George Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association

Case Summary

Case ID 25F-H025-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2025-05-05
Administrative Law Judge Samuel Fox
Outcome partial
Filing Fees Refunded $2,000.00
Civil Penalties $150.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner George Wolchko Counsel
Respondent Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association Counsel Christopher Duren

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1805
Bylaws, Article III, Section 4
CC&Rs, Section 4.04
Bylaws, Article IV, Section 1

Outcome Summary

The Petitioner prevailed on three of the four issues: Violation of AZ Law on Delivery of Community Documents (A.R.S. § 33-1805), Failure to Uphold CCRs Regarding Common Wall Repairs (Bylaws/CC&R violation), and operating with fewer than the minimum required number of board members (Bylaws violation). The Petitioner did not prevail on the issue regarding the Failure to Hold a Special HOA Meeting.

Why this result: Petitioner's request for an “emergency meeting” regarding the wall repair was deemed technically insufficient to qualify as a formal 'special meeting' petition under the Bylaws.

Key Issues & Findings

Violation of AZ Law on Delivery of Community Documents

The HOA failed to provide the Kachina Management contract within the required ten business days for examination or copies, despite numerous requests.

Orders: Respondent failed to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1805 by not making documents available for examination within ten business days of request.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes, Civil penalty: $50.00

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1805
  • Bylaws, Article X
  • CC&Rs, Section 9.07

Failure to Hold a Special HOA Meeting

The HOA failed to hold a special meeting requested by a valid petition signed by 25% of members, concerning common wall damage.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)
  • Bylaws, Article III, Section 4

Failure to Uphold CCRs Regarding Common Wall Repairs

The HOA refused to repair a common wall designated as a Common Element after damage was caused by an HOA-sanctioned electrician, failing their maintenance obligation.

Orders: The Board failed to maintain a Common Element (electrical conduit/wall area) in good repair after its hired contractor caused damage, violating Bylaws and CC&R obligations.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes, Civil penalty: $50.00

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • CC&Rs, Section 4.04
  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 3
  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)

Violations of HOA Elections Procedures and Community Documents (Failure to seat required number of board members)

The HOA Board violated governing documents by operating with only two members, failing to maintain the minimum required number of three directors.

Orders: Respondent violated Bylaws Article IV, Section 1 by not maintaining a Board of Directors composed of no fewer than three persons.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes, Civil penalty: $50.00

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 1
  • CC&Rs, Section 5.03

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA governance, Document request, Board composition, Common elements maintenance, Filing fee refund, Civil penalty
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1805
  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 1
  • CC&Rs, Section 4.04
  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 3
  • A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)




Briefing Doc – 25F-H025-REL


Briefing Document: Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the key proceedings, arguments, and outcomes of the administrative case George Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association, Case No. 25F-H025-REL, adjudicated by the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings. The Petitioner, George Wolchko, a homeowner, filed a four-issue petition against the Respondent, his Homeowners Association (HOA), alleging violations of Arizona statutes and the community’s governing documents.

The hearing, held on April 14, 2025, resulted in a mixed but largely favorable outcome for the Petitioner. The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) found the HOA in violation on three of the four claims:

1. Failure to Provide Documents: The HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1805 by not making its management contract with Kachina Management available within the legally mandated ten-business-day period.

2. Failure to Repair Common Wall: The HOA violated its own Bylaws and CC&Rs by failing its duty to maintain and repair a common element (an exterior wall and electrical conduit) after its hired contractor performed improper work, leaving a hole that was not weatherproof.

3. Failure to Fill Board Vacancy: The HOA violated its Bylaws, which mandate a board of no fewer than three members, by operating with only two directors since October 2024.

The HOA prevailed on one claim, Failure to Hold a Special Meeting, as the ALJ determined the Petitioner’s request, while clear in intent, was technically deficient under the Bylaws. The final order deemed Mr. Wolchko the prevailing party on three issues, ordering the HOA to reimburse him $1,500.00 in filing fees, to comply with community documents going forward, and levying a civil penalty of $150.00 against the Association.

Case Overview

Case Number

25F-H025-REL

Jurisdiction

Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)

Presiding Judge

Administrative Law Judge Samuel Fox

Hearing Date

April 14, 2025

Petitioner

George Wolchko

Respondent

Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association

Respondent’s Counsel

Christopher Duren (of Gottlieb Law, PLC)

Key Parties and Witnesses

George Wolchko: The Petitioner, owner of a home in the Victoria Manor community since 2018 and a former board member (2018-2023). Testified on his own behalf.

Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association: The Respondent, a planned community in Mesa, Arizona, consisting of eight units and seven owners.

Joseph Kidd: A current HOA board member, serving since November 2022. Testified for the Respondent.

Michael Mott: A current HOA board member. Was present at the hearing but did not testify.

Kachina Management, Inc.: The HOA’s management company, contracted in April 2024.

Chris Jones: Elected to the board in September 2024 but resigned shortly thereafter, creating the board vacancy at the heart of Claim 4.

Analysis of Claims, Evidence, and Findings

Claim 1: Violation of AZ Law on Delivery of Community Documents

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1805 and its governing documents by failing to provide a copy of the Kachina Management contract despite numerous requests beginning in May 2024.

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ Made his first formal email request for the contract on May 6, 2024. He followed up on May 12 and May 26.

