the proceedings, key arguments, and final decision in the matter of *M&T Properties LLC vs Kivas Uno Homeowners’ Association*, Docket No. 22F-H2222060-REL.

Key Facts and Parties

The hearing took place on August 17, 2022, before Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer (Idier). Petitioner, M&T Properties LLC, filed a petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate (Department) on or about June 6, 2022, alleging that the Respondent, Kivas Uno Homeowners’ Association (a condominium owners’ association in Phoenix, Arizona), was in violation of its governing documents.

Main Legal Issue

The singular issue determined at the hearing was whether the Respondent was in violation of Section 6.7 of the 2003 amendments to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Condominium and of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs). Section 6.7, titled "Professional Management," mandates that the Board "shall at all times retain and maintain a 'Managing Agent,' who is duly licensed by the State of Arizona as a property manager". Petitioner alleged that the HOA was required to have a professional management company but did not.

Hearing Proceedings and Key Arguments

At the outset of the hearing, the Respondent, represented by David Rivandi, Director, acknowledged that as of the date the petition was filed (June 6, 2022), they did not have a contract with a professional management company. By this admission, the Respondent acknowledged they were in violation of the CC&Rs at that specific time.

The Respondent attempted to assert that the Board did not know they were required to have a professional management company and noted that they had since contracted with one. However, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) strictly limited the scope of the hearing, stating that the singular issue raised in the petition had been addressed by the admission of violation. The ALJ specifically noted that the subsequent hiring of a management company did not negate the admitted violation present at the time the petition was filed. Attempts by the parties to raise and discuss numerous unrelated issues were disregarded.

Outcome and Final Decision

Based on the Respondent's admission that it failed to retain and maintain a licensed Managing Agent as required by Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs, the ALJ issued a finding against the Respondent.

The Administrative Law Judge's Order, dated September 6, 2022, provided the following binding conclusions:

  1. The Petitioner’s petition was affirmed.
  2. The Respondent was ordered to reimburse the Petitioner the $500.00 filing fee for the issue on which they prevailed.
  3. The Respondent was directed to comply with the requirements of Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs going forward.
  4. The ALJ found no civil penalty was appropriate in this matter.

Questions

Question

If my HOA fixes a violation after I file a formal complaint, do I still win the case?

Short Answer

Yes. If the violation existed at the time the petition was filed, the homeowner can still prevail.

Detailed Answer

Even if an HOA corrects the issue before the hearing date, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) looks at whether the violation existed at the time the legal action commenced. The homeowner is entitled to a finding in their favor and reimbursement of fees if the violation was active when filed.

Alj Quote

Respondent is asserting that they have since hired a management company. That's great. There's still a admitted violation at the time of the petition which results in the finding against respondent and the requirement to repay the filing fee.

Legal Basis

Admission of violation at time of filing

Topic Tags

  • procedure
  • mootness
  • remedies

Question

Can I bring up new issues during the hearing that I forgot to include in my written petition?

Short Answer

No. The hearing is strictly limited to the issues specifically raised in the original petition.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ will typically refuse to hear arguments regarding issues that were not included in the initial filing. If a homeowner has additional complaints, they must file a separate petition to address them.

Alj Quote

The parties attempted to raise and discuss numerous issues unrelated to the single issue raised in the Petition. … In the event there is a subsequent petition raising other issues that will be dealt dealt with in a separate proceeding.

Legal Basis

Scope of hearing

Topic Tags

  • procedure
  • due process
  • hearing scope

Question

Is the HOA Board allowed to use 'we didn't know' as a defense for violating the CC&Rs?

Short Answer

No. Ignorance of the CC&R requirements is not a valid defense against a violation finding.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the Board asserted they were unaware of the requirement to hire a professional manager. The ALJ noted this assertion but still found them in violation of the CC&Rs.

Alj Quote

Mr. Rivandi asserted the Board did not know they were required to have a professional management company… The failure to retain and maintain a Managing Agent was a violation of Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs.

Legal Basis

Strict liability for CC&R compliance

Topic Tags

  • board defenses
  • compliance
  • fiduciary duty

Question

Can I get my $500 filing fee back if the HOA admits they were wrong?

Short Answer

Yes. If the homeowner prevails on the issue, the ALJ can order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

When a violation is found (or admitted to) regarding the issue raised in the petition, the standard remedy includes ordering the Respondent (HOA) to reimburse the Petitioner for the cost of filing the action.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner its $500.00 filing fee for the issue on which they prevailed.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.

Topic Tags

  • fees
  • reimbursement
  • costs

Question

Will the HOA always be fined a penalty if they are found guilty of a violation?

Short Answer

No. The ALJ has the discretion to decide whether a civil penalty is appropriate based on the facts.

Detailed Answer

Even if a violation is proven, the judge may choose not to impose a civil penalty (fine) against the HOA, potentially if the HOA has already taken steps to correct the issue.

Alj Quote

Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

Judicial discretion on penalties

Topic Tags

  • penalties
  • fines
  • enforcement

Question

What level of proof is required for a homeowner to win an HOA dispute?

Short Answer

Preponderance of the evidence.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) must show that their claim is 'more probable than not' based on the evidence provided. This is the standard burden of proof in these administrative hearings.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1248 and A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • evidence
  • burden of proof
  • legal standards

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222060-REL
Case Title
M&T Properties LLC vs Kivas Uno Homeowners’ Association
Decision Date
2022-09-06
Alj Name
Tammy L. Eigenheer
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Questions

Question

If my HOA fixes a violation after I file a formal complaint, do I still win the case?

Short Answer

Yes. If the violation existed at the time the petition was filed, the homeowner can still prevail.

Detailed Answer

Even if an HOA corrects the issue before the hearing date, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) looks at whether the violation existed at the time the legal action commenced. The homeowner is entitled to a finding in their favor and reimbursement of fees if the violation was active when filed.

Alj Quote

Respondent is asserting that they have since hired a management company. That's great. There's still a admitted violation at the time of the petition which results in the finding against respondent and the requirement to repay the filing fee.

Legal Basis

Admission of violation at time of filing

Topic Tags

  • procedure
  • mootness
  • remedies

Question

Can I bring up new issues during the hearing that I forgot to include in my written petition?

Short Answer

No. The hearing is strictly limited to the issues specifically raised in the original petition.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ will typically refuse to hear arguments regarding issues that were not included in the initial filing. If a homeowner has additional complaints, they must file a separate petition to address them.

Alj Quote

The parties attempted to raise and discuss numerous issues unrelated to the single issue raised in the Petition. … In the event there is a subsequent petition raising other issues that will be dealt dealt with in a separate proceeding.

Legal Basis

Scope of hearing

Topic Tags

  • procedure
  • due process
  • hearing scope

Question

Is the HOA Board allowed to use 'we didn't know' as a defense for violating the CC&Rs?

Short Answer

No. Ignorance of the CC&R requirements is not a valid defense against a violation finding.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the Board asserted they were unaware of the requirement to hire a professional manager. The ALJ noted this assertion but still found them in violation of the CC&Rs.

Alj Quote

Mr. Rivandi asserted the Board did not know they were required to have a professional management company… The failure to retain and maintain a Managing Agent was a violation of Section 6.7 of the CC&Rs.

Legal Basis

Strict liability for CC&R compliance

Topic Tags

  • board defenses
  • compliance
  • fiduciary duty

Question

Can I get my $500 filing fee back if the HOA admits they were wrong?

Short Answer

Yes. If the homeowner prevails on the issue, the ALJ can order the HOA to reimburse the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

When a violation is found (or admitted to) regarding the issue raised in the petition, the standard remedy includes ordering the Respondent (HOA) to reimburse the Petitioner for the cost of filing the action.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner its $500.00 filing fee for the issue on which they prevailed.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.

Topic Tags

  • fees
  • reimbursement
  • costs

Question

Will the HOA always be fined a penalty if they are found guilty of a violation?

Short Answer

No. The ALJ has the discretion to decide whether a civil penalty is appropriate based on the facts.

Detailed Answer

Even if a violation is proven, the judge may choose not to impose a civil penalty (fine) against the HOA, potentially if the HOA has already taken steps to correct the issue.

Alj Quote

Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

Judicial discretion on penalties

Topic Tags

  • penalties
  • fines
  • enforcement

Question

What level of proof is required for a homeowner to win an HOA dispute?

Short Answer

Preponderance of the evidence.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) must show that their claim is 'more probable than not' based on the evidence provided. This is the standard burden of proof in these administrative hearings.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1248 and A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • evidence
  • burden of proof
  • legal standards

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222060-REL
Case Title
M&T Properties LLC vs Kivas Uno Homeowners’ Association
Decision Date
2022-09-06
Alj Name
Tammy L. Eigenheer
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Lucas Thomas (Petitioner Representative)
    M&T Properties LLC
    Owner, appeared on behalf of Petitioner.

Respondent Side

  • David Rivandi (Board Member/Respondent Representative)
    Kivas Uno Homeowners’ Association
    Director, appeared on behalf of Respondent. Confirmed being on the board of directors.

Neutral Parties

  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
    OAH
    Also referred to as Tammy Idier, Administrative Law Judge.
  • Louis Dettorre (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Miranda Alvarez (Legal Secretary)
    Transmitted the order.

Roberta J Stevenson-McDemott v. Four Palms Homeowners

Case Summary

Case ID 22F-H2222033-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2022-07-08
Administrative Law Judge Adam D. Stone
Outcome The petition was denied because the Petitioner failed to meet her burden of proving a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258, as she had not made a proper written request for the documents since 2019, as required by the statute.
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Roberta J Stevenson-McDermott Counsel
Respondent Four Palms Homeowners Counsel Araceli Rodriguez

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Outcome Summary

The petition was denied because the Petitioner failed to meet her burden of proving a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258, as she had not made a proper written request for the documents since 2019, as required by the statute.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to make a request for records in writing as required by A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Key Issues & Findings

Access to Association Financial and Other Records

Petitioner alleged the HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by denying her access and copies of various financial records dating back to 2016. The HOA argued they provided financial summaries and offered in-person review, noting Petitioner failed to make a proper written request.

Orders: Petition denied. Respondent is directed to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward upon a proper written request from Petitioner.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 33-1248
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.

Analytics Highlights

Topics: Financial Records, Written Request Requirement, HOA Governance, Condominium Act
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 33-1248
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

22F-H2222033-REL Decision – 967350.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:47:58 (46.5 KB)

22F-H2222033-REL Decision – 982397.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:48:03 (99.3 KB)

22F-H2222033-REL Decision – 967350.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:45:19 (46.5 KB)

22F-H2222033-REL Decision – 982397.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:45:21 (99.3 KB)

The hearing for the case of Roberta J. Stevenson-McDermott vs. Four Palms Homeowners (No. 22F-H2222033-REL) took place on June 27, 2022, before Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Adam D. Stone of the Office of Administrative Hearings.

Key Facts and Main Issues

The dispute arose from the Petitioner’s allegation that the Respondent, Four Palms Homeowners Association (HOA), violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 concerning the disclosure of association financial and other records. Petitioner, a condominium unit owner, sought various financial documents from 2016 to the present, including yearly audit reports, budgets, 1099s, and bank statements, alleging increasing lack of transparency. The Petitioner testified that she had been denied the ability to review official records and that the Treasurer frequently made excuses as to why she could not view them.

Hearing Proceedings and Key Arguments

Petitioner Roberta J. Stevenson-McDermott appeared on her own behalf. She argued that as an owner, she was entitled to copies of these documents, and bank statements should be provided unless HOA and personal funds were co-mingled.

Respondent Four Palms Homeowners, represented by Araceli Rodriguez, Esq., maintained that the HOA had complied with its statutory duties. The Treasurer, Mario Selinas, testified that financial summaries (such as cash flow and income statements generated by the HOA software "Buildium") were provided to Petitioner upon request. Respondent argued that the full bank statements were withheld from distribution due to privacy concerns, specifically the potential for harassment of delinquent unit owners or the accidental disclosure of personal financial records, which is an exception carved out in A.R.S. § 33-1258(B).

Most Important Legal Points

The most critical legal point revolved around the interpretation and application of A.R.S. § 33-1258, which requires that financial records be made available for examination upon a request made in writing. Respondent contended that although the Petitioner had made verbal requests during meetings, she had never submitted a request in writing for the bank statements to the Treasurer. Respondent further noted that the HOA had offered Petitioner the opportunity to *examine* the bank statements in person, as permitted by the statute, but she failed to follow through.

Final Decision and Outcome

The ALJ issued a decision on July 8, 2022, finding that the Petitioner bore the burden of proving a violation by a preponderance of the evidence. The ALJ concluded that the Petitioner failed to establish that she was denied access to the financial records because she had not made the proper written request required by A.R.S. § 33-1258.

The Petitioner’s petition was therefore denied. The ALJ, however, issued a directive that the Respondent is ordered to comply with the requirements of A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward, contingent upon receiving a proper written request from the Petitioner.

Questions

Question

Must I submit my request for HOA financial records in writing?

Short Answer

Yes, the statute explicitly requires that requests for examination of records be made in writing.

Detailed Answer

The Administrative Law Judge ruled against the homeowner partly because she failed to provide evidence of a written request. The decision emphasizes that the governing statute requires requests for examination to be in writing to be valid and enforceable.

Alj Quote

A.R.S. § 33-1258 requires that association documents, with certain identified exceptions, 'shall be made reasonably available for examination by any member…in writing'.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Topic Tags

  • records request
  • procedural requirements

Question

Do I have the right to look through all HOA documents whenever I want?

Short Answer

No, homeowners do not have an unlimited right to peruse all association documents at will.

Detailed Answer

While the law requires records to be reasonably available, it does not grant an unfettered right to browse all documents. Specific procedures must be followed, and certain documents may be withheld.

Alj Quote

Nothing in the statute however, grants a condominium unit owner the right to peruse all of the association’s documents at will as some documents may properly be withheld.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Topic Tags

  • homeowner rights
  • limitations

Question

What happens if I cannot prove I sent a written request for records?

Short Answer

Your petition may be denied for failing to meet the burden of proof.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the homeowner claimed she was denied access, but the judge found she failed to establish a denial because the preponderance of the evidence showed she had not made the required written request.

Alj Quote

Further, the preponderance of the evidence showed that she has failed to make any such request in writing as the statute requires. … Therefore, at this time, Petitioner failed to establish that she was denied access to the financial records.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • evidence

Question

Can the HOA charge me for copies of records?

Short Answer

Yes, the HOA is allowed to charge a fee for copies.

Detailed Answer

The statute permits the association to charge a fee per page for making copies of requested records, provided the request is for the purchase of copies.

Alj Quote

An association may charge a fee for making copies of not more than fifteen cents per page.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Topic Tags

  • fees
  • copies

Question

Is the HOA allowed to withhold certain records from me?

Short Answer

Yes, specific categories of records, such as personal or privileged information, may be withheld.

Detailed Answer

The decision outlines statutory exceptions where books and records can be withheld, including privileged attorney communications, pending litigation, and personal financial or health records of individual members or employees.

Alj Quote

Books and records kept by or on behalf of the association and the board may be withheld from disclosure to the extent that the portion withheld relates to any of the following: … Personal, health or financial records of an individual member of the association…

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(B)

Topic Tags

  • privacy
  • exemptions

Question

How long does the HOA have to fulfill my request for records?

Short Answer

The HOA has ten business days to fulfill a request for examination or to provide copies.

Detailed Answer

The statute mandates a ten-business-day timeframe for the association to comply with a written request for either examining records or purchasing copies.

Alj Quote

The association shall have ten business days to fulfill a request for examination. … On request for purchase of copies … the association shall have ten business days to provide copies of the requested records.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Topic Tags

  • timelines
  • deadlines

Question

Who is responsible for proving that the HOA violated the law?

Short Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) bears the burden of proof.

Detailed Answer

In an administrative hearing, it is the petitioner's responsibility to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the HOA violated the specific statute.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • legal standards

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222033-REL
Case Title
Roberta J Stevenson-McDermott vs. Four Palms Homeowners
Decision Date
2022-07-08
Alj Name
Adam D. Stone
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Questions

Question

Must I submit my request for HOA financial records in writing?

Short Answer

Yes, the statute explicitly requires that requests for examination of records be made in writing.

Detailed Answer

The Administrative Law Judge ruled against the homeowner partly because she failed to provide evidence of a written request. The decision emphasizes that the governing statute requires requests for examination to be in writing to be valid and enforceable.