◦ The management company, Kachina, responded on May 29, offering an in-person review on June 3 or 4.

◦ Wolchko testified that driving 45 minutes each way was not a “reasonably available” means of access, especially when a digital copy existed and he travels internationally. He noted the CC&Rs explicitly allow for delivery by mail.

◦ After canceling an in-person appointment due to an emergency, his repeated requests for a digital or mailed copy were met with insistence on in-person review.

◦ The contract was finally produced in February 2025, nearly a year after the initial request and only after the petition was filed.

Respondent’s Position:

◦ Argued that by offering in-person inspection at their office, they fulfilled their statutory obligation to make records “reasonably available for examination.”

◦ Emails from Kachina Management to Wolchko confirmed they had prepared the documents for his review on the dates offered. They stated Wolchko canceled the appointment and never rescheduled.

ALJ’s Finding: Violation Found. The ALJ concluded that more than ten business days passed between the initial request on May 6, 2024, and the date the documents were made available for examination on June 3, 2024. This delay constituted a failure to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1805.

Claim 2: Failure to Hold a Special HOA Meeting

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1804(A) and its Bylaws by failing to hold a special meeting requested via a valid petition signed by 25% of the members (Wolchko and Terrance Greer).

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ Submitted a formal, signed request on June 19, 2024, to hold an “emergency HOA meeting to address repairs on a community common wall.”

◦ He argued this was a valid petition for a special meeting and that the Board ignored it.

◦ The Respondent falsely claimed the meeting was held during the September annual meeting, but the annual meeting notice and minutes contained no mention of the special meeting’s purpose.

Respondent’s Position:

◦ Argued the request was for an “emergency meeting,” which, under statute, can only be called by the Board of Directors, not by member petition.

◦ Contended there is no provision in the governing documents for 25% of members to call an emergency meeting.

◦ Noted that at the annual meeting in September, Wolchko was explicitly asked if he had any issues to discuss and he declined.

ALJ’s Finding: No Violation. The ALJ found that although the intent was clearly to request a special meeting, the petition was technically deficient. It used the term “emergency meeting,” did not include a place for the meeting, and did not use the phrase “special meeting.” While a “mere technicality,” this was sufficient to deem the petition ineffective. The Respondent was deemed the prevailing party on this issue.

Claim 3: Failure to Uphold CCRs Regarding Common Wall Repairs

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA failed its duty to repair a common wall damaged by its own electrician in February 2024.

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ In February 2024, an HOA-hired contractor, Blue State Electric, performed work on an electrical conduit on his building’s exterior wall, which the board had previously designated a “true common area” with shared 50/50 maintenance costs.

◦ The work left a hole filled with foam that was not watertight. His immediate notification on March 15, 2024, was dismissed by board member Joseph Kidd, who claimed the hole was a pre-existing condition exposed by the work and therefore not the HOA’s responsibility.

◦ After months of the board refusing to act, he investigated the box himself, discovering an HOA wire running through his wall. He stated he only touched the box to prove it was an HOA issue after being told to “deal with it myself.”

◦ He disputed the validity of an $1,867 invoice from a second contractor (Canyon State), stating it was solicited by the board to blame him for damage he did not cause.

Respondent’s Testimony & Evidence (Kidd):

◦ The electrical box and conduit are common elements that serve four buildings.

◦ Wolchko is not a licensed Arizona electrician and had no authorization to touch the common element.

◦ Kidd testified that after Wolchko sent a video of himself pulling the box out, the board hired Canyon State to inspect it.

◦ He acknowledged offering to help Wolchko patch the stucco but denied authorizing any electrical work.

ALJ’s Finding: Violation Found. The ALJ determined that the preponderance of evidence supported that the “Board-hired electrician installed the wrong kind of box and left a section of the wall exposed without proper weather proofing.” Because the wall and electrical conduit were common elements, the board had a duty to maintain them in good repair. The board “declined to correct the problem its contractor caused,” thus violating the Bylaws and CC&Rs.

Claim 4: Failure to Maintain Required Number of Board Members

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA violated its Bylaws (Article IV, Section 1), which require a board of “no less than three (3) persons,” by operating with only two members.

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ Following the September 19, 2024 election, three members were elected: Joseph Kidd, Michael Mott, and Chris Jones.

◦ Chris Jones resigned almost immediately, leaving the board with two members.

◦ He argued that while the bylaws state a vacancy “may be filled” by the remaining directors, this grants authority, it does not waive the fundamental requirement of having at least three members.

◦ He noted that two other owners (himself and Terrance Greer), representing 25% of the HOA, were willing to serve, so the vacancy could be filled.

Respondent’s Testimony & Evidence (Kidd):

◦ Confirmed Jones resigned by early October 2024.

◦ Stated the board reached out to other members who expressed no interest in serving.

◦ Testified that Kachina Management advised them that filling the seat was at their discretion.

◦ The Respondent’s legal argument was that the Bylaw’s use of the word “may” (“may be filled”) makes filling the vacancy optional, not mandatory.

ALJ’s Finding: Violation Found. The ALJ was “not persuasive” by the Respondent’s argument. The decision states: “This provision allows for the appointment, rather than the election, of a Director to a vacant seat. It does not absolve the Board from having the minimum number of Directors.” The preponderance of evidence established that the HOA violated its Bylaws by not having enough Board members.

Final Decision and Order

Prevailing Party: George Wolchko was deemed the prevailing party on Petition Issues 1, 3, and 4. Victoria Manor was deemed the prevailing party on Issue 2.

Reimbursement: The Respondent was ordered to pay the Petitioner $1,500.00 for filing fees within thirty days.

Compliance: The Respondent was directed to “comply with the requirements of its Community Documents going forward.”

Civil Penalty: A civil penalty of $150.00 was levied against the Respondent.

Decision Date: May 5, 2025.


Questions

Question

How long does the HOA have to provide records after I request them?

Short Answer

The HOA has ten business days to fulfill a request to examine or provide copies of records.

Detailed Answer

Under A.R.S. § 33-1805, an association must strictly adhere to a ten-business-day timeframe. In this case, providing access nearly a month after the initial request was found to be a violation of state law.

Alj Quote

A.R.S. § 33-1805 provides an association 'ten business days to fulfill a request for examination' or 'to provide copies of the requested records.' … More than ten business days passed between May 6, 2024, and June 3, 2024. Petitioner demonstrated by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent, through Kachina, failed to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1805.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1805

Topic Tags

  • records request
  • deadlines
  • HOA obligations

Question

Can homeowners call an 'emergency meeting' regarding repairs?

Short Answer

Generally, no. Homeowners should request a 'special meeting' instead, as 'emergency meetings' are typically reserved for the Board.

Detailed Answer

While homeowners may petition for a meeting, using the correct terminology is critical. In this case, a petition for an 'emergency meeting' was deemed ineffective because that specific type of meeting is a Board function, whereas homeowners are authorized to request 'special meetings'.

Alj Quote

In the context of the communications about this meeting, it is clear that Petitioner was requesting a 'special meeting' not an 'emergency meeting,' which can only be called by the Board.

Legal Basis

Bylaws

Topic Tags

  • meetings
  • procedure
  • homeowner rights

Question

What specific details must be included in a petition for a special meeting?

Short Answer

The petition must usually include the date, hour, place of the meeting, and the specific purpose or topic.

Detailed Answer

Failure to include all technical details required by the Bylaws—such as the specific place of the meeting or the correct label ('special meeting')—can render a petition invalid, even if it has the required number of signatures.

Alj Quote

The petition did not include a place for the meeting, the topic to be discussed, or the phrase 'special meeting.' … Petitioner’s special meeting request did not fully comply with the requirements of the Bylaws. Although it is a mere technicality, it is sufficient to deem the petition for a special meeting ineffective.

Legal Basis

Bylaws Article III, Section 4

Topic Tags

  • meetings
  • petitions
  • technicalities

Question

Is the HOA responsible if a contractor they hired does poor work on a common element?

Short Answer

Yes. The HOA has a duty to maintain common elements and correct problems caused by their contractors.

Detailed Answer

If an HOA-hired contractor installs incorrect equipment or leaves a common element exposed to damage (like weather), the Board cannot decline to fix it. They retain the obligation to maintain the area in good repair.

Alj Quote

The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board-hired electrician installed the wrong kind of box and left a section of the wall exposed without proper weather proofing… The Board declined to correct the problem its contractor caused… The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board failed to maintain this area in good repair in violation of the Bylaws and CC&R.

Legal Basis

Bylaws Article IV, Section 3; CC&R Section 4.05(2)

Topic Tags

  • maintenance
  • common elements
  • contractors

Question

Can the HOA Board operate with fewer members than the Bylaws require?

Short Answer

No. If the Bylaws state a minimum number of directors, the Board must maintain that number.

Detailed Answer

The Board cannot choose to operate with fewer directors than mandated. In this case, operating with two directors when the Bylaws required a minimum of three was a violation.

Alj Quote

Article IV, section 1 of the Bylaws require a Board of no fewer than three people. The preponderance of the evidence established that the Board has consisted of two people for some time… The preponderance of the evidence supports that Respondent violated the Bylaws by not having enough Board members.

Legal Basis

Bylaws Article IV, Section 1

Topic Tags

  • board composition
  • bylaws
  • vacancies

Question

Does a Bylaw saying a vacancy 'may be filled' mean the Board can choose to leave a seat empty?

Short Answer

No. That language typically describes the method of filling the seat (appointment) rather than permission to leave it vacant below the required minimum.

Detailed Answer

HOAs cannot use the word 'may' in vacancy provisions to justify ignoring minimum board size requirements. The provision allows for appointment rather than election to fill the spot, but does not absolve the Board of the duty to have the required number of members.

Alj Quote

Respondent argued that Section 5, Vacancies does not require the Board to fill a vacant position… This argument was not persuasive. This provision allows for the appointment, rather than the election, of a Director to a vacant seat. It does not absolve the Board from having the minimum number of Directors.

Legal Basis

Bylaws

Topic Tags

  • legal interpretation
  • board vacancies
  • bylaws

Question

If I win my hearing against the HOA, can I get my filing fee back?

Short Answer

Yes, the Administrative Law Judge can order the HOA to reimburse the petitioner for the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

In this decision, the HOA was ordered to pay the $1,500.00 filing fee directly to the homeowners within 30 days because the homeowners prevailed on the majority of their issues.