Alj Quote

A.R.S. § 33-1258 requires that association documents, with certain identified exceptions, 'shall be made reasonably available for examination by any member…in writing'.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Topic Tags

  • records request
  • procedural requirements

Question

Do I have the right to look through all HOA documents whenever I want?

Short Answer

No, homeowners do not have an unlimited right to peruse all association documents at will.

Detailed Answer

While the law requires records to be reasonably available, it does not grant an unfettered right to browse all documents. Specific procedures must be followed, and certain documents may be withheld.

Alj Quote

Nothing in the statute however, grants a condominium unit owner the right to peruse all of the association’s documents at will as some documents may properly be withheld.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Topic Tags

  • homeowner rights
  • limitations

Question

What happens if I cannot prove I sent a written request for records?

Short Answer

Your petition may be denied for failing to meet the burden of proof.

Detailed Answer

In this case, the homeowner claimed she was denied access, but the judge found she failed to establish a denial because the preponderance of the evidence showed she had not made the required written request.

Alj Quote

Further, the preponderance of the evidence showed that she has failed to make any such request in writing as the statute requires. … Therefore, at this time, Petitioner failed to establish that she was denied access to the financial records.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • evidence

Question

Can the HOA charge me for copies of records?

Short Answer

Yes, the HOA is allowed to charge a fee for copies.

Detailed Answer

The statute permits the association to charge a fee per page for making copies of requested records, provided the request is for the purchase of copies.

Alj Quote

An association may charge a fee for making copies of not more than fifteen cents per page.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Topic Tags

  • fees
  • copies

Question

Is the HOA allowed to withhold certain records from me?

Short Answer

Yes, specific categories of records, such as personal or privileged information, may be withheld.

Detailed Answer

The decision outlines statutory exceptions where books and records can be withheld, including privileged attorney communications, pending litigation, and personal financial or health records of individual members or employees.

Alj Quote

Books and records kept by or on behalf of the association and the board may be withheld from disclosure to the extent that the portion withheld relates to any of the following: … Personal, health or financial records of an individual member of the association…

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(B)

Topic Tags

  • privacy
  • exemptions

Question

How long does the HOA have to fulfill my request for records?

Short Answer

The HOA has ten business days to fulfill a request for examination or to provide copies.

Detailed Answer

The statute mandates a ten-business-day timeframe for the association to comply with a written request for either examining records or purchasing copies.

Alj Quote

The association shall have ten business days to fulfill a request for examination. … On request for purchase of copies … the association shall have ten business days to provide copies of the requested records.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Topic Tags

  • timelines
  • deadlines

Question

Who is responsible for proving that the HOA violated the law?

Short Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) bears the burden of proof.

Detailed Answer

In an administrative hearing, it is the petitioner's responsibility to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the HOA violated the specific statute.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • burden of proof
  • legal standards

Case

Docket No
22F-H2222033-REL
Case Title
Roberta J Stevenson-McDermott vs. Four Palms Homeowners
Decision Date
2022-07-08
Alj Name
Adam D. Stone
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Roberta J Stevenson-McDermott (petitioner)
  • Sean Embry (owner/witness)
    Provided letter of support (not admitted as evidence)
  • Lenor Embry (owner/witness)
    Provided letter of support (not admitted as evidence)
  • Philip Smith (owner/witness)
    Provided letter of support (not admitted as evidence)
  • c. serrano (clerical staff)
    Transmitted document for Petitioner

Respondent Side

  • Araceli Rodriguez (HOA attorney)
    Yuma Law Firm (inferred)
    Represented Four Palms Homeowners Association
  • Faye Burson (board member)
    Four Palms Homeowners HOA
    Vice President and witness (also listed as FA Buren)
  • Mario Salinas (board member)
    Four Palms Homeowners HOA
    Treasurer and witness (also listed as Mario Selenus)
  • Gilbert Sto (board member)
    Four Palms Homeowners HOA
    President
  • Lesie Blessing (board member)
    Four Palms Homeowners HOA
    Vice President (2016 board) and Secretary (current board)
  • Gail Hall (board member)
    Four Palms Homeowners HOA
    Fifth member
  • Linia Ohn (former board member)
    Four Palms Homeowners HOA
    Received payments in 2018 (also listed as Lenia own)
  • Scott Hoser (former board member)
    Four Palms Homeowners HOA
    Fifth member (2016 board)

Neutral Parties

  • Adam D. Stone (ALJ)
    OAH
  • Louis Dettorre (ADRE Commissioner)
    ADRE
  • Miranda Alvarez (Legal Secretary)
    ADRE
    Transmitted decision

Other Participants

  • Lisa Bon (former board member/owner)
    Secretary (2016 board); provided letter of support to Petitioner

Jeffrey D Points v. Olive 66 Condominium Association

Case Summary

Case ID 21F-H2121059-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2021-09-08
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome The Petitioner’s petition was affirmed in part (violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258 regarding documents) and denied in part (no violation of A.R.S. § 33-1248 regarding open meetings). Respondent was ordered to reimburse $500.00 of the filing fee and comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258.
Filing Fees Refunded $1,000.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Jeffrey D Points Counsel
Respondent Olive 66 Condominium Association Counsel MacKenzie Hill

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258
A.R.S. § 33-1248

Outcome Summary

The Petitioner’s petition was affirmed in part (violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258 regarding documents) and denied in part (no violation of A.R.S. § 33-1248 regarding open meetings). Respondent was ordered to reimburse $500.00 of the filing fee and comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to prove the violation of A.R.S. § 33-1248 because evidence of improper notice was lacking and the topic discussed in executive session was likely covered by a statutory exemption.

Key Issues & Findings

Access to Association Records

Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by failing to provide certain requested 2021 invoices that were in existence at the time of the request within the statutory 10-day period.

Orders: Respondent must comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward. Petitioner reimbursed $500.00 filing fee.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 33-1805

Open Board Meetings

Petitioner failed to establish a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1248 regarding the March 25, 2021, board meeting, as the issue regarding notice was not established and the topic discussed (Landscaping Bid Review) likely fell under a statutory exemption.

Orders: Petitioner failed to establish the alleged violation of A.R.S. § 33-1248.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: petitioner_loss

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1248
  • A.R.S. § 33-1804

Analytics Highlights

Topics: condominium association, document request, open meeting, executive session, invoices, filing fee refund
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1248
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 33-1804
  • A.R.S. § 33-1805
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

21F-H2121059-REL Decision – 909631.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:37:01 (47.7 KB)

21F-H2121059-REL Decision – 909633.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:37:11 (117.7 KB)

21F-H2121059-REL Decision – 909631.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:38:43 (47.7 KB)

21F-H2121059-REL Decision – 909633.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:38:48 (117.7 KB)

This decision arises from the administrative hearing in the matter of *Jeffrey D Points v. Olive 66 Condominium Association*. The hearing, held on August 19, 2021, before Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer, addressed allegations that the Olive 66 Condominium Association (Respondent) violated Arizona statutes concerning document availability and open meetings.

Key Facts and Legal Framework

The Respondent is a condominium unit owners’ association located in Phoenix, Arizona. The Petitioner, Jeffrey D. Points, alleged violations, initially citing homeowner association (HOA) statutes (A.R.S. §§ 33-1804 and 33-1805). Due to the Respondent’s status, the legal focus shifted to the corresponding condominium statutes: A.R.S. § 33-1248 (meetings) and A.R.S. § 33-1258 (records). Petitioner bore the burden of proving violations by a preponderance of the evidence.

Main Issues and Arguments

The dispute centered on two key issues:

  1. Improper Executive Session (A.R.S. § 33-1248): Petitioner challenged the use of a closed session during the March 25, 2021, Board Meeting, specifically regarding the Landscaping Bid Review. The statute allows meetings to be closed for matters relating to the job performance of or specific complaints against an individual employee of a contractor. Respondent’s witness testified that the review addressed specific performance issues with a landscaping company employee.
  2. Failure to Produce Documents (A.R.S. § 33-1258): Petitioner made numerous requests for association records, including invoices and 1099s. The statute requires financial and other non-privileged records to be made reasonably available within ten business days of a request. Petitioner also asserted a right to examine *all* association documents in person at the office. Respondent argued that allowing unlimited in-person review was unduly burdensome due to the need to remove confidential documents and ongoing COVID-19 concerns.

Legal Conclusions and Outcome

The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) reached the following conclusions of law:

  • Closed Session (A.R.S. § 33-1248): The ALJ found that the Respondent properly considered the landscaping issue in executive session because it fell under the statutory exception concerning the job performance of an individual contractor employee. Petitioner failed to establish that the meeting notice was improper or that the executive session violated A.R.S. § 33-1248.
  • Document Production (A.R.S. § 33-1258): The ALJ rejected Petitioner’s assertion of a right to examine all documents in person. However, Respondent’s counsel acknowledged that certain requested 2021 invoices were in existence at the time of the request but were not provided to the Petitioner within the required 10-day statutory period. This failure constituted a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258.

The Final Decision

The Petitioner’s petition was affirmed in part and denied in part. Although a violation of the document production statute (A.R.S. § 33-1258) was established, the ALJ found that no civil penalty was appropriate.

The Order required the following remedy:

  1. Respondent must reimburse Petitioner $500.00 of the filing fee for the issue on which the Petitioner prevailed.
  2. Respondent is directed to comply with the requirements of A.R.S. § 33-1258 going forward.

Questions

Question

Can I demand to inspect every single HOA document in person at the management office?

Short Answer

No. While records must be reasonably available, you do not have the right to peruse all documents at will.

Detailed Answer

The Administrative Law Judge ruled that the statute requiring records be 'reasonably available' does not grant an unlimited right to inspect all documents in person. The HOA can withhold certain confidential documents, and sorting through everything to remove them may be considered unduly burdensome.

Alj Quote

Nothing in the statute however, grants a condominium unit owner the right to peruse all of the association’s documents at will as some documents may properly be withheld.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Topic Tags

  • Records Request
  • Inspection Rights

Question

Is it a violation if the HOA fails to provide requested invoices within 10 days?

Short Answer

Yes. If the documents exist and are not provided within the statutory timeframe, it is a violation.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ found the Association in violation of the law because they acknowledged that requested invoices existed at the time of the request but were not provided to the homeowner.

Alj Quote

Respondent’s witness acknowledged that certain invoices requested by Petitioner were in existence at the time of the request, but were not provided to Petitioner. Such a failure to provide the documents requested was a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Topic Tags

  • Records Request
  • Invoices
  • Timeliness

Question

Can the HOA Board discuss vendor contracts or issues in a closed executive session?

Short Answer

Yes, if the discussion involves specific complaints or performance issues regarding an individual employee of the contractor.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ruled that a 'Landscaping Bid Review' was properly held in executive session because the testimony indicated it involved specific performance issues with an employee of the landscaping company.

Alj Quote

Respondent’s witness asserted that the issue regarding the landscaping bid review was a specific performance issue with an employee of the landscaping company. As that topic falls under the exception listed in A.R.S. § 33-1248(A)(4), Respondent properly considered the issue in an executive session closed to its members.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1248(A)(4)

Topic Tags

  • Open Meetings
  • Executive Session
  • Vendors

Question

Will the HOA be fined if they are found to have violated records request laws?

Short Answer

Not necessarily. The ALJ has discretion regarding civil penalties.

Detailed Answer

In this case, even though a violation was found regarding the failure to provide invoices, the judge decided that no civil penalty was appropriate based on the facts presented.

Alj Quote

Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

Administrative Discretion

Topic Tags

  • Penalties
  • Enforcement

Question

Who has the burden of proof in a dispute with the HOA?

Short Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) must prove the violation by a preponderance of the evidence.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner is responsible for providing evidence that outweighs the evidence offered by the HOA. If the homeowner fails to provide sufficient evidence (such as proof of when a meeting agenda was issued), the claim will likely fail.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1248 and A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • Legal Standards
  • Burden of Proof

Question

Can I get my filing fee reimbursed if I win?

Short Answer

Yes, typically for the portion of the case on which you prevail.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ordered the Association to reimburse the homeowner $500.00, which represented the filing fee for the specific issue (records request) where the homeowner won.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner their $500.00 filing fee for the issue on which they prevailed.

Legal Basis

Order

Topic Tags

  • Remedies
  • Fees

Question

What if I suspect the HOA altered a document they sent me?

Short Answer

You must provide proof. Mere assertion is not enough.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner claimed a landscaping contract was altered but provided no evidence. The ALJ ruled that an assertion without merit cannot be the basis for finding a violation.

Alj Quote

Petitioner’s assertion that the landscaping contract was altered in some way is completely without merit and cannot be the basis for a finding that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

Evidence

Topic Tags

  • Evidence
  • Fraud Allegations

Question

Do Open Meeting laws apply to Condominium Associations?

Short Answer

Yes, under A.R.S. § 33-1248.

Detailed Answer

Although the homeowner originally cited the Planned Community statutes (A.R.S. § 33-1804), the hearing proceeded under the correct Condominium statutes (A.R.S. § 33-1248), which contain similar open meeting requirements.

Alj Quote

After discussion, the hearing proceeded with the understanding that the statutes applicable to the instant matter were A.R.S. § 33-1248… and A.R.S. § 33-1258…

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1248

Topic Tags

  • Jurisdiction
  • Condos vs HOAs

Case

Docket No
21F-H2121059-REL
Case Title
Jeffrey D Points vs. Olive 66 Condominium Association
Decision Date
2021-09-08
Alj Name
Tammy L. Eigenheer
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Questions

Question

Can I demand to inspect every single HOA document in person at the management office?

Short Answer

No. While records must be reasonably available, you do not have the right to peruse all documents at will.

Detailed Answer

The Administrative Law Judge ruled that the statute requiring records be 'reasonably available' does not grant an unlimited right to inspect all documents in person. The HOA can withhold certain confidential documents, and sorting through everything to remove them may be considered unduly burdensome.

Alj Quote

Nothing in the statute however, grants a condominium unit owner the right to peruse all of the association’s documents at will as some documents may properly be withheld.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Topic Tags

  • Records Request
  • Inspection Rights

Question

Is it a violation if the HOA fails to provide requested invoices within 10 days?

Short Answer

Yes. If the documents exist and are not provided within the statutory timeframe, it is a violation.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ found the Association in violation of the law because they acknowledged that requested invoices existed at the time of the request but were not provided to the homeowner.

Alj Quote

Respondent’s witness acknowledged that certain invoices requested by Petitioner were in existence at the time of the request, but were not provided to Petitioner. Such a failure to provide the documents requested was a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Topic Tags

  • Records Request
  • Invoices
  • Timeliness

Question

Can the HOA Board discuss vendor contracts or issues in a closed executive session?

Short Answer

Yes, if the discussion involves specific complaints or performance issues regarding an individual employee of the contractor.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ruled that a 'Landscaping Bid Review' was properly held in executive session because the testimony indicated it involved specific performance issues with an employee of the landscaping company.

Alj Quote

Respondent’s witness asserted that the issue regarding the landscaping bid review was a specific performance issue with an employee of the landscaping company. As that topic falls under the exception listed in A.R.S. § 33-1248(A)(4), Respondent properly considered the issue in an executive session closed to its members.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1248(A)(4)

Topic Tags

  • Open Meetings
  • Executive Session
  • Vendors

Question

Will the HOA be fined if they are found to have violated records request laws?

Short Answer

Not necessarily. The ALJ has discretion regarding civil penalties.

Detailed Answer

In this case, even though a violation was found regarding the failure to provide invoices, the judge decided that no civil penalty was appropriate based on the facts presented.

Alj Quote

Based on the facts presented, the Administrative Law Judge finds no civil penalty is appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

Administrative Discretion

Topic Tags

  • Penalties
  • Enforcement

Question

Who has the burden of proof in a dispute with the HOA?

Short Answer

The homeowner (Petitioner) must prove the violation by a preponderance of the evidence.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner is responsible for providing evidence that outweighs the evidence offered by the HOA. If the homeowner fails to provide sufficient evidence (such as proof of when a meeting agenda was issued), the claim will likely fail.

Alj Quote

In this proceeding, Petitioner bears the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1248 and A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

A.A.C. R2-19-119

Topic Tags

  • Legal Standards
  • Burden of Proof

Question

Can I get my filing fee reimbursed if I win?