Alj Quote

IT IS ORDERED that Respondent pay Petitioners the filing fee of $1,500.00, to be paid directly to Petitioners within thirty (30) days of this Order.

Legal Basis

Administrative Order

Topic Tags

  • reimbursement
  • fees
  • penalties

Question

Can the HOA be fined for these violations?

Short Answer

Yes, a civil penalty may be levied, though it may be a nominal amount compared to the filing fees.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ has the authority to levy civil penalties for violations of statutes or community documents. In this specific case, a penalty of $150.00 was deemed appropriate.

Alj Quote

A Civil Penalty of $150.00 is found to be appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 32-2199.02

Topic Tags

  • fines
  • civil penalty
  • enforcement

Case

Docket No

25F-H025-REL

Case Title

George Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association

Decision Date

2025-05-05

Alj Name

Samuel Fox

Tribunal

OAH

Agency

ADRE

Questions

Question

How long does the HOA have to provide records after I request them?

Short Answer

The HOA has ten business days to fulfill a request to examine or provide copies of records.

Detailed Answer

Under A.R.S. § 33-1805, an association must strictly adhere to a ten-business-day timeframe. In this case, providing access nearly a month after the initial request was found to be a violation of state law.

Alj Quote

A.R.S. § 33-1805 provides an association 'ten business days to fulfill a request for examination' or 'to provide copies of the requested records.' … More than ten business days passed between May 6, 2024, and June 3, 2024. Petitioner demonstrated by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent, through Kachina, failed to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1805.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 33-1805

Topic Tags

  • records request
  • deadlines
  • HOA obligations

Question

Can homeowners call an 'emergency meeting' regarding repairs?

Short Answer

Generally, no. Homeowners should request a 'special meeting' instead, as 'emergency meetings' are typically reserved for the Board.

Detailed Answer

While homeowners may petition for a meeting, using the correct terminology is critical. In this case, a petition for an 'emergency meeting' was deemed ineffective because that specific type of meeting is a Board function, whereas homeowners are authorized to request 'special meetings'.

Alj Quote

In the context of the communications about this meeting, it is clear that Petitioner was requesting a 'special meeting' not an 'emergency meeting,' which can only be called by the Board.

Legal Basis

Bylaws

Topic Tags

  • meetings
  • procedure
  • homeowner rights

Question

What specific details must be included in a petition for a special meeting?

Short Answer

The petition must usually include the date, hour, place of the meeting, and the specific purpose or topic.

Detailed Answer

Failure to include all technical details required by the Bylaws—such as the specific place of the meeting or the correct label ('special meeting')—can render a petition invalid, even if it has the required number of signatures.

Alj Quote

The petition did not include a place for the meeting, the topic to be discussed, or the phrase 'special meeting.' … Petitioner’s special meeting request did not fully comply with the requirements of the Bylaws. Although it is a mere technicality, it is sufficient to deem the petition for a special meeting ineffective.

Legal Basis

Bylaws Article III, Section 4

Topic Tags

  • meetings
  • petitions
  • technicalities

Question

Is the HOA responsible if a contractor they hired does poor work on a common element?

Short Answer

Yes. The HOA has a duty to maintain common elements and correct problems caused by their contractors.

Detailed Answer

If an HOA-hired contractor installs incorrect equipment or leaves a common element exposed to damage (like weather), the Board cannot decline to fix it. They retain the obligation to maintain the area in good repair.

Alj Quote

The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board-hired electrician installed the wrong kind of box and left a section of the wall exposed without proper weather proofing… The Board declined to correct the problem its contractor caused… The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board failed to maintain this area in good repair in violation of the Bylaws and CC&R.

Legal Basis

Bylaws Article IV, Section 3; CC&R Section 4.05(2)

Topic Tags

  • maintenance
  • common elements
  • contractors

Question

Can the HOA Board operate with fewer members than the Bylaws require?

Short Answer

No. If the Bylaws state a minimum number of directors, the Board must maintain that number.

Detailed Answer

The Board cannot choose to operate with fewer directors than mandated. In this case, operating with two directors when the Bylaws required a minimum of three was a violation.

Alj Quote

Article IV, section 1 of the Bylaws require a Board of no fewer than three people. The preponderance of the evidence established that the Board has consisted of two people for some time… The preponderance of the evidence supports that Respondent violated the Bylaws by not having enough Board members.

Legal Basis

Bylaws Article IV, Section 1

Topic Tags

  • board composition
  • bylaws
  • vacancies

Question

Does a Bylaw saying a vacancy 'may be filled' mean the Board can choose to leave a seat empty?

Short Answer

No. That language typically describes the method of filling the seat (appointment) rather than permission to leave it vacant below the required minimum.

Detailed Answer

HOAs cannot use the word 'may' in vacancy provisions to justify ignoring minimum board size requirements. The provision allows for appointment rather than election to fill the spot, but does not absolve the Board of the duty to have the required number of members.

Alj Quote

Respondent argued that Section 5, Vacancies does not require the Board to fill a vacant position… This argument was not persuasive. This provision allows for the appointment, rather than the election, of a Director to a vacant seat. It does not absolve the Board from having the minimum number of Directors.

Legal Basis

Bylaws

Topic Tags

  • legal interpretation
  • board vacancies
  • bylaws

Question

If I win my hearing against the HOA, can I get my filing fee back?

Short Answer

Yes, the Administrative Law Judge can order the HOA to reimburse the petitioner for the filing fee.

Detailed Answer

In this decision, the HOA was ordered to pay the $1,500.00 filing fee directly to the homeowners within 30 days because the homeowners prevailed on the majority of their issues.

Alj Quote

IT IS ORDERED that Respondent pay Petitioners the filing fee of $1,500.00, to be paid directly to Petitioners within thirty (30) days of this Order.

Legal Basis

Administrative Order

Topic Tags

  • reimbursement
  • fees
  • penalties

Question

Can the HOA be fined for these violations?

Short Answer

Yes, a civil penalty may be levied, though it may be a nominal amount compared to the filing fees.

Detailed Answer

The ALJ has the authority to levy civil penalties for violations of statutes or community documents. In this specific case, a penalty of $150.00 was deemed appropriate.

Alj Quote

A Civil Penalty of $150.00 is found to be appropriate in this matter.

Legal Basis

A.R.S. § 32-2199.02

Topic Tags

  • fines
  • civil penalty
  • enforcement

Case

Docket No

25F-H025-REL

Case Title

George Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association

Decision Date

2025-05-05

Alj Name

Samuel Fox

Tribunal

OAH

Agency

ADRE

George Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners

Case Summary

Case ID 25F-H025-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2025-05-05
Administrative Law Judge Samuel Fox
Outcome partial
Filing Fees Refunded $2,000.00
Civil Penalties $150.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner George Wolchko Counsel
Respondent Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association Counsel Christopher Duren

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1805
Bylaws, Article III, Section 4
CC&Rs, Section 4.04
Bylaws, Article IV, Section 1

Outcome Summary

The Petitioner prevailed on three of the four issues: Violation of AZ Law on Delivery of Community Documents (A.R.S. § 33-1805), Failure to Uphold CCRs Regarding Common Wall Repairs (Bylaws/CC&R violation), and operating with fewer than the minimum required number of board members (Bylaws violation). The Petitioner did not prevail on the issue regarding the Failure to Hold a Special HOA Meeting.

Why this result: Petitioner's request for an “emergency meeting” regarding the wall repair was deemed technically insufficient to qualify as a formal 'special meeting' petition under the Bylaws.

Key Issues & Findings

Violation of AZ Law on Delivery of Community Documents

The HOA failed to provide the Kachina Management contract within the required ten business days for examination or copies, despite numerous requests.

Orders: Respondent failed to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1805 by not making documents available for examination within ten business days of request.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes, Civil penalty: $50.00

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1805
  • Bylaws, Article X
  • CC&Rs, Section 9.07

Failure to Hold a Special HOA Meeting

The HOA failed to hold a special meeting requested by a valid petition signed by 25% of members, concerning common wall damage.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)
  • Bylaws, Article III, Section 4

Failure to Uphold CCRs Regarding Common Wall Repairs

The HOA refused to repair a common wall designated as a Common Element after damage was caused by an HOA-sanctioned electrician, failing their maintenance obligation.

Orders: The Board failed to maintain a Common Element (electrical conduit/wall area) in good repair after its hired contractor caused damage, violating Bylaws and CC&R obligations.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes, Civil penalty: $50.00

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • CC&Rs, Section 4.04
  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 3
  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)

Violations of HOA Elections Procedures and Community Documents (Failure to seat required number of board members)

The HOA Board violated governing documents by operating with only two members, failing to maintain the minimum required number of three directors.

Orders: Respondent violated Bylaws Article IV, Section 1 by not maintaining a Board of Directors composed of no fewer than three persons.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes, Civil penalty: $50.00

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 1
  • CC&Rs, Section 5.03

Analytics Highlights

Topics: HOA governance, Document request, Board composition, Common elements maintenance, Filing fee refund, Civil penalty
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1805
  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 1
  • CC&Rs, Section 4.04
  • Bylaws, Article IV, Section 3
  • A.R.S. § 33-1804(A)

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

25F-H025-REL Decision – 1268559.pdf

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25F-H025-REL Decision – 1276022.pdf

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25F-H025-REL Decision – 1276027.pdf

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25F-H025-REL Decision – 1282178.pdf

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25F-H025-REL Decision – 1288973.pdf

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25F-H025-REL Decision – 1290761.pdf

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25F-H025-REL Decision – 1301417.pdf

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Briefing Doc – 25F-H025-REL


Briefing Document: Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association

Executive Summary

This document synthesizes the key proceedings, arguments, and outcomes of the administrative case George Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association, Case No. 25F-H025-REL, adjudicated by the Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings. The Petitioner, George Wolchko, a homeowner, filed a four-issue petition against the Respondent, his Homeowners Association (HOA), alleging violations of Arizona statutes and the community’s governing documents.

The hearing, held on April 14, 2025, resulted in a mixed but largely favorable outcome for the Petitioner. The Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) found the HOA in violation on three of the four claims:

1. Failure to Provide Documents: The HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1805 by not making its management contract with Kachina Management available within the legally mandated ten-business-day period.