Short Answer

Yes, typically for the portion of the case on which you prevail.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ ordered the Association to reimburse the homeowner $500.00, which represented the filing fee for the specific issue (records request) where the homeowner won.

Alj Quote

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Respondent reimburse Petitioner their $500.00 filing fee for the issue on which they prevailed.

Legal Basis

Order

Topic Tags

  • Remedies
  • Fees

Question

What if I suspect the HOA altered a document they sent me?

Short Answer

You must provide proof. Mere assertion is not enough.

Detailed Answer

The homeowner claimed a landscaping contract was altered but provided no evidence. The ALJ ruled that an assertion without merit cannot be the basis for finding a violation.

Alj Quote

Petitioner’s assertion that the landscaping contract was altered in some way is completely without merit and cannot be the basis for a finding that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258.

Legal Basis

Evidence

Topic Tags

  • Evidence
  • Fraud Allegations

Question

Do Open Meeting laws apply to Condominium Associations?

Short Answer

Yes, under A.R.S. § 33-1248.

Detailed Answer

Although the homeowner originally cited the Planned Community statutes (A.R.S. § 33-1804), the hearing proceeded under the correct Condominium statutes (A.R.S. § 33-1248), which contain similar open meeting requirements.

Alj Quote

After discussion, the hearing proceeded with the understanding that the statutes applicable to the instant matter were A.R.S. § 33-1248… and A.R.S. § 33-1258…

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1248

Topic Tags

  • Jurisdiction
  • Condos vs HOAs

Case

Docket No
21F-H2121059-REL
Case Title
Jeffrey D Points vs. Olive 66 Condominium Association
Decision Date
2021-09-08
Alj Name
Tammy L. Eigenheer
Tribunal
OAH
Agency
ADRE

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Jeffrey D Points (petitioner)
    Appeared on their own behalf

Respondent Side

  • MacKenzie Hill (respondent attorney)
    The Brown Law Group, PLLC
    Represented Olive 66 Condominium Association
  • Nathan Tennyson (respondent attorney)
    Represented Olive 66 Condominium Association
  • Cathy Hacker (association manager)
    Olive 66 Condominium Association
    Provided testimony as Association Manager,
  • Musa (individual/contractor)
    Mentioned regarding 1099s and invoices; referred to as 'Musa', and 'M. Sayegh'
  • Lorinda Brown (individual/contractor)
    Mentioned regarding 1099s and invoices

Neutral Parties

  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Judy Lowe (ADRE Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate

Other Participants

  • Tim (individual)
    Mentioned regarding 1099s/invoices; reportedly 'has not done any work on the property',

Nancy L Babington v. Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation

Case Summary

Case ID 20F-H2020064-REL-RHG
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2021-03-24
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome full
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $2,500.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Nancy L. Babington Counsel
Respondent Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation Counsel Mark K. Sahl and Scott B. Carpenter

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Outcome Summary

Following a rehearing based on newly discovered evidence, the Administrative Law Judge found that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) by failing to timely provide records it possessed. Respondent was ordered to reimburse the Petitioner $500.00 for the filing fee and pay a $2,500.00 civil penalty to the Department of Real Estate.

Key Issues & Findings

Failure to make association financial and other records reasonably available for examination/provide copies within ten business days.

Petitioner alleged Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258 by failing to provide requested records (including bank statements and contracts) following a formal request on May 1, 2020. The Administrative Law Judge, in the rehearing, found that the evidence showed Respondent was in possession of bank statements and two signed contracts at the time of the request, contradicting prior testimony, thereby establishing a violation of the statute.

Orders: Respondent was ordered to pay Petitioner $500.00 for the filing fee reimbursement and pay a civil penalty of $2,500.00 to the Department of Real Estate, both payments due within 30 days.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes, Civil penalty: $2,500.00

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199.02
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA records request, A.R.S. 33-1258, Rehearing, Civil Penalty, Possession of Records
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199.02
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

20F-H2020064-REL Decision – 866802.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:28:35 (123.5 KB)

20F-H2020064-REL Decision – 823263.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:28:38 (108.6 KB)

Briefing Document: Babington v. Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the findings from two administrative hearings concerning a records request dispute between homeowner Nancy L. Babington (Petitioner) and the Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation (Respondent). The case, No. 20F-H2020064-REL, culminated in a reversal of an initial ruling, finding the Respondent in violation of Arizona law A.R.S. § 33-1258 for failing to provide association records within the statutory timeframe.

The initial hearing on August 28, 2020, resulted in a denial of the petition. The Respondent successfully argued that it could not produce the requested documents because they were not in its possession, largely due to a dispute with a former management company. However, a rehearing was granted after the Petitioner discovered new evidence.

The rehearing on March 4, 2021, established that the Respondent, through its management company Associa Arizona, was in possession of key requested documents—specifically bank statements and signed contracts—at the time of the initial request. Evidence revealed the bank statements were held at a central corporate office in Texas and were not retrieved, while signed contracts had not been forwarded to the management company by board members. The Administrative Law Judge found this directly contradicted the Respondent’s initial defense.

As a result, the Administrative Law Judge reversed the earlier decision, ordering the Respondent to reimburse the Petitioner’s $500 filing fee and imposing a $2,500 civil penalty payable to the Arizona Department of Real Estate. The case underscores an association’s responsibility to produce all records in its possession, regardless of physical location within the corporate structure, and affirms the court’s authority to levy penalties for violations.

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1. Case Overview

Case Number: 20F-H2020064-REL

Petitioner: Nancy L. Babington

Respondent: Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation

Core Allegation: Violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258, which mandates that a condominium owners’ association must make its financial and other records reasonably available for examination by a member within ten business days of a request.

Hearings Conducted:

◦ Initial Hearing: August 28, 2020

◦ Rehearing: March 4, 2021

Presiding Administrative Law Judge: Tammy L. Eigenheer

2. Chronology of the Dispute

The dispute originated from difficulties following a change in the Respondent’s management company and subsequent records requests by the Petitioner.

June-July 2019: The previous management company, Community Management & Consulting, LLC (CMC), terminated its agreement with the Respondent. A “financial disagreement” led to CMC withholding records, complicating the transition.

Post-July 2019: Respondent hired Associa Arizona as its new management company. Associa and the Respondent’s counsel attempted to obtain the withheld records from CMC.

April 29, 2020: After previous attempts to get information, Petitioner Nancy L. Babington sent a formal email to Associa and the Respondent’s Board of Directors. In the email, she stated:

May 1, 2020: Linda Parker, Director of Client Services with Associa, replied, stating the request was not specific and asked the Petitioner to identify the exact records needed.

May 1, 2020: The Petitioner responded with a detailed list of nine specific items:

1. All bank statements with copies of cancelled checks since Sept 1, 2019.

2. Any and all financial statements since Sept 1, 2019.

3. Any and all 1099s issued for 2019.

4. Any and all Executive Session meeting minutes conducted in 2020 (excluding statutory exemptions).

5. Any and all contracts signed in 2020.

6. Any and all outstanding invoices with a due date over 45 days.

7. Any documentation regarding the legality of the $204.75 maintenance fee.

8. Any proof of Stephen Silberschlag’s liability insurance.

9. Any landscaping plans.

May 4, 2020: Ms. Parker from Associa responded that the company could only provide records within its possession.

May 15, 2020: Following another email from the Petitioner, Ms. Parker stated that Associa had scheduled a meeting with the board on May 20 to discuss the request further.

May 28, 2020: Having not received any of the requested documents, the Petitioner filed a petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate.

3. The Initial Hearing and Decision (August – September 2020)

The first hearing focused on whether the Respondent had violated the statute by failing to produce the documents.

• The Respondent argued that it was unable to provide documents that were not in its possession.

• Joseph Silberschlag, Secretary of the Board of Directors, testified that issues with the former management company (CMC) meant neither the Respondent nor Associa had possession of many necessary documents.

• Specifically, he stated that without previous financial documents and starting balances from CMC, the association was unable to create current financial statements.

• The Respondent maintained it was under no statutory obligation to create documents to fulfill the Petitioner’s request.

• The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) concluded that the Petitioner “failed to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258(A).”

• The finding was based on the Respondent’s argument that it did not possess the requested documents at the time of the request.

• On September 17, 2020, the ALJ issued a decision denying the Petitioner’s petition.

4. The Rehearing and Reversal (March 2021)

Following the initial decision, the case was reopened based on new evidence presented by the Petitioner.

• After the September 2020 decision, the Respondent provided some of the requested documents to the Petitioner.

• Upon reviewing these documents, the Petitioner realized that the Respondent had, in fact, been in possession of several key records prior to her May 1, 2020 request.

• She filed a Rehearing Request with the Department of Real Estate, citing “newly discovered material evidence that could not with reasonable diligence have been discovered and produced at the original hearing.” The request was granted.

The rehearing revealed crucial details about the location and accessibility of the requested records.

Record Type

Petitioner’s Evidence

Respondent’s Testimony/Explanation

Bank Statements

The documents received post-hearing showed that bank statements had been sent to Associa starting in August 2019.

Evelyn Shanley, Community Director for Associa, testified that statements for all HOAs were sent to a central office in Richardson, Texas. She admitted she did not contact the Texas office to obtain the statements for the Petitioner’s request. Counsel for the Respondent conceded the statements in Texas were in the possession of Associa.

Contracts

Petitioner presented two contracts signed by Board members on March 27 and March 31, 2020, prior to her request.

Ms. Shanley admitted the two signed contracts existed but stated that the Board of Directors members had not provided them to Associa.

1099 Forms

Petitioner noted a document indicating four vendors were eligible for 1099s.

Ms. Shanley denied that any 1099s had been issued.

• The documents were not in the “immediate possession” of the local Associa office.

• The matter was now moot because the Petitioner had received all requested documents.

• A civil penalty was inappropriate because the Petitioner did not specifically request one on her initial petition form.

• The evidence presented at the rehearing was “directly contradictory” to the representations made by the Respondent at the initial hearing.

• The Petitioner successfully established by a preponderance of the evidence that the Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) by failing to provide documents (bank statements and contracts) that were in its possession.

• The ALJ rejected the Respondent’s argument against a civil penalty, stating that the plain language of A.R.S. § 32-2199.02 allows the judge to levy a penalty for established violations, and “nothing in the statute limits the available remedies to those specifically requested by a petitioner.”

5. Final Order and Penalties

The Administrative Law Judge Decision issued on March 24, 2021, reversed the initial finding and imposed penalties on the Respondent.

IT IS ORDERED that:

1. Respondent must pay the Petitioner her filing fee of $500.00 within 30 days.

2. Respondent must pay to the Department of Real Estate a civil penalty in the amount of $2,500.00 within 30 days.

Study Guide: Babington v. Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation

This study guide provides a review of the administrative case involving Petitioner Nancy L. Babington and Respondent Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation. It includes a short-answer quiz to test factual recall, a separate answer key, a set of essay questions for deeper analysis, and a glossary of key terms and entities involved in the proceedings.

Short-Answer Quiz

Answer each question in 2-3 sentences based on the information provided in the case documents.

1. Who were the primary parties in this case, and what was the Petitioner’s central allegation?

2. What specific Arizona statute was the Respondent accused of violating, and what does this law generally require?

3. What was the Respondent’s main defense during the initial hearing on August 28, 2020, for not providing the requested records?

4. What was the conclusion of the Administrative Law Judge in the first decision, issued on September 17, 2020?

5. On what legal grounds did the Petitioner successfully file for a rehearing of her case?

6. What new evidence regarding bank statements was presented by the Petitioner at the March 4, 2021, rehearing?

7. How did the Respondent’s management company, Associa Arizona, explain its failure to produce the bank statements and signed contracts in response to the initial request?

8. What was the final outcome of the rehearing, and how did it contradict the initial decision?

9. What two financial penalties were imposed upon the Respondent in the final order of March 24, 2021?

10. What was the Respondent’s argument against the imposition of a civil penalty, and why did the Administrative Law Judge reject it?

——————————————————————————–

Answer Key

1. The primary parties were Petitioner Nancy L. Babington, a property owner, and Respondent Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation, a condominium owners association. The Petitioner alleged that the Respondent failed to provide association records she formally requested, in violation of Arizona law.

2. The Respondent was accused of violating A.R.S. § 33-1258. This statute requires a condominium owners association to make its financial and other records reasonably available for examination by a member and to provide copies of requested records within ten business days.

3. During the initial hearing, the Respondent’s main defense was that it was unable to provide the documents because they were not in its possession. The Respondent claimed its former management company, CMC, was withholding records and that without starting balances, it could not create new financial documents.

4. The Administrative Law Judge denied the Petitioner’s petition in the first decision. The judge concluded that the Petitioner failed to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the Respondent violated the statute because the Respondent did not possess the documents and was not required to create them.

5. The Petitioner was granted a rehearing based on the discovery of “newly discovered material evidence that could not with reasonable diligence have been discovered and produced at the original hearing.” After the first decision, the Respondent provided documents that proved it had, in fact, been in possession of some of the requested records prior to her request.

6. At the rehearing, the Petitioner testified that after receiving the documents, she realized bank statements had been sent to Associa’s central office in Richardson, Texas, starting in August 2019. This demonstrated that the records were in the management company’s possession when she made her request.

7. Associa’s representative testified that bank statements went to a central office in Texas and were not forwarded to the local office because financial packets could not be prepared without starting balances from the previous management company. Regarding the contracts, Associa claimed that the Board of Directors members who signed them had not provided the contracts to Associa.

8. The final outcome of the rehearing was a ruling in favor of the Petitioner. The judge found that evidence presented at the rehearing directly contradicted the Respondent’s earlier claims, establishing that the Respondent did possess bank statements and contracts and had violated A.R.S. § 33-1258(A).

9. In the final order, the Respondent was ordered to pay the Petitioner’s filing fee of $500.00. Additionally, the Respondent was ordered to pay a civil penalty of $2,500.00 to the Arizona Department of Real Estate.

10. The Respondent argued that a civil penalty was not appropriate because the Petitioner did not specifically request one by checking the box on the petition form. The judge rejected this, stating that the plain language of A.R.S. § 32-2199.02 allows the judge to levy a civil penalty for established violations, and this authority is not limited by the remedies requested by a petitioner.

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Essay Questions

The following questions are designed for analytical and in-depth responses. Answers are not provided.

1. Analyze the concept of “possession” of records as it evolved from the first hearing to the second. How did the Respondent’s initial interpretation of “immediate possession” differ from the Administrative Law Judge’s final conclusion regarding the records held by Associa’s Texas office?

2. Discuss the significance of the “preponderance of the evidence” standard in this case. Explain specifically how the Petitioner failed to meet this standard in the first hearing but succeeded in the second, citing the key pieces of evidence that shifted the outcome.

3. Evaluate the role and responsibilities of the management company, Associa Arizona, in this dispute. To what extent were its internal procedures and actions (or inactions) the primary cause of the Respondent’s violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258?

4. Trace the timeline of communication between Nancy Babington and Associa Arizona from April 29, 2020, to May 15, 2020. Analyze how the responses from Associa may have contributed to the perception that the Respondent was refusing to provide information, ultimately leading to the petition being filed.

5. The Administrative Law Judge has the statutory authority to levy a civil penalty for each violation found. Based on the facts of this case, including the Respondent’s representations at the first hearing and the contradictory evidence presented at the second, construct an argument justifying the imposition of the $2,500 civil penalty.

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Glossary of Key Terms

Term / Entity

Definition

A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.

The Arizona Revised Statute cited as giving the Arizona Department of Real Estate jurisdiction to hear disputes between a property owner and a condominium owners association.

A.R.S. § 33-1258

The Arizona Revised Statute at the core of the dispute. It requires that an association’s financial and other records be made “reasonably available” for examination and that the association has ten business days to fulfill a request for examination or to provide copies.

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

The official from the Office of Administrative Hearings (Tammy L. Eigenheer in this case) responsible for conducting the hearings, weighing evidence, and issuing a legally binding decision and order.

Associa Arizona

The management company hired by the Respondent to handle its operations after the termination of the previous management agreement. It was the primary point of contact for the Petitioner’s records request.

Civil Penalty

A monetary fine levied by the Administrative Law Judge for a violation of the law. In this case, a $2,500 penalty was ordered to be paid to the Department of Real Estate.

Community Management & Consulting, LLC (CMC)

The Respondent’s former management company. CMC terminated its agreement with the Respondent and was withholding association records due to a financial disagreement, which was a key part of the Respondent’s defense in the initial hearing.