2. Failure to Repair Common Wall: The HOA violated its own Bylaws and CC&Rs by failing its duty to maintain and repair a common element (an exterior wall and electrical conduit) after its hired contractor performed improper work, leaving a hole that was not weatherproof.

3. Failure to Fill Board Vacancy: The HOA violated its Bylaws, which mandate a board of no fewer than three members, by operating with only two directors since October 2024.

The HOA prevailed on one claim, Failure to Hold a Special Meeting, as the ALJ determined the Petitioner’s request, while clear in intent, was technically deficient under the Bylaws. The final order deemed Mr. Wolchko the prevailing party on three issues, ordering the HOA to reimburse him $1,500.00 in filing fees, to comply with community documents going forward, and levying a civil penalty of $150.00 against the Association.

Case Overview

Case Number

25F-H025-REL

Jurisdiction

Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)

Presiding Judge

Administrative Law Judge Samuel Fox

Hearing Date

April 14, 2025

Petitioner

George Wolchko

Respondent

Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association

Respondent’s Counsel

Christopher Duren (of Gottlieb Law, PLC)

Key Parties and Witnesses

George Wolchko: The Petitioner, owner of a home in the Victoria Manor community since 2018 and a former board member (2018-2023). Testified on his own behalf.

Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association: The Respondent, a planned community in Mesa, Arizona, consisting of eight units and seven owners.

Joseph Kidd: A current HOA board member, serving since November 2022. Testified for the Respondent.

Michael Mott: A current HOA board member. Was present at the hearing but did not testify.

Kachina Management, Inc.: The HOA’s management company, contracted in April 2024.

Chris Jones: Elected to the board in September 2024 but resigned shortly thereafter, creating the board vacancy at the heart of Claim 4.

Analysis of Claims, Evidence, and Findings

Claim 1: Violation of AZ Law on Delivery of Community Documents

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1805 and its governing documents by failing to provide a copy of the Kachina Management contract despite numerous requests beginning in May 2024.

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ Made his first formal email request for the contract on May 6, 2024. He followed up on May 12 and May 26.

◦ The management company, Kachina, responded on May 29, offering an in-person review on June 3 or 4.

◦ Wolchko testified that driving 45 minutes each way was not a “reasonably available” means of access, especially when a digital copy existed and he travels internationally. He noted the CC&Rs explicitly allow for delivery by mail.

◦ After canceling an in-person appointment due to an emergency, his repeated requests for a digital or mailed copy were met with insistence on in-person review.

◦ The contract was finally produced in February 2025, nearly a year after the initial request and only after the petition was filed.

Respondent’s Position:

◦ Argued that by offering in-person inspection at their office, they fulfilled their statutory obligation to make records “reasonably available for examination.”

◦ Emails from Kachina Management to Wolchko confirmed they had prepared the documents for his review on the dates offered. They stated Wolchko canceled the appointment and never rescheduled.

ALJ’s Finding: Violation Found. The ALJ concluded that more than ten business days passed between the initial request on May 6, 2024, and the date the documents were made available for examination on June 3, 2024. This delay constituted a failure to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1805.

Claim 2: Failure to Hold a Special HOA Meeting

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1804(A) and its Bylaws by failing to hold a special meeting requested via a valid petition signed by 25% of the members (Wolchko and Terrance Greer).

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ Submitted a formal, signed request on June 19, 2024, to hold an “emergency HOA meeting to address repairs on a community common wall.”

◦ He argued this was a valid petition for a special meeting and that the Board ignored it.

◦ The Respondent falsely claimed the meeting was held during the September annual meeting, but the annual meeting notice and minutes contained no mention of the special meeting’s purpose.

Respondent’s Position:

◦ Argued the request was for an “emergency meeting,” which, under statute, can only be called by the Board of Directors, not by member petition.

◦ Contended there is no provision in the governing documents for 25% of members to call an emergency meeting.

◦ Noted that at the annual meeting in September, Wolchko was explicitly asked if he had any issues to discuss and he declined.

ALJ’s Finding: No Violation. The ALJ found that although the intent was clearly to request a special meeting, the petition was technically deficient. It used the term “emergency meeting,” did not include a place for the meeting, and did not use the phrase “special meeting.” While a “mere technicality,” this was sufficient to deem the petition ineffective. The Respondent was deemed the prevailing party on this issue.

Claim 3: Failure to Uphold CCRs Regarding Common Wall Repairs

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA failed its duty to repair a common wall damaged by its own electrician in February 2024.

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ In February 2024, an HOA-hired contractor, Blue State Electric, performed work on an electrical conduit on his building’s exterior wall, which the board had previously designated a “true common area” with shared 50/50 maintenance costs.

◦ The work left a hole filled with foam that was not watertight. His immediate notification on March 15, 2024, was dismissed by board member Joseph Kidd, who claimed the hole was a pre-existing condition exposed by the work and therefore not the HOA’s responsibility.

◦ After months of the board refusing to act, he investigated the box himself, discovering an HOA wire running through his wall. He stated he only touched the box to prove it was an HOA issue after being told to “deal with it myself.”

◦ He disputed the validity of an $1,867 invoice from a second contractor (Canyon State), stating it was solicited by the board to blame him for damage he did not cause.

Respondent’s Testimony & Evidence (Kidd):

◦ The electrical box and conduit are common elements that serve four buildings.