Department of Real Estate (Department)

The Arizona state agency with which the Petitioner filed her petition and which has jurisdiction over such disputes.

A legal argument made by the Respondent’s counsel during the rehearing. Counsel asserted that the matter was moot (no longer relevant or in dispute) because, by the time of the rehearing, the Petitioner had received all the documents she requested.

Newly Discovered Material Evidence

The legal basis upon which the Petitioner was granted a rehearing. It refers to significant evidence that was not available at the time of the original hearing despite reasonable diligence.

Petitioner

The party who initiates a legal action or petition. In this case, Nancy L. Babington, a condominium owner.

Preponderance of the Evidence

The standard of proof required for the Petitioner to win her case. It is defined as evidence that is more convincing and shows that the fact sought to be proved is “more probable than not.”

Rehearing

A second hearing granted by the Commissioner of the Department of Real Estate to re-examine a case, which was held on March 4, 2021, after the Petitioner presented newly discovered evidence.

Respondent

The party against whom a petition is filed. In this case, Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation, the condominium owners association.

Select all sources
823263.pdf
866802.pdf

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20F-H2020064-REL-RHG

2 sources

These two sources are Administrative Law Judge Decisions concerning a dispute between Nancy L. Babington, a homeowner, and the Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation, her condominium owners association, regarding the provision of association records under Arizona statute A.R.S. § 33-1258. The first document details the initial hearing, held in August 2020, where the judge ruled in favor of the association, concluding that the association was not in violation because it lacked possession of the requested documents due to issues with its former management company. The second document outlines the rehearing, granted due to newly discovered evidence suggesting the association or its new management company, Associa Arizona, actually possessed some records, such as bank statements and contracts, despite earlier claims. Based on the rehearing’s findings, the judge determined the association violated the statute by not providing the records within the ten-day requirement and ordered the association to reimburse the petitioner’s filing fee and pay a civil penalty.

2 sources

How did newly discovered evidence lead to reversal of the initial legal decision?
What were the specific consequences for the respondent following the administrative rehearing?
How did the interpretation of statutory record possession requirements change between hearings?

Based on 2 sources

NotebookLM can be inaccurate; please double check its responses.

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Nancy L. Babington (petitioner)

Respondent Side

  • Lydia A. Peirce Linsmeier (HOA attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN LLP
    Represented Respondent at initial hearing
  • Mark K. Sahl (HOA attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN LLP
    Represented Respondent at rehearing
  • Scott B. Carpenter (HOA attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN LLP
    Represented Respondent at rehearing
  • Debbie Schumacher (board member)
    Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation
  • Marty Shuford (board member)
    Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation
  • Joseph Silberschlag (board member)
    Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation
    Secretary; testified
  • Angelina Rajenovich (board member)
    Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation
  • Dermot Brown (board member)
    Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation
  • Lori Nusbaum (board member)
    Park Scottsdale II Townhouse Corporation
  • Linda Parker (HOA staff)
    Associa Arizona
    Director of Client Services for property manager
  • Evelyn Shanley (HOA staff)
    Associa Arizona
    Community Director for property manager; testified at rehearing
  • Laura Smith (HOA staff)
    Associa Arizona

Neutral Parties

  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
    OAH
  • Judy Lowe (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • LDettorre (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • AHansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • djones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • DGardner (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • ncano (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • c. serrano (staff)
    Signed order transmission

Other Participants

  • Stephen Silberschlag (unknown)
    Subject of Petitioner's record request

Sellers, John A. v. Rancho Madera Condominium Association

Case Summary

Case ID 19F-H1919066-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2019-08-26
Administrative Law Judge Antara Nath Rivera
Outcome The ALJ dismissed the petition, ruling that the Petitioner failed to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the Association violated A.R.S. § 33-1258. The Association provided available records, and the remaining requested items either did not exist or were properly withheld under statutory exceptions for privileged communications and pending litigation.
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner John A Sellers Counsel
Respondent Rancho Madera Condominium Association Counsel Edward D. O'Brien

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Outcome Summary

The ALJ dismissed the petition, ruling that the Petitioner failed to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the Association violated A.R.S. § 33-1258. The Association provided available records, and the remaining requested items either did not exist or were properly withheld under statutory exceptions for privileged communications and pending litigation.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to establish that the requested documents existed or were improperly withheld. The Respondent successfully demonstrated that it had provided all non-privileged records in its possession and that specific meeting minutes and emails did not exist.

Key Issues & Findings

Failure to Provide Records

Petitioner alleged the Association failed to provide records requested on April 29, 2019, specifically emails regarding specific individuals, legal invoices, executive session minutes, and communications regarding a petition signing.

Orders: The Petition is dismissed.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 33-1248

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

19F-H1919066-REL Decision – 733561.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:21:15 (99.9 KB)

19F-H1919066-REL Decision – 733561.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-11T06:35:50 (99.9 KB)

Administrative Law Judge Decision: Sellers v. Rancho Madera Condominium Association

Executive Summary

This briefing document summarizes the administrative law judge (ALJ) decision regarding a dispute between John A. Sellers (Petitioner) and the Rancho Madera Condominium Association (Respondent). The case, presided over by ALJ Antara Nath Rivera, centered on allegations that the Association violated Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 33-1258 by failing to provide requested records in a timely and complete manner.

The Petitioner submitted a consolidated records request on April 29, 2019, seeking legal invoices, communications with specific third parties, executive session minutes, and records regarding a member petition. Following a hearing on August 5, 2019, the ALJ determined that the Petitioner failed to prove the Association withheld existing, non-exempt documents. Consequently, the Petition was dismissed on August 26, 2019.

Analysis of Key Themes

1. Statutory Obligations for Record Disclosure

Under A.R.S. § 33-1258, condominium associations are mandated to make financial and other records "reasonably available for examination" to members within ten business days of a written request. However, the statute provides specific exceptions where an association may withhold records, including:

  • Privileged Communications: Correspondence between the association and its attorney.
  • Pending Litigation: Documents specifically relating to active legal matters.
  • Executive Sessions: Meeting minutes or records of board sessions not required to be open to all members under A.R.S. § 33-1248.

The Respondent successfully argued that they had adhered to these standards by providing redacted documents where the information fell under attorney-client privilege or executive session exemptions.

2. The Burden of Proof and Evidence of Existence

A central theme of the decision is the Petitioner’s burden to prove by a "preponderance of the evidence" that a violation occurred. In administrative proceedings, this means the Petitioner must show that the facts sought to be proved are "more probable than not."

The ALJ found that the Petitioner failed to meet this burden regarding items for which the Association claimed no records existed. Specifically:

  • Item #1 (Third-party communications): The Petitioner believed these emails existed to prove communications about him, but the Association testified they were not in their possession.
  • Item #4 (Meeting records for a notarized petition): The Petitioner opined that 21 signatures could not have been collected without a meeting. The Association clarified that no such meetings occurred; rather, individual residents took actions regarding the Petitioner’s divorce proceedings independently.
3. Transparency vs. Legal Redaction

The Association sought to demonstrate a high degree of transparency to counter the Petitioner's claims. Evidence presented by Association President Jeff Kaplan indicated that:

  • The Association received over 400 emails from the Petitioner in three years, approximately 100 of which were records requests.
  • The Association provided documents beyond those requested to facilitate transparency.
  • Financial and bank records were kept accessible to all residents via the Association’s website.

The ALJ accepted that the Association’s use of redactions for legal invoices and executive session minutes was a lawful application of the exceptions provided in A.R.S. § 33-1258(B).

Key Petitioner Requests and Court Findings

Request Item Description Association Response ALJ Conclusion
Item #1 Communications between the HOA/Agents and ROI/Mrs. Sellers. Records do not exist/not in Association's possession. Petitioner failed to prove documents existed at the time of request.
Item #2 Unredacted legal invoices for the current Petition. Provided redacted versions citing attorney-client privilege. Petitioner acknowledged compliance after receiving documents.
Item #3 Records/minutes for all Executive Sessions since the Petition filing. Provided redacted minutes; cited A.R.S. § 33-1248 exemptions. Petitioner did not dispute that records were exempt under the statute.
Item #4 Records regarding meetings held to sign a petition against the Petitioner. No such meetings occurred; signatures were individual actions. Petitioner failed to prove documents existed.

Important Quotes

Regarding the Records Request

"Please consider this email as one consolidated renewed records request… for the following: 1. Copies of all records and communications… with and between ROI, Mrs D Sellers, and or any of their Agents since Nov 1 2018."

  • Context: Petitioner John Sellers’ formal email to Association President Jeff Kaplan on April 29, 2019, which formed the basis of the dispute.
Regarding Statutory Exceptions

"Books and records kept by or on behalf of the association and the board may be withheld from disclosure to the extent that the portion withheld relates to… Privileged communication between an attorney for the association and the association [and] Pending litigation."

  • Context: A citation of A.R.S. § 33-1258(B), used by the ALJ to define the legal boundaries of what an Association is permitted to keep confidential.
Regarding the Final Ruling

"Petitioner failed to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that these documents existed at the time of the April 29, 2019 request such that Respondent’s failure to provide the documents was a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258."

  • Context: The ALJ’s legal justification for dismissing the Petition regarding items for which no physical records could be produced.

Actionable Insights

  • Verification of Record Existence: For members filing records requests, the belief that a document "should" exist is insufficient for a legal victory; there must be evidence that the record actually exists or was required to be maintained.
  • Understanding Redactions: Association members should be aware that "unredacted" requests for legal invoices are frequently denied based on attorney-client privilege and pending litigation exceptions established in state law.
  • Association Compliance Strategies: To defend against claims of non-compliance, associations should maintain a clear paper trail of all documents provided and ensure that all residents have standing access to basic financial records (e.g., via a community website).
  • Standard of Evidence: Parties in administrative hearings must prepare to meet the "preponderance of the evidence" standard. Mere opinion or speculation—such as the Petitioner’s opining that a meeting "must have happened" to collect signatures—is typically dismissed if countered by testimony of non-existence.

Case Analysis: Sellers v. Rancho Madera Condominium Association

This study guide examines the administrative law proceedings regarding a dispute between a condominium unit owner and a homeowners association (HOA). It focuses on the statutory requirements for records disclosure, the legal exceptions to such requests, and the burden of proof required in administrative hearings.


Key Legal Concepts and Statutory Framework

Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 33-1258: Records Disclosure

This statute governs the availability of association records to its members. The core requirements include:

  • Reasonable Availability: All financial and other records must be made available for examination by a member or their designated representative.
  • Timeline: The association has ten business days to fulfill a request for examination or provide copies of records.
  • Cost: Associations may not charge for the review of materials but may charge up to fifteen cents per page for copies.
Statutory Exceptions to Disclosure

Under A.R.S. § 33-1258(B), an association may withhold books and records if the portion relates to:

  1. Attorney-Client Privilege: Communications between the association and its legal counsel.
  2. Pending Litigation: Records specifically related to ongoing legal disputes.
  3. Executive Session Minutes: Records of board meetings not required to be open to all members pursuant to A.R.S. § 33-1248.
Burden of Proof

In administrative hearings regarding HOA disputes (A.R.S. § 41-2198.01), the Petitioner bears the burden of proof. They must establish a violation by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning the evidence shows that the alleged fact is more probable than not.


Summary of the Dispute: Case No. 19F-H1919066-REL

The Petitioner, John A. Sellers, filed a petition against the Respondent, Rancho Madera Condominium Association, alleging a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258 for failure to provide records requested on April 29, 2019.

The Four Record Requests
Item # Petitioner's Request Respondent's Position / ALJ Finding
1 Records/emails between Association agents and ROI, Mrs. D. Sellers, or their agents since Nov 2018. Records do not exist; Petitioner failed to prove existence.
2 Unredacted legal invoices for the current Petition, including those paid by insurance. Redacted versions provided; unredacted versions are protected by attorney-client privilege.
3 Notices, emails, and minutes for Executive Sessions since the AZDRE Petition was filed. Redacted minutes provided; records are exempt under A.R.S. § 33-1248/33-1258(B).
4 Communications/notices regarding member meetings held to sign a notarized petition against the Petitioner. No such meetings occurred; signatures were gathered by residents independently. Records do not exist.

Short-Answer Practice Questions

  1. According to A.R.S. § 33-1258, how many business days does an association have to fulfill a request for records?
  • Answer: Ten business days.
  1. What is the maximum fee per page an association can charge for making copies of records?
  • Answer: Fifteen cents ($0.15) per page.
  1. Under what legal theory did the Respondent justify redacting legal invoices in Item #2?
  • Answer: Attorney-client privilege and the "pending litigation" exception.
  1. Who bears the burden of proof in an HOA dispute process petition before the Arizona Department of Real Estate?
  • Answer: The Petitioner.
  1. Why was the Petitioner's request for records of meetings on April 6 and April 8, 2019 (Item #4) denied?
  • Answer: The Respondent testified that no such meetings occurred, and therefore no minutes or records existed.
  1. What does "preponderance of the evidence" mean in the context of this hearing?
  • Answer: Evidence that is of greater weight or more convincing than the opposition, showing a fact is more probable than not.
  1. Is an association required to provide unredacted minutes of an Executive Session of the Board?
  • Answer: No; under A.R.S. § 33-1258(B)(3), these are exempt from disclosure if the session is not required to be open under A.R.S. § 33-1248.

Essay Prompts for Deeper Exploration

  1. Statutory Boundaries of Transparency: Analyze the balance between a member’s right to transparency and an association’s right to privileged communication. Use the ALJ’s ruling on Item #2 and Item #3 to support your argument regarding why certain records remain protected even when a member claims there is "no litigation exception."
  2. The "Non-Existent Document" Defense: In this case, several requests were dismissed because the Respondent claimed the documents did not exist. Discuss the Petitioner’s responsibility in proving the existence of documents versus the Respondent's duty to provide them. How does the ALJ’s ruling on Item #5 clarify the relevance of "record retention policies" in a disclosure dispute?
  3. The Role of Administrative Jurisdiction: Explain the jurisdictional roles of the Arizona Department of Real Estate and the Office of Administrative Hearings in HOA disputes as outlined in A.R.S. § 41-2198.01. Why is this administrative process used instead of a standard civil court for these specific disputes?

Glossary of Important Terms

  • Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): An official who presides over an administrative hearing, hears evidence, and issues a decision or order.
  • A.R.S. § 33-1248: The Arizona statute governing open meeting requirements for condominium associations.
  • Attorney-Client Privilege: A legal principle that keeps communications between an attorney and their client confidential and protected from disclosure.
  • Executive Session: A portion of a board meeting that is closed to the general membership, typically used to discuss legal, personnel, or sensitive matters.
  • Notice of Hearing: A formal document issued to notify parties of the date, time, and location of a legal proceeding.
  • Petitioner: The party who initiates a lawsuit or petition; in this case, John A. Sellers.
  • Preponderance of the Evidence: The standard of proof in most civil and administrative cases, requiring that a claim be more likely true than not.
  • Respondent: The party against whom a petition is filed; in this case, Rancho Madera Condominium Association.
  • Statutory Exception: A specific condition or circumstance defined in law that exempts a party from a general legal requirement.

HOA Transparency vs. Legal Privacy: Lessons from Sellers v. Rancho Madera Condominium Association

1. Introduction: The Conflict Over Information

In the governed ecosystem of Arizona condominiums, the "right to know" is a frequent flashpoint between unit owners and their associations. While transparency is the bedrock of community trust, it often collides with an association’s statutory right to protect privileged legal strategies and executive deliberations. This tension is not merely academic; it frequently results in high-stakes administrative litigation.

The case of John A. Sellers vs. Rancho Madera Condominium Association (No. 19F-H1919066-REL) provides a masterclass in how these disputes are adjudicated. Decided by the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE) in 2019, the ruling clarifies the boundaries of Arizona Revised Statute § 33-1258, illustrating exactly what records an association must produce—and where the law allows them to shut the door.

2. The Paper Trail: 400 Emails and a Consolidated Request

The dispute reached a boiling point when Petitioner John Sellers, joined by Margaret SwanTKO, issued a "consolidated renewed records request" on April 29, 2019. Alleging that previous requests had been ignored, Sellers demanded four specific categories of documentation under A.R.S. § 33-1258:

  • Third-Party Communications: All records and communications—including emails and conference call notes—between the Association, its agents, and legal counsel (Carpenter Hazelwood) regarding ROI and Mrs. D. Sellers since November 1, 2018.
  • Unredacted Legal Invoices: Complete, unredacted invoices related to the ADRE petition, with Sellers arguing that no litigation exception applied to these financial records.
  • Executive Session Records: All notices, emails, and minutes for every Executive Session of the Board since the filing of the petition, specifically including the meeting where counsel was retained.
  • The "Vendetta" Petition Records: All communications and notices regarding member meetings held to sign a notarized petition—a document that allegedly characterized Sellers as having a "vendetta."

3. The Association’s Defense: "Above and Beyond" Compliance

Represented by Board President Jeff Kaplan, the Rancho Madera Condominium Association countered that it was not the Association being opaque, but rather the Petitioner being overzealous. Kaplan testified to a staggering administrative burden: the Association had received over 400 emails from Sellers in the three years preceding the hearing, approximately 100 of which were formal records requests.

Kaplan argued that the Association had acted with extreme transparency, even going "above and beyond" by providing documents Sellers hadn't specifically requested. To further prove their commitment to disclosure, the Association maintained financial and bank records on a community website accessible to all residents at any time.

4. Legal Analysis: Understanding A.R.S. § 33-1258

The resolution of these disputes hinges on A.R.S. § 33-1258, which serves as the definitive guide for HOA record disclosure in Arizona. The statute establishes a clear "General Rule" for transparency while carving out narrow "Statutory Exceptions" to protect sensitive information.

HOA Records: Disclosure vs. Exclusion
General Rule (A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)) Statutory Exceptions (A.R.S. § 33-1258(B))
Availability: All financial and other records must be made available within ten business days of a written request. Attorney-Client Privilege: Privileged communications between the association and its legal counsel are exempt.
Access: Records must be open for examination by a member or their designated representative. Pending Litigation: Records specifically related to active or pending legal matters may be withheld.
Costs: Associations may charge up to $0.15 per page for copies but cannot charge for the time spent reviewing the materials. Executive Sessions: Meeting minutes or records for board sessions not required to be open under A.R.S. § 33-1248 (e.g., personnel or legal matters).

5. The Judge’s Ruling: The Limits of Discovery

Administrative Law Judge Antara Nath Rivera dismissed the petition on August 26, 2019, after applying the "Preponderance of the Evidence" standard. This required the Petitioner to prove it was "more probable than not" that a violation occurred. The ruling turned on several key findings:

  • Items #1 and #4 (The Existence of Records): Sellers "strongly believed" emails and meeting minutes regarding a "vendetta petition" existed. However, Kaplan testified that no such meetings occurred on the dates Sellers alleged (April 6 or 8, 2019). The Judge ruled that Sellers failed to prove the records existed. Under the law, an association cannot be penalized for failing to produce non-existent documents.
  • Item #2 (The Admission of Satisfaction): While Sellers originally demanded unredacted legal invoices, he admitted during the hearing that he was satisfied with the redacted versions eventually provided. This admission effectively neutralized the claim.
  • Item #3 (Executive Sessions): The Association provided redacted minutes of executive sessions. Sellers did not dispute that these records fell under the statutory exceptions of A.R.S. § 33-1258(B).
  • The "Human Interest" Context: The testimony revealed that the "notarized petition" Sellers sought records for was actually an effort by neighbors who were unhappy with him. These residents had even attended Sellers’ divorce proceedings to influence the court against awarding him the house, as they no longer wished to have him as a neighbor.

6. Key Takeaways for HOA Members and Boards

The Sellers decision offers three critical lessons for community association stakeholders:

  1. The Burden of Proof is on the Requester: It is not enough to suspect that an association is hiding documents. To prove a violation, a member must provide evidence that the records actually exist. Furthermore, a "record retention policy" does not change the outcome; if a record is not in the association's possession at the time of the request, there is no violation of § 33-1258.
  2. Privilege and Redaction are Standard: While members have a right to see legal invoices, they do not have a right to see the legal strategy contained within them. Redacting privileged information regarding current litigation is the legally accepted middle ground.
  3. Statutory Exceptions are Absolute: The protections for attorney-client privilege and executive sessions under A.R.S. § 33-1258(B) and § 33-1248 are robust. Boards that maintain organized records and apply these exceptions consistently are well-positioned to defeat "fishing expedition" style petitions.

7. Conclusion: Balancing Rights and Regulations

The dismissal of John Sellers' petition underscores a fundamental reality of community association law: the right to information is not an absolute right to every scrap of paper. By providing bank records via a website and complying with redacted requests, the Rancho Madera Condominium Association demonstrated the "above and beyond" transparency that judges look for.

For associations, the lesson is to remain organized and responsive. For members, the lesson is to understand that the law protects the board's ability to consult with counsel and deliberate in private. Without this balance, the administrative burden of endless requests can quickly overshadow the actual management of the community.

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • John A. Sellers (petitioner)
    Appeared on his own behalf; member of the Association
  • Margaret SwanTKO (member)
    Listed in consolidated records request with John Sellers

Respondent Side

  • Jeff Kaplan (board president)
    Rancho Madera Condominium Association
    Testified on behalf of Respondent
  • Ed O’Brien (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen LLP
    Appeared on behalf of Respondent
  • Edith I. Rudder (HOA attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen LLP
    Listed on distribution list

Neutral Parties

  • Antara Nath Rivera (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
    Administrative Law Judge
  • Judy Lowe (commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Listed on distribution list

Other Participants

  • Mrs. D. Sellers (unknown)
    Mentioned in records request regarding communications

George E Lord vs. The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association

Case Summary

Case ID 19F-H1918013-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2018-12-17
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome The Administrative Law Judge dismissed the Petition in its entirety, concluding that the Petitioner failed to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the Respondent Condominium Association violated A.R.S. § 33-1242, A.R.S. § 33-1260.01, or the association's CC&Rs.
Filing Fees Refunded $0.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner George E Lord Counsel
Respondent The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association Counsel Maria Kupillas

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1242, A.R.S. § 33-1260.01, and CC&Rs

Outcome Summary

The Administrative Law Judge dismissed the Petition in its entirety, concluding that the Petitioner failed to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the Respondent Condominium Association violated A.R.S. § 33-1242, A.R.S. § 33-1260.01, or the association's CC&Rs.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to establish a violation of any statute or covenant alleged. The core findings supported the HOA's position that the lessee was engaging in prohibited business activity and subletting, and that the charged attorney fees were permissible.

Key Issues & Findings

Alleged violations concerning notice procedures, leasing restrictions, prohibited business use, and excessive fees.

Petitioner alleged Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1242 by failing to include proper citations in violation notices, violated A.R.S. § 33-1260.01 and CC&Rs by imposing illegal restrictions on occupancy dates and prohibiting tenant guests, and violated fee limits under A.R.S. § 33-1260.01(E) by charging $250 in attorney fees.

Orders: The Petition was dismissed.

Filing fee: $0.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: petitioner_loss

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1242
  • A.R.S. § 33-1260.01
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119
  • CC&Rs Section 7.21
  • CC&Rs Section 7.3

Analytics Highlights

Topics: condominium, HOA dispute, leasing restrictions, short-term rental, business use, notice procedure, attorney fees
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1242
  • A.R.S. § 33-1260.01
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119
  • CC&Rs Section 7.21
  • CC&Rs Section 7.3

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

19F-H1918013-REL Decision – 677039.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-26T09:47:51 (115.9 KB)

19F-H1918013-REL Decision – 677040.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-26T09:47:54 (47.9 KB)

19F-H1918013-REL Decision – 677039.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:26:46 (115.9 KB)

19F-H1918013-REL Decision – 677040.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:26:49 (47.9 KB)

Briefing Document: Lord v. The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the findings and conclusions from the Administrative Law Judge Decision in case number 19F-H1918013-REL, involving Petitioner George E. Lord and Respondent The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association. The judge ultimately dismissed all claims brought by the Petitioner, ruling that the Association acted within the bounds of Arizona statutes and its governing documents.

The core of the dispute centered on Mr. Lord’s leasing of three condominium units to an individual, Barrie Shepley, who used the properties to house participants for his commercial fitness training camps. The Association contended this arrangement constituted a prohibited short-term sublease and an improper business use of the units, leading them to suspend amenity access for the occupants.

The judge’s decision affirmed the Association’s position on all counts. Key takeaways include:

Substance Over Form: The judge concluded that despite the absence of a formal sublease agreement, the nature of the arrangement—specifically a camp pricing structure that varied based on the number of occupants per condo—was effectively a sublet designed to house an “itinerant population,” contrary to the “spirit and purpose” of the community’s rules.

Business Use Violation: The operation was found to be a business activity that violated the CC&Rs by requiring persons (camp participants) to come to the residential units.

Procedural Compliance: The Association’s violation notices were deemed compliant with Arizona law. The judge noted that the statute only requires a detailed citation of the violated rule after the owner responds to the initial notice, which the Petitioner failed to do.

Legality of Fees: A $250 charge levied by the Association’s counsel was determined to be a permissible charge for attorney’s fees related to potential collection, not an illegal penalty for leasing information as the Petitioner alleged.

As a result of these findings, the Petitioner’s request for relief was denied, and the petition was dismissed in its entirety.

I. Case Overview

Parties:

Petitioner: George E. Lord (unit owner)

Respondent: The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association

Case Number: 19F-H1918013-REL

Venue: Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings

Presiding Judge: Tammy L. Eigenheer, Administrative Law Judge

Hearing Date: November 26, 2018

Decision Date: December 17, 2018

Final Disposition: The petition filed by George E. Lord was dismissed.

II. Factual Background and Timeline of Events

1. Lease Agreements: On or about December 4, 2017, Petitioner George Lord, through his management company, leased two units at The Boulders to Barrie Shepley for a term from March 7, 2018, to April 30, 2018. A third unit was subsequently leased to Mr. Shepley on or about January 15, 2018.

2. Commercial Use: Mr. Shepley operated a Canadian fitness business, “Personal Best,” which offered training camps in Tucson. Accommodations at The Boulders were included in the camp packages. The price for a camp varied based on occupancy:

◦ $950.00 each for four campers in a condo

◦ $1075.00 each for three campers in a condo

◦ $1299.00 each for two campers in a condo

3. Occupancy Begins: On March 7, 2018, guests of Mr. Shepley (camp participants) began arriving to occupy the three leased units.

4. Association Intervention: On March 9, 2018, Community Manager Danielle Morris emailed Mr. Lord, stating the Association’s belief that he was in violation of the CC&Rs by allowing subleasing for periods less than the 30-day minimum. Ms. Morris informed him that amenity access cards for the three units were deactivated.

5. Dispute Escalation: Mr. Lord contended that the occupants were merely “guests” of Mr. Shepley, not subletters. Ms. Morris countered that the Association required the names of all occupants and the duration of their stays, and that each occupant must stay for a minimum of 30 days.

6. Information Provided: On March 13, 2018, Mr. Lord provided the names of the occupants and their dates of occupancy, requesting that amenities be restored.

7. Violation Reiterated: On March 16, 2018, Ms. Morris stated the violation was ongoing, as occupants staying from March 7 to March 31 did not meet the 30-day minimum stay requirement.

8. Formal Notice of Violation: On March 18, 2018, Mr. Lord received formal Notices of Violations for the three units. The notices stated that amenity access was suspended because the HOA was not provided with the names of adult occupants and their timeframes. The notice warned that a $300 fine could be applied. Mr. Lord did not respond to these notices.

9. Attorney Involvement: On March 22, 2018, Mr. Lord received a letter from the Association’s legal counsel outlining its legal position and noting an amount due of $250 for attorney’s fees already incurred.

10. Lease Cancellation & Financial Loss: On April 2, 2018, Mr. Shepley cancelled the remainder of the leases due to the lack of amenities for his guests. Mr. Lord asserted a resulting financial loss of $6,900 in rental fees for April 2018.

11. Petition Filing: On August 31, 2018, Mr. Lord filed a petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate, alleging the Association violated state statutes and its own CC&Rs.

III. Petitioner’s Allegations and Arguments

Mr. Lord’s petition was based on three primary allegations against the Association:

Allegation 1: Defective Violation Notice (A.R.S. § 33-1242): The Petitioner argued that the Notices of Violations were legally deficient because they failed to cite the specific statute or CC&R provision that had allegedly been violated.

Allegation 2: Unlawful Occupancy Requirements (A.R.S. § 33-1260.01 & CC&Rs): The Petitioner asserted that the Association overstepped its authority by demanding that each occupant, whom he characterized as a “guest” of the primary lessee, must stay for a minimum of 30 days. He argued the 30-day minimum lease term applied only to the primary lease with Mr. Shepley, not to the occupants.

Allegation 3: Improper Fees (A.R.S. § 33-1260.01(E)): The Petitioner claimed that the $250 charge from the Association’s attorney constituted an illegal fee, penalty, or charge related to providing leasing information, which he argued was prohibited by statute.

IV. Administrative Law Judge’s Findings and Conclusions

The Administrative Law Judge found that the Petitioner failed to meet the burden of proof for any of his allegations and dismissed the petition. The judge’s reasoning is detailed below.

Finding 1: No Violation of A.R.S. § 33-1242 (Violation Notice)

The judge determined that the Association’s initial Notices of Violations were legally sufficient.

Legal Reasoning: A.R.S. § 33-1242(C) requires an association to cite the specific provision of the condominium documents that has been violated. However, this obligation is only triggered after the unit owner sends a written response to the initial notice by certified mail.

Factual Basis: The Petitioner admitted that he did not respond to the formal Notices of Violations he received.

Conclusion: Because the Petitioner did not take the legally required step to trigger the Association’s duty to provide a specific citation, the Association did not violate the statute.

Finding 2: No Violation of A.R.S. § 33-1260.01 or CC&Rs (Leasing Rules)

The judge concluded that the Association was justified in its actions regarding the occupancy of the units.

The Arrangement was a “Form” of Subletting: The judge ruled against the Petitioner’s argument that the occupants were merely “guests.” The fact that the price of the fitness camp changed based on how many people shared a unit was seen as evidence that Mr. Shepley was, in effect, subletting the units for his business.

Prohibited Business Activity: The judge found that Mr. Shepley was operating a business from the units in a manner prohibited by Section 7.3 of the CC&Rs, which disallows business activity that “involve[s] persons coming to the Unit.”

Spirit of the Law: The decision acknowledged that the specific facts of the case “falls between the cracks of the specific language of the statutes and the regulations.” However, the judge emphasized that the Association’s actions were consistent with the broader intent of its rules, stating, “given the totality of the circumstances, the spirit and purpose of the applicable rules is to allow an association to know who is in the community and to prevent an itinerant population.”

Conclusion: The Petitioner failed to establish that the Association violated leasing statutes or its own CC&Rs.

Finding 3: No Violation of A.R.S. § 33-1260.01(E) (Fees)

The judge found that the $250 charge was not an illegal penalty.

Nature of the Charge: The evidence showed that no fines for the lease policy violation had actually been assessed. The $250 charge was explicitly for attorney’s fees related to the potential collection of assessments.

Legal Reasoning: The judge stated, “Nothing in the cited statute or the CC&Rs prohibits such a charge being implemented.” The fee was not a penalty for “incomplete or late information” as covered by the statute, but a charge for legal costs incurred by the Association.

Conclusion: The Petitioner failed to establish a violation regarding the assessed fees.

V. Referenced Statutes and Governing Documents

Reference

Provision Summary

Relevance to Case

A.R.S. § 33-1242(B)&(C)

Outlines the process for a unit owner to respond to a violation notice and the association’s subsequent duty to provide specific details of the violation.

The judge found no violation because the Petitioner did not follow the procedure to trigger the association’s duty.

A.R.S. § 33-1260.01(C)

Limits the information an association can require about a tenant to names, contact info for adults, lease period, and vehicle information.

The Petitioner’s case rested on interpreting this statute; the judge found the Association’s inquiries justified by the unique circumstances.

A.R.S. § 33-1260.01(E)

Prohibits an association from imposing fees greater than $15 for incomplete or late leasing information.

The Petitioner argued the $250 attorney fee violated this, but the judge found it was a permissible charge for legal costs, not a penalty.

CC&R Section 7.21

Requires leases to be in writing, for a term of not less than 30 days, and requires owners to provide lessee names and lease dates.

The Association argued the arrangement violated the 30-day minimum stay rule for occupants, which the judge upheld in spirit.