◦ Wolchko is not a licensed Arizona electrician and had no authorization to touch the common element.

◦ Kidd testified that after Wolchko sent a video of himself pulling the box out, the board hired Canyon State to inspect it.

◦ He acknowledged offering to help Wolchko patch the stucco but denied authorizing any electrical work.

ALJ’s Finding: Violation Found. The ALJ determined that the preponderance of evidence supported that the “Board-hired electrician installed the wrong kind of box and left a section of the wall exposed without proper weather proofing.” Because the wall and electrical conduit were common elements, the board had a duty to maintain them in good repair. The board “declined to correct the problem its contractor caused,” thus violating the Bylaws and CC&Rs.

Claim 4: Failure to Maintain Required Number of Board Members

Petitioner’s Allegation: The HOA violated its Bylaws (Article IV, Section 1), which require a board of “no less than three (3) persons,” by operating with only two members.

Petitioner’s Testimony & Evidence (Wolchko):

◦ Following the September 19, 2024 election, three members were elected: Joseph Kidd, Michael Mott, and Chris Jones.

◦ Chris Jones resigned almost immediately, leaving the board with two members.

◦ He argued that while the bylaws state a vacancy “may be filled” by the remaining directors, this grants authority, it does not waive the fundamental requirement of having at least three members.

◦ He noted that two other owners (himself and Terrance Greer), representing 25% of the HOA, were willing to serve, so the vacancy could be filled.

Respondent’s Testimony & Evidence (Kidd):

◦ Confirmed Jones resigned by early October 2024.

◦ Stated the board reached out to other members who expressed no interest in serving.

◦ Testified that Kachina Management advised them that filling the seat was at their discretion.

◦ The Respondent’s legal argument was that the Bylaw’s use of the word “may” (“may be filled”) makes filling the vacancy optional, not mandatory.

ALJ’s Finding: Violation Found. The ALJ was “not persuasive” by the Respondent’s argument. The decision states: “This provision allows for the appointment, rather than the election, of a Director to a vacant seat. It does not absolve the Board from having the minimum number of Directors.” The preponderance of evidence established that the HOA violated its Bylaws by not having enough Board members.

Final Decision and Order

Prevailing Party: George Wolchko was deemed the prevailing party on Petition Issues 1, 3, and 4. Victoria Manor was deemed the prevailing party on Issue 2.

Reimbursement: The Respondent was ordered to pay the Petitioner $1,500.00 for filing fees within thirty days.

Compliance: The Respondent was directed to “comply with the requirements of its Community Documents going forward.”

Civil Penalty: A civil penalty of $150.00 was levied against the Respondent.

Decision Date: May 5, 2025.






Study Guide – 25F-H025-REL


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In this case, a petition for an ’emergency meeting’ was deemed ineffective because that specific type of meeting is a Board function, whereas homeowners are authorized to request ‘special meetings’.”, “alj_quote”: “In the context of the communications about this meeting, it is clear that Petitioner was requesting a ‘special meeting’ not an ’emergency meeting,’ which can only be called by the Board.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws”, “topic_tags”: [ “meetings”, “procedure”, “homeowner rights” ] }, { “question”: “What specific details must be included in a petition for a special meeting?”, “short_answer”: “The petition must usually include the date, hour, place of the meeting, and the specific purpose or topic.”, “detailed_answer”: “Failure to include all technical details required by the Bylaws—such as the specific place of the meeting or the correct label (‘special meeting’)—can render a petition invalid, even if it has the required number of signatures.”, “alj_quote”: “The petition did not include a place for the meeting, the topic to be discussed, or the phrase ‘special meeting.’ … Petitioner’s special meeting request did not fully comply with the requirements of the Bylaws. Although it is a mere technicality, it is sufficient to deem the petition for a special meeting ineffective.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws Article III, Section 4”, “topic_tags”: [ “meetings”, “petitions”, “technicalities” ] }, { “question”: “Is the HOA responsible if a contractor they hired does poor work on a common element?”, “short_answer”: “Yes. The HOA has a duty to maintain common elements and correct problems caused by their contractors.”, “detailed_answer”: “If an HOA-hired contractor installs incorrect equipment or leaves a common element exposed to damage (like weather), the Board cannot decline to fix it. They retain the obligation to maintain the area in good repair.”, “alj_quote”: “The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board-hired electrician installed the wrong kind of box and left a section of the wall exposed without proper weather proofing… The Board declined to correct the problem its contractor caused… The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board failed to maintain this area in good repair in violation of the Bylaws and CC&R.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws Article IV, Section 3; CC&R Section 4.05(2)”, “topic_tags”: [ “maintenance”, “common elements”, “contractors” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA Board operate with fewer members than the Bylaws require?”, “short_answer”: “No. If the Bylaws state a minimum number of directors, the Board must maintain that number.”, “detailed_answer”: “The Board cannot choose to operate with fewer directors than mandated. In this case, operating with two directors when the Bylaws required a minimum of three was a violation.”, “alj_quote”: “Article IV, section 1 of the Bylaws require a Board of no fewer than three people. The preponderance of the evidence established that the Board has consisted of two people for some time… The preponderance of the evidence supports that Respondent violated the Bylaws by not having enough Board members.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws Article IV, Section 1”, “topic_tags”: [ “board composition”, “bylaws”, “vacancies” ] }, { “question”: “Does a Bylaw saying a vacancy ‘may be filled’ mean the Board can choose to leave a seat empty?”, “short_answer”: “No. That language typically describes the method of filling the seat (appointment) rather than permission to leave it vacant below the required minimum.”, “detailed_answer”: “HOAs cannot use the word ‘may’ in vacancy provisions to justify ignoring minimum board size requirements. The provision allows for appointment rather than election to fill the spot, but does not absolve the Board of the duty to have the required number of members.”, “alj_quote”: “Respondent argued that Section 5, Vacancies does not require the Board to fill a vacant position… This argument was not persuasive. This provision allows for the appointment, rather than the election, of a Director to a vacant seat. It does not absolve the Board from having the minimum number of Directors.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws”, “topic_tags”: [ “legal interpretation”, “board vacancies”, “bylaws” ] }, { “question”: “If I win my hearing against the HOA, can I get my filing fee back?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, the Administrative Law Judge can order the HOA to reimburse the petitioner for the filing fee.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this decision, the HOA was ordered to pay the $1,500.00 filing fee directly to the homeowners within 30 days because the homeowners prevailed on the majority of their issues.”, “alj_quote”: “IT IS ORDERED that Respondent pay Petitioners the filing fee of $1,500.00, to be paid directly to Petitioners within thirty (30) days of this Order.”, “legal_basis”: “Administrative Order”, “topic_tags”: [ “reimbursement”, “fees”, “penalties” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA be fined for these violations?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, a civil penalty may be levied, though it may be a nominal amount compared to the filing fees.”, “detailed_answer”: “The ALJ has the authority to levy civil penalties for violations of statutes or community documents. In this specific case, a penalty of $150.00 was deemed appropriate.”, “alj_quote”: “A Civil Penalty of $150.00 is found to be appropriate in this matter.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 32-2199.02”, “topic_tags”: [ “fines”, “civil penalty”, “enforcement” ] } ] }