CC&R Section 7.3

Prohibits business activities within a unit that involve persons coming to the unit.

The judge found Mr. Shepley’s fitness camp, which housed participants in the units, was a clear violation of this provision.

Leasing Policy

States a $300 fine may be imposed for violations of the 30-day minimum lease policy.

The Notice of Violation referenced this potential fine, though it was never actually assessed.

VI. Final Order and Procedural Notes

Order: Based on the above findings, the Administrative Law Judge ordered that the Petition be dismissed.

Binding Nature: The decision is binding on the parties unless a rehearing is granted. A request for rehearing must be filed with the Commissioner of the Department of Real Estate within 30 days of the service of the Order.

Related Filings: On the same day the decision was issued, December 17, 2018, the court also issued a separate “Order Vacating Hearing,” likely a procedural filing to cancel a future hearing that was rendered unnecessary by the dismissal of the case.

Study Guide: Lord v. The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association

This study guide provides a detailed review of the administrative case No. 19F-H1918013-REL, heard by the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings. The case involves a dispute between a condominium unit owner, George E. Lord, and his condominium association, The Boulders at La Reserve, concerning leasing policies, occupant regulations, and alleged statutory violations.

Short-Answer Quiz

Instructions: Answer the following questions in two to three complete sentences, based on the information provided in the source documents.

1. Who were the primary parties involved in this administrative hearing, and what were their respective roles?

2. Describe the business arrangement that Barrie Shepley, the petitioner’s lessee, was operating from the leased condominium units.

3. What was the first official action the Condominium Association’s management took in response to the arrival of Barrie Shepley’s guests, and what was their stated reason?

4. According to the Association, what two specific provisions of the governing documents were being violated by the petitioner and his lessee?

5. What was the petitioner’s central argument for why the occupants of the units were not in violation of the Association’s 30-day minimum stay requirement?

6. On what procedural grounds did the petitioner, George Lord, claim that the Association’s “Notice of Violations” was itself a violation of Arizona law (A.R.S. § 33-1242)?

7. Why did the Administrative Law Judge ultimately rule that the Association did not violate A.R.S. § 33-1242?

8. How did the judge interpret the fact that the price for Barrie Shepley’s fitness camps varied based on the number of people sharing a condo?

9. What financial loss did the petitioner claim to have suffered, and what was the direct cause of this loss?

10. What was the final ruling, or “Order,” issued by the Administrative Law Judge in this case?

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Answer Key

1. The primary parties were George E. Lord, the petitioner and owner of multiple condominium units, and The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association, the respondent and governing body for the community. The case was adjudicated by Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer.

2. Barrie Shepley operated a fitness business called “Personal Best” that offered training camps in the Tucson area. The price for these camps included accommodations at The Boulders, with the cost per person varying based on how many campers shared a condominium unit.

3. The Association’s first action was to deactivate the amenity access cards for the three units leased by Shepley. Danielle Morris, the Community Manager, stated this was due to a belief that the petitioner’s lessee was subleasing the units for periods of less than the 30-day minimum in violation of the CC&Rs.

4. The Association alleged violations of the CC&Rs related to subleasing for less than the 30-day minimum timeframe. The formal Notices of Violations also cited the failure to provide the names of all adult occupants and the timeframes of their stays to the HOA.

5. The petitioner argued that because his lessee, Mr. Shepley, was not charging a specific rental fee to the occupants, they were merely “guests” and not sub-lessees. Therefore, the 30-day minimum stay requirement applicable to leases did not apply to them.

6. The petitioner alleged that the Association’s failure to include a citation to the specific statute or CC&R provision that had allegedly been violated in the initial Notice of Violations was a violation of A.R.S. § 33-1242.

7. The judge ruled against the petitioner because A.R.S. § 33-1242 only requires an association to provide the specific provision violated after the unit owner sends a written response to the initial notice by certified mail. The petitioner admitted that he did not respond to the Notices of Violations.

8. The judge found that the tiered pricing structure supported the conclusion that Mr. Shepley was, “in a form, subletting the units.” The fact that the camp price decreased as more people shared a unit indicated that the occupants were paying for their accommodations, not simply staying as guests.

9. The petitioner asserted a financial loss of $6,900 in rental fees for April 2018. This loss was directly caused by Barrie Shepley canceling the remainder of his leases due to the lack of amenities for his occupants.

10. The Administrative Law Judge’s final order was that the Petition filed by George E. Lord be dismissed. This decision was binding unless a rehearing was granted.

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Essay Questions

Instructions: The following questions are designed to test a deeper, more analytical understanding of the case. Formulate a comprehensive response to each prompt, citing specific facts, arguments, and legal interpretations from the case file.

1. Analyze the Administrative Law Judge’s reasoning for concluding that Barrie Shepley was “in a form, subletting” the units. Discuss the evidence cited and the concept of the “spirit and purpose” of the rules versus their literal interpretation.

2. Examine the procedural misstep made by the petitioner, George Lord, after receiving the Notices of Violations. How did this action directly impact the judge’s ruling on his claim regarding A.R.S. § 33-1242?

3. Discuss the conflict between a unit owner’s right to lease their property and a condominium association’s right to enforce its governing documents, using the specific provisions of the CC&Rs (Sections 7.21 and 7.3) and state law (A.R.S. § 33-1260.01) as examples from the case.

4. Explain the distinction the judge made between the $300 potential fine mentioned in the Notice of Violations and the $250 attorney’s fee charged to the petitioner. How did this distinction relate to A.R.S. § 33-1260.01(E), and why was the Association’s action deemed permissible?

5. Evaluate the concept of an “itinerant population” as mentioned by the judge. How did Barrie Shepley’s business model contribute to this concern for the Association, and how did it ultimately weigh into the judge’s decision to dismiss the petition?

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Glossary of Key Terms

Term / Name

Definition

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

An official who presides over administrative hearings, weighs evidence, and makes legal rulings on disputes involving government agencies. In this case, Tammy L. Eigenheer.

A.R.S. (Arizona Revised Statutes)

The codified body of laws for the state of Arizona. The petitioner alleged violations of specific statutes within this code, namely A.R.S. § 33-1242 and § 33-1260.01.

A.R.S. § 33-1242

A state law governing the process for notifying a unit owner of a violation of condominium documents and the procedures for the owner to respond and contest the notice.

A.R.S. § 33-1260.01

A state law that places limitations on what information an association can require from a unit owner regarding a tenant and caps certain fees or penalties for incomplete information at $15.

Amenity

A feature or facility of a property that provides comfort, convenience, or pleasure. In this case, access to amenities was controlled by key cards, which the Association deactivated.

Barrie Shepley

The individual who leased three condominium units from the petitioner. He operated a fitness business, “Personal Best,” and used the units to house clients attending his training camps.

Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. These are the governing legal documents that set out the rules for a planned community or condominium. The Association alleged Shepley’s use of the units violated Sections 7.21 (leasing limitations) and 7.3 (business use limitations).

George E. Lord

The Petitioner in the case. He was the owner of multiple condominium units at The Boulders at La Reserve and filed the petition against the Association.

Itinerant population

A term used by the judge to describe a population of short-term, transient occupants. The judge concluded that the purpose of the Association’s rules was, in part, to prevent this type of occupancy.

Notice of Violations

A formal written document sent by the Association to the petitioner informing him of alleged violations of the governing documents and outlining potential consequences, such as fines.

Petitioner

The party who files a petition initiating a legal or administrative action. In this case, George E. Lord.

Preponderance of the evidence

The standard of proof required in this administrative hearing. It means that the petitioner had the burden of showing that the facts they sought to prove were “more probable than not.”

Respondent

The party against whom a petition is filed. In this case, The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association.

Subletting

The practice of a tenant leasing a rented property to a third party. The Association contended Shepley was subletting the units to his campers, while the petitioner argued they were merely guests.

The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association

The Respondent in the case. The homeowners’ association (HOA) responsible for governing the condominium community in Oro Valley, Arizona.

The $6,900 ‘Guest’ Mistake: 3 Hard Lessons from an HOA Lawsuit

A $6,900 loss in rental income and a losing legal battle with his HOA—all because of a dispute over the definition of a “guest.” This case between owner George Lord and The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association is a masterclass in how quickly and completely an owner can lose when they misinterpret the rules and underestimate an association’s power.

For any homeowner or landlord, this dispute provides three crucial lessons distilled from the administrative court’s decision. Understanding these precedents is essential before you ever find yourself at odds with your own HOA.

Lesson 1: The “Spirit of the Rule” Can Outweigh Your Clever Workaround

The dispute began when the property owner, Mr. Lord, leased three condos to Barrie Shepley, who ran fitness training camps. Mr. Shepley then used the condos to house his camp attendees, often for periods shorter than the HOA’s 30-day minimum lease term.

The owner argued his arrangement complied with the rules. He claimed his tenant, Mr. Shepley, was not subleasing the units; the attendees were merely “guests,” and therefore not subject to the 30-day minimum. It was a clever workaround, but it fell apart under scrutiny for two distinct reasons.

First, the judge looked past the “guest” label to the financial substance of the arrangement. A key piece of evidence was the camp’s pricing: the cost changed based on how many campers shared a condo ($950 each for four campers vs. $1299 each for two). The judge saw this as clear proof that housing was being paid for, making it a form of subletting.

Second, the judge found that the arrangement constituted a prohibited business activity. The association’s CC&Rs (Section 7.3) explicitly forbade any business activity that “involve[s] persons coming to the Unit.” Since the fitness camp required attendees to come to the condos for lodging, it was a direct violation. The judge’s decision was therefore not just based on a subjective interpretation, but was also grounded in a concrete rule violation.

The court looked at the “totality of the circumstances” to make its ruling, a point powerfully summarized in the final decision:

However, given the totality of the circumstances, the spirit and purpose of the applicable rules is to allow an association to know who is in the community and to prevent an itinerant population.

Pro Tip: Before implementing a workaround, ask yourself: “Does this honor the community’s stated goal?” If the answer is no, you’re on thin ice, even if you think you’ve found a loophole.

Lesson 2: You Must Follow Procedure to the Letter, Or You Forfeit Your Rights

Confident in his “guest” interpretation, the homeowner made his next critical error by underestimating the importance of legal procedure. He argued that the HOA’s initial “Notice of Violations” was invalid because it failed to cite the specific CC&R provision that had allegedly been violated.

This argument was swiftly dismissed due to a simple but fatal mistake: the owner never sent a formal written response to the notice by certified mail.

Under Arizona law (A.R.S. § 33-1242), an owner’s formal written response via certified mail triggers the HOA’s obligation to provide the specific provision that was violated. Without that trigger, the HOA’s duty to explain further is never activated. The homeowner failed to pull the trigger. Because he did not follow this exact procedure, his claim was thrown out, and the HOA had no further legal obligation to detail its case.

Analyst’s Takeaway: In a legal dispute, communication that isn’t sent via the officially mandated channel (like certified mail) is legally equivalent to communication that never happened.

Lesson 3: The HOA’s Legal Fees Can Hit Your Wallet Sooner Than You Think

Early in the dispute, the owner received a letter from the HOA’s legal counsel. The letter outlined the association’s position and included a charge for $250.00. This was not a fine for the violation. It was a fee for the lawyer’s time, as explained in the letter:

“As you know, the Association is entitled to recover its costs and attorneys’ fees from you, including $250.00 already incurred for the preparation of this letter.”

Many governing documents contain clauses that allow an HOA to recover its “costs of enforcement.” This letter was an enforcement action, and the legal fee was the cost. The judge found that nothing in the law or CC&Rs prohibited the HOA from immediately passing this expense to the owner.

This initial charge was a precursor to a much larger financial blow. As an enforcement tool for the violations discussed in Lesson 1, the HOA suspended the tenants’ access to community amenities. This pressure tactic worked perfectly. The tenant, Mr. Shepley, cancelled his leases due to the lack of amenity access, leading to the owner’s stated loss of $6,900 in rental fees.

Pro Tip: Assume your HOA’s first legal letter starts a running tab. Budget for legal costs from day one of a formal dispute, not just for potential fines.

Conclusion: Knowledge is Your Best Defense

The case of Lord vs. The Boulders at La Reserve establishes three clear precedents for owners: a rule’s intent can supersede its literal interpretation, procedural shortcuts void your rights, and the financial clock starts ticking the moment an HOA retains counsel.

This case is a firm reminder of an HOA’s power to enforce its rules, but it also highlights the owner’s responsibility to understand them. It begs the question: In our own communities, are we fully aware of the rules we’ve agreed to live by?

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • George E. Lord (petitioner)

Respondent Side

  • Maria Kupillas (respondent attorney)
    Law offices of Farley, Choate & Bergin
  • Danielle Morris (community manager)
    The Boulders at La Reserve Condominium Association

Neutral Parties

  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
  • Judy Lowe (ADRE Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • LDettorre (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • AHansen (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • djones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • DGardner (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • ncano (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate

Other Participants

  • Barrie Shepley (renter/key individual)

John W. Gray vs. Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association

Case Summary

Case ID 19F-H1918004-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2018-11-30
Administrative Law Judge Kay Abramsohn
Outcome The Petitioner was deemed the prevailing party regarding the Respondent's violations of the CC&Rs and rules concerning parking enforcement. The Respondent was ordered to refund the Petitioner's $500.00 filing fee.
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner John W. Gray Counsel
Respondent Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association Counsel Austin Baillio, Esq.

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258

Outcome Summary

The Petitioner was deemed the prevailing party regarding the Respondent's violations of the CC&Rs and rules concerning parking enforcement. The Respondent was ordered to refund the Petitioner's $500.00 filing fee.

Key Issues & Findings

Failure to enforce parking rules (vehicle limits, garage use, inoperable vehicles)

Petitioner alleged that the HOA refused to enforce parking rules regarding vehicle limits, requiring use of garages for first cars, and banning inoperable or commercial vehicles, despite written complaints. The ALJ found the HOA failed to enforce these rules or issue proper notices/fines.

Orders: MCIII ordered to pay Petitioner his filing fee of $500.00 within thirty days of the Order.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • MCIII Rules and Regulations #2 and #3
  • MCIII CC&Rs 4.12
  • MCIII CC&Rs 4.13
  • MCIII CC&Rs 4.14

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA Enforcement, Parking Rules, Filing Fee Refund, Inoperable Vehicle, CC&R Violation
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199(1)
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119(A)
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119(B)(1)
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119(B)(2)
  • A.R.S. §32-2199.02(B)
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199.04
  • A.R.S. § 41-1092.09

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

19F-H1918004-REL Decision – 674057.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:15:17 (139.6 KB)

19F-H1918004-REL Decision – 674057.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:25:52 (139.6 KB)

Briefing Document: Gray v. Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association (Case No. 19F-H1918004-REL)

Executive Summary

This document provides a comprehensive analysis of the Administrative Law Judge Decision in the case of John W. Gray (Petitioner) versus the Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association (MCIII, Respondent). The central issue was MCIII’s failure to enforce its own Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and community rules regarding vehicle parking.

The Petitioner, Mr. Gray, presented credible and convincing evidence of widespread, ongoing parking violations by multiple residents, including exceeding vehicle limits, failing to use garages for primary parking, and the long-term storage of an inoperable vehicle in a common area parking space. The Respondent, MCIII, argued that the rules were difficult to enforce and that it had taken some action, including revising the rules shortly before the hearing.

The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) ultimately rejected MCIII’s defense, concluding that the association had demonstrably failed to enforce its governing documents. The ALJ found that MCIII had viable enforcement options, such as issuing notices and fines, which it did not utilize. The final order deemed the Petitioner the prevailing party and required MCIII to reimburse his $500 filing fee.

Case Overview

Parties Involved:

Petitioner: John W. Gray, owner of Unit 122 in the Mesa Coronado III Condominium development.

Respondent: Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association (MCIII), the unit owners’ association for the 33-unit development.

Adjudicating Body: The Office of Administrative Hearings, following a referral from the Arizona Department of Real Estate.

Hearing Date: October 29, 2018.

Decision Date: November 30, 2018.

Core Allegation: The Petitioner alleged that MCIII violated its own Rules, Regulations, and CC&Rs (specifically Articles 4.12, 4.13, and 4.14) by refusing to enforce parking rules despite receiving written complaints.

Background and Timeline of the Dispute

The conflict centered on parking within the MCIII development, which has 36 parking spaces for 33 units, with spaces being “open” and not assigned to specific units (with one exception).

Pre-existing Rules (Adopted Jan. 2002):

◦ Owners were limited to two cars per unit.

◦ The garage was considered the “assigned” parking for the first car.

◦ Inoperable vehicles were banned from the property.

◦ A system of warnings and fines was in place for rule violations.

May 17, 2018: Petitioner Gray submitted a formal written complaint to MCIII, identifying at least eight units in violation of parking rules. His complaint specified:

◦ Units with three cars were not using their garages for parking, instead using them for storage.

◦ An inoperable red truck had been stationary in the same parking spot for over a year.

◦ A commercial truck was present containing what he believed to be hazardous pool chemicals.

MCIII’s Initial Response: The association acknowledged a “history” with the parking situation and stated the Board would review the rules for revision. MCIII noted it would investigate the red truck and also accused the Petitioner of regularly parking his own truck in a fire lane.

July 16, 2018: The Petitioner sent a follow-up notification regarding the continuing violations.

MCIII’s Second Response: The association informed the Petitioner that the issue would be on the agenda for the July 24, 2018 Board meeting and again reminded him of his own alleged fire lane parking violations.

July 23, 2018: MCIII sent a notice to the owner of the unit associated with the inoperable red truck, informing them of the rules violation.

July 30, 2018: The Petitioner filed his formal petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate.

October 23, 2018: Days before the hearing, the MCIII Board adopted new parking rules.

Petitioner’s Case and Evidence (John W. Gray)

The Petitioner built a detailed case demonstrating a pattern of non-enforcement by MCIII. The ALJ found his evidence to be “credible and convincing.”

Specific Violations Alleged:

Excess Vehicles: Multiple units possessed more than the two-vehicle limit.

Garage Misuse: Residents with multiple cars were using common area parking spaces while their garages were used for storage.

Inoperable Vehicle: A red truck remained parked and inoperable in one space for over a year, in direct violation of CC&R 4.14.

Evidence Presented at Hearing:

Photographs: A series of exhibits (6 through 16) contained photographs documenting the various offending vehicles.

Private Investigation: The Petitioner hired a private investigator to obtain vehicle registration information to link specific vehicles to their owners and units (Exhibit 17).

Quantitative Analysis: The Petitioner calculated that just 12 units were occupying 27 common area parking spaces, leaving very few spaces for the remaining 21 units.

Written Correspondence: Copies of his complaints to MCIII were submitted, demonstrating that the association was put on notice of the violations.

Respondent’s Defense and Actions (MCIII)

The association’s defense centered on the difficulty of enforcement and subsequent actions taken after the Petitioner’s complaint.

Core Arguments:

Unenforceability: MCIII asserted that it was “almost impossible” to enforce the existing restrictive rules, as it would require constant 24/7 monitoring.

Lack of Prior Complaints: The Respondent claimed it had received no complaints about parking prior to Mr. Gray’s.

Issue is Moot: MCIII argued that its recent revision of the parking rules rendered the Petitioner’s complaint moot.

Actions Taken by MCIII:

Rule Revision: At the October 23, 2018 Board meeting, MCIII adopted new rules that eliminated the two-car limit but maintained the requirement for residents to use their garage first before occupying common area spaces. The ban on inoperable and commercial vehicles was also kept.

Enforcement Against Petitioner: The Respondent noted that it had previously taken enforcement action by having the Petitioner’s own truck towed for parking in a fire lane.

Notice Regarding Red Truck: MCIII provided evidence that it sent one letter on July 23, 2018, regarding the inoperable red truck.

Towing Contract: The association stated it had recently contracted with Shaffer Towing for towing services.

Community Manager Patrols: The “Community Manager,” Andrea Lacombe, testified that she drove through the property approximately twice a month looking for violations.

Governing Rules and CC&Rs

The decision rested on the specific language of the association’s governing documents in effect at the time of the complaint.

Document

Article/Rule

Provision

Rules & Regulations (Jan 2002)

Rule 3

Limits owners to two cars per unit and “assigns” the garage as parking for the first car.

CC&Rs (Jan 1999)

Art. 4.12

Prohibits the parking of commercial vehicles, RVs, boats, trailers, etc., on any part of the condominium outside of an enclosed garage.

CC&Rs (Jan 1999)

Art. 4.13

States that no parking space may be used for storage or any purpose other than parking of Family Vehicles. Grants the Board the right to assign spaces.

CC&Rs (Jan 1999)

Art. 4.14

Prohibits the storage of inoperable vehicles on any portion of the condominium other than within enclosed garages. Grants the Board the right to have violating vehicles towed.

Administrative Law Judge’s Decision and Rationale

The ALJ sided with the Petitioner, finding that MCIII had failed in its duty to enforce its own rules.

Rejection of MCIII’s Defense: The ALJ determined that MCIII’s argument that the rules were unenforceable was “not a viable defense.” The decision explicitly stated that the association could have used provisions for notification and fines to enforce the rules but failed to do so.

Evidence of Non-Enforcement: The hearing record demonstrated a clear failure by MCIII to act.

◦ The evidence was “undisputed” that the inoperable red truck had been in violation for over a year, yet MCIII only sent a single notice long after the complaint was filed.

◦ The ALJ noted that clearing even that one space would have improved the “tenuous parking situation.”

◦ The record contained no indication that MCIII had ever enforced the rules regarding the number of vehicles or the mandatory use of garages for primary parking.

◦ The only enforcement action cited, other than the single letter, was the towing of the Petitioner’s own vehicle.

Conclusion of Law: Based on the evidence, the ALJ concluded that “MCIII failed to enforce CC&Rs and rules and regulations regarding parking.” The revision of the rules just before the hearing did not negate the past failure to enforce the rules that were in effect at the time of the Petitioner’s complaint.

Final Order

Based on the findings of fact and conclusions of law, the Administrative Law Judge issued a binding order with two key provisions:

1. Prevailing Party: The Petitioner, John W. Gray, is officially deemed the prevailing party in the matter.

2. Reimbursement: MCIII is ordered to pay the Petitioner his filing fee of $500.00 within thirty (30) days of the order.

Study Guide: Gray v. Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association

This guide provides a detailed review of the Administrative Law Judge Decision in case No. 19F-H1918004-REL, concerning a dispute over the enforcement of parking regulations. It includes a short-answer quiz, an answer key, essay questions for deeper analysis, and a glossary of key terms.

Quiz: Short-Answer Questions

Answer each of the following questions in 2-3 complete sentences, based entirely on the provided source document.

1. Who were the primary parties involved in this case, and what were their respective roles?

2. What were the two main issues John W. Gray alleged in his petition filed with the Department on July 30, 2018?

3. According to the MCIII rules in effect at the time of the complaint, what were the primary restrictions placed on vehicle ownership and parking for residents?

4. Describe the key evidence the Petitioner presented at the hearing to substantiate his claims of widespread parking rule violations.

5. What was the Respondent’s primary defense for not enforcing the more restrictive parking rules that were in place at the time of the complaint?

6. How did the new rules, adopted on October 23, 2018, change the association’s approach to vehicle limits and garage use?

7. Explain the significance of the inoperable red truck to the Administrative Law Judge’s final decision.

8. What was the required standard of proof for the Petitioner in this case, and did the judge determine that he met it?

9. Prior to the hearing, what specific enforcement actions did MCIII take in response to the Petitioner’s documented complaints?

10. What was the final order issued by the Administrative Law Judge, and what was MCIII required to do?

Answer Key

1. The primary parties were John W. Gray, the Petitioner, who was a condominium owner in the MCIII development, and the Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association (MCIII), the Respondent and the governing unit owners’ association for the development. Mr. Gray initiated the legal action against the association for allegedly failing to enforce its rules.

2. The Petitioner’s two main allegations were that the association had failed to provide him with a copy of its management company agreement and that it refused to enforce its parking rules. He specifically alleged multiple units were violating rules regarding the number of vehicles and the presence of inoperable vehicles.

3. The rules in effect at the time of the complaint limited owners to a maximum of two cars per unit. The rules also “assigned” the garage as the designated parking spot for the first car and explicitly banned “inoperable” vehicles from the property.

4. The Petitioner presented credible evidence including photographs from multiple exhibits (6-16) showing numerous violations. He also testified based on his personal observations, identified specific units with three cars using garages for storage, and provided vehicle registration information obtained through a private investigator.

5. The Respondent defended its lack of enforcement by arguing that the existing restrictive rules were “almost impossible” to enforce without constant surveillance. The Community Manager also testified that she had received no prior complaints about parking from other residents.

6. The new rules, adopted October 23, 2018, removed the limit on the number of cars permitted per unit. However, they instituted a new requirement that owners must park their vehicles in their respective garages before using any common area parking spaces.

7. The inoperable red truck was significant because it had been parked in the same spot for over a year, serving as undisputed evidence of a long-standing violation. The judge noted that MCIII’s single letter to the owner, sent long after the violation began, demonstrated a clear failure to enforce its rules regarding inoperable vehicles.

8. The required standard of proof was a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning the Petitioner had to convince the judge that his contentions were more probably true than not. The judge concluded that the Petitioner successfully met this burden of proof.

9. MCIII’s primary enforcement actions were to place the issue on its July 24, 2018, Board meeting agenda and to send one letter on July 23, 2018, to the owner of the unit associated with the inoperable red truck. The record also shows MCIII had previously enforced parking rules against the Petitioner himself by having his truck towed from a fire lane.

10. The judge ordered that the Petitioner be deemed the prevailing party in the case. The judge further ordered that MCIII must pay the Petitioner his filing fee of $500.00 within thirty days of the order.

Essay Questions

The following questions are designed to promote deeper analysis of the case. Formulate comprehensive responses based on the facts and arguments presented in the source document.

1. Analyze the Respondent’s argument that revising the parking rules made the Petitioner’s complaints “moot.” Based on the judge’s decision, evaluate the strength of this defense and explain why it was ultimately unsuccessful.

2. Discuss the concept of a condominium association’s duty to enforce its own rules and CC&Rs, using the specific examples of MCIII’s actions (and inactions) from the case. How did the association’s selective enforcement—such as towing the Petitioner’s vehicle but not others—factor into the case’s context?

3. Evaluate the evidence presented by both the Petitioner and the Respondent. Which party presented a more compelling case, and why? Support your analysis by citing specific exhibits, testimony, and documented observations mentioned in the decision.

4. Explore the timeline of events from the Petitioner’s first complaint in May 2018 to the judge’s decision in November 2018. How does this timeline illustrate the dispute’s escalation and the association’s response strategy?

5. The Administrative Law Judge found that MCIII’s argument of the rules being “unenforceable” was not a viable defense. What practical enforcement actions, short of 24/7 surveillance, could the association have taken according to the information provided in the hearing record?

Glossary of Key Terms

Definition

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

The official who presides over the evidentiary hearing at the Office of Administrative Hearings and issues a decision. In this case, it was Kay Abramsohn.

Burden of Proof

The legal obligation of a party in a trial to produce evidence that proves the claims they have made against the other party.

Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. These are the governing legal documents that set up the guidelines for a planned community like a condominium. MCIII’s CC&Rs were effective January 12, 1999.

Common Elements

Also referred to as the “Common Area,” these are parts of the condominium property, such as the parking lot, available for use by all unit owners.

Community Manager

An employee of the management company (Curtiss Management) hired by the association to handle its affairs. In this case, the manager was Andrea Lacombe.

Evidentiary Hearing

A formal legal proceeding where parties present evidence (exhibits) and testimony to prove their case before a judge or hearing officer.

Inoperable Vehicle

A vehicle that cannot be operated. Both the old and new MCIII rules, as well as CC&R 4.14, prohibited storing such vehicles on the property outside of an enclosed garage.

A term used to describe an issue that is no longer in dispute or of practical significance. MCIII argued that its new rules made the Petitioner’s issues moot.

Petitioner

The party who initiates a legal action or files a petition. In this case, John W. Gray.

A map, drawn to scale, showing the divisions of a piece of land. The plat for MCIII showed there were 36 parking spaces in the lot.

Preponderance of the Evidence

The standard of proof required in this case. It is met if the proposition is more likely to be true than not true; it is a superior evidentiary weight that inclines an impartial mind to one side.

Prevailing Party

The party who is found to have won the legal case. The judge deemed the Petitioner to be the prevailing party.

Respondent

The party against whom a petition is filed; the defending party. In this case, the Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association.

He Fought the HOA Over Parking—and Won. Here Are the 5 Surprising Lessons from His Battle.

Introduction: The Familiar Frustration of HOA Parking

For anyone living in a condo, townhome, or planned community, the daily dance of parking is a familiar routine. It’s a world of limited spaces, confusing rules about guest parking, and the constant fear of a warning sticker or, worse, a tow truck. This shared frustration often simmers just below the surface of community life, where the rules established by a Homeowners Association (HOA) can feel arbitrary and inconsistently applied.

This post breaks down a real-life administrative court case where one resident, John W. Gray, took on his Condominium Association for its complete failure to enforce its own parking rules. Without getting lost in legal jargon, we will explore how a single, determined individual was able to hold his HOA accountable. This wasn’t just a simple disagreement; it was a formal challenge that went before a judge.

The official court decision in Gray’s favor offers powerful and surprising lessons for any homeowner, renter, or board member. This David vs. Goliath story is more than just a victory for one resident; it’s a practical guide filled with takeaways on how to effectively address community disputes and understand the true responsibilities of an HOA.

1. The ‘It’s Too Hard to Enforce’ Excuse Doesn’t Work

The association (MCIII) built its primary defense on the argument that its own parking rules were “almost impossible” to enforce. They claimed that the two-car limit per unit was too restrictive and would require constant, 24/7 monitoring and picture-taking, which was simply not feasible.

The administrative law judge completely rejected this excuse. The core lesson from the ruling is that an HOA cannot simply choose to ignore its governing documents because enforcement is inconvenient. The judge pointed out that the association had simpler tools at its disposal, such as issuing violation notices and levying fines as outlined in their rules, but failed to take even these basic steps.

The judge’s finding offers a powerful reality check for any board that feels overwhelmed by its own regulations:

MCIII’s argument that the rules were unenforceable is not a viable defense in this instance, as the rules contained many provisions that could have been noticed to the units regarding parking rules and their enforcement.

2. Meticulous Data is Your Strongest Weapon

John W. Gray didn’t just complain; he built an airtight case. His methodical approach to proving the association’s failure was a key factor in his success. The court record details the specific actions he took:

• He conducted personal observations and took photographs of the offending vehicles.

• He identified the specific units that had too many cars and were using their garages for storage instead of parking.

• He hired a private investigator to obtain vehicle registration information to definitively link cars to specific units.

The judge found this evidence to be “credible and convincing.” Gray’s detailed documentation painted a clear picture of the problem’s scale. According to his calculations, just 12 of the community’s 33 units were monopolizing 27 parking spaces, leaving very few for the remaining 21 units. This takeaway is clear: a well-documented, fact-based complaint is infinitely more powerful than anecdotal grievances.

3. Changing the Rules Doesn’t Erase Past Failures

In response to Gray’s formal complaint, the HOA Board took a strategic but ultimately unsuccessful step. Just days before the scheduled hearing, the Board reviewed and adopted a new set of parking rules. These new rules conveniently removed the two-car limit that the association had claimed was unenforceable.

The association then argued that this rule change made the petitioner’s original complaint “moot,” or irrelevant. They essentially claimed that since the rule he was complaining about no longer existed, there was no longer a case to be heard.

This strategy failed because the judge ruled on the HOA’s past failure to enforce the rules that were in effect at the time of the complaint. This is a crucial lesson in accountability. An organization cannot escape responsibility for its prior negligence simply by changing the rules at the last minute. The failure to act had already occurred, and the consequences of that failure were the basis of the lawsuit.

4. Ignoring Small Violations Can Create a Major Crisis

Nowhere was the HOA’s failure more obvious than in the case of a single inoperable red truck. The vehicle had been parked in the same spot for over a year, in clear violation of the rules prohibiting the storage of inoperable vehicles on the property.

Despite this long-term, visible violation, the hearing record shows the HOA’s response was both delayed and minimal. They sent only one letter to the unit owner about the truck, and this action was taken “long after” the violation began and only after Gray had formally complained.

The judge’s observation on this single vehicle underscores the wider impact of the board’s inaction:

Even the clearing of just one more space would have made the tenuous parking situation better.

The red truck was a symptom of a much larger disease. The failure to address one obvious, easily-proven violation demonstrated a systemic failure to manage the community’s shared resources, which directly contributed to the parking crisis and the disproportionate use of spaces by a few residents.

5. Enforcement Must Be Fair, Not Just Convenient

Perhaps the most telling detail from the hearing record was the apparent double standard in the HOA’s enforcement actions. The record explicitly mentions only two enforcement actions the association had taken regarding parking:

• Towing the petitioner’s own truck on one occasion for parking in a fire lane.

• Sending a single, very late letter about the red truck that had been parked for over a year.

The hearing record is devastatingly clear on this point. The only enforcement actions the board could point to were punitive or reactive: towing the truck of the very resident demanding action, and sending a single, belated letter about a year-old violation after he had filed a formal complaint. This wasn’t just inconsistent enforcement; it was a textbook case of selective enforcement that targeted the complainant while ignoring the systemic problem.

For an HOA’s authority to be respected and legally defensible, its rules must be applied fairly and consistently to all residents, not just when it is convenient or aimed at a perceived nuisance.

Conclusion: A Win for the Power of One

The judge’s order was a decisive victory for resident rights, affirming that an HOA’s duty to enforce its own rules is not optional. While the association was ordered to repay his $500 filing fee, the real prize was the validation that one resident, armed with credible evidence, can successfully hold a board accountable to the entire community. This case proves that meticulous documentation, persistence, and a refusal to be ignored are the great equalizers in community governance. It makes you wonder: what ‘unenforceable’ rules in your community are just waiting for a champion to demand they be followed?

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • John W. Gray (petitioner)
    Appeared on his own behalf

Respondent Side

  • Austin Baillio (attorney)
    Maxwell & Morgan PC
    Represented Mesa Coronado III Condominium Association
  • Andrea Lacombe (community manager)
    Curtiss Management
    Testified for Respondent

Neutral Parties

  • Kay Abramsohn (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Judy Lowe (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Felicia Del Sol (administrative staff)
    Transmitted decision electronically

Annette Cohen vs. CBS 136 Homeowners Association

Case Summary

Case ID 18F-H1818033-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2018-06-26
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome Petitioner was deemed the prevailing party because Respondent established a technical violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) by failing to provide requested documents within the 10-day limit. However, the Administrative Law Judge found a civil penalty was not appropriate given the circumstances.
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Annette Cohen Counsel
Respondent CBS 136 Homeowners Association Counsel Brian E. Ditsch

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Outcome Summary

Petitioner was deemed the prevailing party because Respondent established a technical violation of A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) by failing to provide requested documents within the 10-day limit. However, the Administrative Law Judge found a civil penalty was not appropriate given the circumstances.

Key Issues & Findings

Failure to provide requested association records within 10 business days

Petitioner requested sign-in sheets for the January 10, 2018, and February 15, 2018, CBS HOA meetings. Respondent acknowledged a technical violation of the statute by failing to provide the requested documents within the required 10-day timeframe, although they were ultimately provided prior to the hearing.

Orders: Respondent must comply with the applicable provisions of A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) in the future, and pay Petitioner her filing fee of $500.00 within thirty (30) days.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

Analytics Highlights

Topics: records request, failure to provide documents, condominium owners association, filing fee refund
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 32-2199 et seq.
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119
  • A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)
  • A.R.S. §32-2199.02(B)
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199.04
  • A.R.S. § 41-1092.09

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

18F-H1818033-REL Decision – 642888.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:11:47 (74.5 KB)

18F-H1818033-REL Decision – 655537.pdf

Uploaded 2026-04-24T11:11:50 (83.3 KB)

18F-H1818033-REL Decision – 642888.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:23:22 (74.5 KB)

18F-H1818033-REL Decision – 655537.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:23:25 (83.3 KB)

Administrative Hearing Briefing: Cohen v. CBS 136 Homeowners Association

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the findings and decision from the administrative hearing case Annette Cohen v. CBS 136 Homeowners Association (No. 18F-H1818033-REL). The core of the dispute was the Homeowners Association’s (HOA) failure to provide requested documents—specifically, meeting sign-in sheets—to a member, Annette Cohen, within the ten-business-day timeframe mandated by Arizona statute A.R.S. § 33-1258.

At the hearing, the Respondent HOA acknowledged this “technical violation,” attributing the delay to operational difficulties arising from a recent change in management companies. The Petitioner, Ms. Cohen, argued the delay was intentional and warranted a civil penalty.

The Administrative Law Judge, Tammy L. Eigenheer, found that the HOA did violate the statute. In the final order, the Judge declared Ms. Cohen the prevailing party and mandated future compliance by the HOA. While a civil penalty was deemed inappropriate under the circumstances, the Judge ordered the HOA to reimburse Ms. Cohen’s $500 filing fee.

Case Overview

Entity / Individual

Petitioner

Annette Cohen

Respondent

CBS 136 Homeowners Association (CBS)

Respondent’s Counsel

Brian Ditsch, Sacks Tierney P.A.

Respondent’s Mgmt. Co.

Key Witness

Susan Rubin (PRM)

Adjudicating Body

Office of Administrative Hearings, Phoenix, Arizona

Administrative Law Judge

Tammy L. Eigenheer

Case Number

18F-H1818033-REL

Hearing Date

June 6, 2018

Decision Date

June 26, 2018

Chronology of the Dispute

The dispute centered on two separate sets of document requests made by Petitioner Annette Cohen.

Request 1 (January 10 Meeting):

On or about Jan. 10, 2018: Ms. Cohen requested the sign-in sheets from the annual meeting held on this date.

Jan. 2018: The management company PRM took over management of the CBS 136 HOA.

Feb. 15, 2018: After more than a month, and after two scheduled review appointments were cancelled by the management company, the sign-in sheets were finally provided to Ms. Cohen by email.

Request 2 (February 15 Meeting):

Feb. 19, 2018: Ms. Cohen requested the sign-in sheets from the February 15, 2018 HOA meeting. Receipt of this request was acknowledged by PRM.

Feb. 21, 26, 27 & March 5, 2018: Ms. Cohen made repeated follow-up requests for the same information.

Formal Proceedings:

March 9, 2018: Ms. Cohen filed a formal petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate.

April 10, 2018: The Respondent HOA filed an answer denying all allegations.

June 6, 2018: An administrative hearing was held. The documents had been provided to Ms. Cohen at some point prior to this hearing.

June 26, 2018: The Administrative Law Judge issued the final decision.

Core Allegation and Legal Framework

Petitioner’s Allegation

Annette Cohen alleged that the CBS 136 Homeowners Association violated A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 16, Section 33-1258 by failing to provide association records for review and copying within the statutorily required timeframe.

Governing Statute: A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

The legal basis for the petition is Arizona Revised Statute § 33-1258(A), which governs a member’s right to access association records. The statute states, in relevant part:

“all financial and other records of the association shall be made reasonably available for examination by any member… The association shall have ten business days to fulfill a request for examination. On request for purchase of copies of records by any member… the association shall have ten business days to provide copies of the requested records. An association may charge a fee for making copies of not more than fifteen cents per page.”

The petitioner bears the burden of proving a violation by a preponderance of the evidence, defined as evidence that “shows that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not.”

Arguments and Evidence Presented at Hearing

Once the Respondent acknowledged the delay, the hearing focused solely on determining the appropriate remedy.

Petitioner’s Position (Annette Cohen)

Intentional Negligence: Ms. Cohen argued that the Respondent “intentionally ignored her request for the documents.”

Request for Penalty: Based on the belief of intentional neglect, she asserted that a civil penalty was an appropriate remedy.

Unreasonable Delay: She noted that the documents “could have easily been emailed to her within the 10 day deadline,” but that the HOA’s management company did not present this as an option until after the deadline had already passed.

Respondent’s Position (CBS 136 HOA)

Acknowledged Violation: At the June 6, 2018 hearing, the Respondent “acknowledged that the requested documents were not provided within the 10 day timeframe set forth in statute.”

Mitigating Circumstances: The defense centered on testimony from Susan Rubin of the management company, PRM. Ms. Rubin testified to the following:

◦ No requests are “ever purposefully ignored.”

◦ PRM had only taken over management of the HOA in January 2018.

◦ At the time of the requests, PRM was “still getting documents from the former management company.”

◦ The delay was not due to ignoring the request, but because it “took a little longer than expected to provide the documents.”

Administrative Law Judge’s Decision and Order

Findings and Conclusions

Violation Established: The Judge concluded there was “no dispute that Respondent failed to provide the requested documents within 10 days.” Therefore, the Petitioner “established by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258(A).”

Rejection of Civil Penalty: Despite the Petitioner’s argument, the Administrative Law Judge did “not find such a penalty to be appropriate given the circumstances in this matter.”

Final Order

The Judge issued a three-part order binding on the parties:

1. Prevailing Party: The Petitioner, Annette Cohen, is “deemed the prevailing party.”

2. Future Compliance: The Respondent, CBS 136 Homeowners Association, is ordered to “comply with the applicable provisions of A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) in the future.”

3. Reimbursement of Filing Fee: The Respondent must pay the Petitioner her filing fee of $500.00 directly to her within thirty (30) days of the order.

Study Guide: Cohen v. CBS 136 Homeowners Association

Short-Answer Quiz

Instructions: Please answer the following ten questions in 2-3 complete sentences, using only the information provided in the case documents.

1. Who were the primary parties involved in case No. 18F-H1818033-REL, and what were their respective roles?

2. What specific documents did the Petitioner, Annette Cohen, request from the Respondent?

3. According to the petition, what was the core legal violation alleged by Ms. Cohen against the Homeowners Association?

4. What was the timeline for the Respondent’s failure to produce the sign-in sheets from the January 10, 2018 meeting?

5. How did the Respondent initially respond to the petition after it was filed with the Arizona Department of Real Estate?

6. What admission did the Respondent make at the June 6, 2018 hearing?

7. What was the Respondent’s explanation for the delay in providing the requested documents to the Petitioner?

8. What remedy did the Petitioner argue was appropriate for the violation, and on what grounds?

9. What legal standard of proof was the Petitioner required to meet, and did the judge find that she met it?

10. What were the three components of the final Order issued by the Administrative Law Judge?

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Answer Key

1. The primary parties were Annette Cohen, who was the Petitioner, and the CBS 136 Homeowners Association, which was the Respondent. The Petitioner is the party who filed the complaint, and the Respondent is the party against whom the complaint was filed.

2. The Petitioner requested the sign-in sheets from two separate meetings. She requested the sign-in sheets from the January 10, 2018 annual meeting and the sign-in sheets from the February 15, 2018 CBS HOA meeting.

3. The core legal violation alleged by Ms. Cohen was that the Respondent had violated Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) Title 33, Chapter 16, Section 33-1258. This statute requires homeowner associations to provide requested records to members for examination or copying within a ten-business-day timeframe.

4. Ms. Cohen requested the January 10, 2018 sign-in sheets on or about that same date (January 10). She did not receive them via email until February 15, 2018, which is well beyond the ten-business-day limit stipulated by law.

5. On or about April 10, 2018, the Respondent filed an answer to the petition. In this official response, the Respondent denied all of the allegations made by the Petitioner.

6. At the June 6, 2018 hearing, the Respondent acknowledged its failure to comply with the law. The Respondent admitted that the requested documents were not provided within the 10-day timeframe set forth in the statute, constituting a technical violation.

7. The Respondent, through the testimony of Susan Rubin from its management company PRM, explained the delay was not intentional. Ms. Rubin stated that PRM had just taken over management of the HOA in January 2018 and was still in the process of getting documents from the former management company.

8. The Petitioner argued that a civil penalty was the appropriate remedy. She contended that the Respondent intentionally ignored her requests and could have easily emailed the documents within the deadline, but failed to do so until after the deadline had passed.

9. The Petitioner had the burden of proving her case by a “preponderance of the evidence.” The judge found that she successfully met this standard because there was no dispute that the Respondent failed to provide the documents within the required 10 days.

10. The three components of the final Order were: 1) The Petitioner, Annette Cohen, was deemed the prevailing party; 2) The Respondent was ordered to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) in the future; and 3) The Respondent was ordered to pay the Petitioner’s $500.00 filing fee within thirty days.

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Essay Questions

Instructions: The following questions are designed for longer, essay-format responses. Use the provided case documents to formulate a comprehensive analysis.

1. Analyze the arguments presented by both the Petitioner and the Respondent regarding the appropriate remedy for the acknowledged statutory violation. Evaluate the mitigating circumstances offered by the Respondent and discuss why the Administrative Law Judge may have found them persuasive enough to deny a civil penalty while still finding in favor of the Petitioner.

2. Discuss the legal framework governing disputes between property owners and condominium associations in Arizona as outlined in the case documents. Explain the roles of the Arizona Department of Real Estate and the Office of Administrative Hearings, and detail the specific requirements of A.R.S. § 33-1258(A).

3. Examine the concept of “preponderance of the evidence” as defined in the judge’s decision. Explain how the Petitioner successfully met this burden of proof, particularly in light of the Respondent’s initial denial of all allegations versus its later admission at the hearing.

4. Deconstruct the final Order issued by Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer. What were the three distinct parts of the Order, and what legal and practical purpose did each part serve in resolving the dispute, compensating the Petitioner, and ensuring future compliance by the Respondent?

5. Trace the procedural history of this case, creating a timeline of key events from Ms. Cohen’s first document request to the issuance of the final Order. Discuss the significance of each step, including the multiple requests, the petition filing, the Respondent’s answer, the hearing, and the final decision.

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Glossary of Key Terms

Definition

Administrative Law Judge

The official, in this case Tammy L. Eigenheer, who presides over hearings at the Office of Administrative Hearings and issues a decision.

A.R.S. § 33-1258(A)

The specific section of Arizona Revised Statutes cited in the case. It mandates that a homeowners association must make records available for member examination within ten business days and may charge up to fifteen cents per page for copies.

Burden of Proof

The obligation on a party in a legal proceeding to prove their assertions. In this case, the Petitioner bore the burden of proving the Respondent violated the statute.

CBS 136 Homeowners Association

The Respondent in the case; an association of condominium owners located in Sun City West, Arizona.

Department

The Arizona Department of Real Estate, the state agency with jurisdiction to hear disputes between property owners and condominium owners associations.

Findings of Fact

The section of the decision that outlines the factual history and evidence presented in the case, as determined by the judge.

Office of Administrative Hearings

The state office where the formal hearing on the petition was conducted.

Petitioner

The party who initiates a legal action by filing a petition. In this case, the Petitioner was Annette Cohen.

Preponderance of the Evidence

The standard of proof required for the Petitioner to win the case. It is defined as evidence that is more convincing and shows that the fact sought to be proved is “more probable than not.”

The management company that took over management of the CBS 136 Homeowners Association in January 2018.

Respondent

The party against whom a petition is filed. In this case, the Respondent was the CBS 136 Homeowners Association.

Technical Violation

An acknowledged infringement of a rule or statute where the substance of the rule may not have been maliciously violated. The Respondent admitted to a technical violation of the 10-day timeframe for document production.

Select all sources
642888.pdf
655537.pdf

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18F-H1818033-REL

2 sources

Both documents are identical excerpts from an Administrative Law Judge Decision from the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings, concerning a dispute between Annette Cohen (Petitioner) and the CBS 136 Homeowners Association (Respondent). The case, No. 18F-H1818033-REL, addressed the Petitioner’s claim that the Respondent violated A.R.S. § 33-1258(A) by failing to provide requested association meeting sign-in sheets within the mandated ten-day period. Though the Respondent acknowledged a technical violation of the statute, the Administrative Law Judge determined that a civil penalty was not appropriate given the circumstances, such as the change in management. Ultimately, the Petitioner was deemed the prevailing party, and the Respondent was ordered to comply with the statute in the future and reimburse the Petitioner’s $500.00 filing fee.

2 sources

Based on 2 sources

NotebookLM can be inaccurate; please double check its responses.

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Annette Cohen (petitioner)
    Appeared on her own behalf

Respondent Side

  • Brian Ditsch (respondent attorney)
    Sacks Tierney P.A.
  • Susan Rubin (witness)
    PRM (management company)
    Testified for Respondent

Neutral Parties

  • Tammy L. Eigenheer (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Judy Lowe (commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Recipient of decision notice

Other Participants

  • Felicia Del Sol (clerical staff)
    Transmitted the decision