Blog Post – 25F-H025-REL


{ “case”: { “docket_no”: “25F-H025-REL”, “case_title”: “George Wolchko v. Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association”, “decision_date”: “2025-05-05”, “alj_name”: “Samuel Fox”, “tribunal”: “OAH”, “agency”: “ADRE” }, “questions”: [ { “question”: “How long does the HOA have to provide records after I request them?”, “short_answer”: “The HOA has ten business days to fulfill a request to examine or provide copies of records.”, “detailed_answer”: “Under A.R.S. § 33-1805, an association must strictly adhere to a ten-business-day timeframe. In this case, providing access nearly a month after the initial request was found to be a violation of state law.”, “alj_quote”: “A.R.S. § 33-1805 provides an association ‘ten business days to fulfill a request for examination’ or ‘to provide copies of the requested records.’ … More than ten business days passed between May 6, 2024, and June 3, 2024. Petitioner demonstrated by a preponderance of the evidence that Respondent, through Kachina, failed to comply with A.R.S. § 33-1805.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 33-1805”, “topic_tags”: [ “records request”, “deadlines”, “HOA obligations” ] }, { “question”: “Can homeowners call an ’emergency meeting’ regarding repairs?”, “short_answer”: “Generally, no. Homeowners should request a ‘special meeting’ instead, as ’emergency meetings’ are typically reserved for the Board.”, “detailed_answer”: “While homeowners may petition for a meeting, using the correct terminology is critical. In this case, a petition for an ’emergency meeting’ was deemed ineffective because that specific type of meeting is a Board function, whereas homeowners are authorized to request ‘special meetings’.”, “alj_quote”: “In the context of the communications about this meeting, it is clear that Petitioner was requesting a ‘special meeting’ not an ’emergency meeting,’ which can only be called by the Board.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws”, “topic_tags”: [ “meetings”, “procedure”, “homeowner rights” ] }, { “question”: “What specific details must be included in a petition for a special meeting?”, “short_answer”: “The petition must usually include the date, hour, place of the meeting, and the specific purpose or topic.”, “detailed_answer”: “Failure to include all technical details required by the Bylaws—such as the specific place of the meeting or the correct label (‘special meeting’)—can render a petition invalid, even if it has the required number of signatures.”, “alj_quote”: “The petition did not include a place for the meeting, the topic to be discussed, or the phrase ‘special meeting.’ … Petitioner’s special meeting request did not fully comply with the requirements of the Bylaws. Although it is a mere technicality, it is sufficient to deem the petition for a special meeting ineffective.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws Article III, Section 4”, “topic_tags”: [ “meetings”, “petitions”, “technicalities” ] }, { “question”: “Is the HOA responsible if a contractor they hired does poor work on a common element?”, “short_answer”: “Yes. The HOA has a duty to maintain common elements and correct problems caused by their contractors.”, “detailed_answer”: “If an HOA-hired contractor installs incorrect equipment or leaves a common element exposed to damage (like weather), the Board cannot decline to fix it. They retain the obligation to maintain the area in good repair.”, “alj_quote”: “The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board-hired electrician installed the wrong kind of box and left a section of the wall exposed without proper weather proofing… The Board declined to correct the problem its contractor caused… The preponderance of the evidence supports that the Board failed to maintain this area in good repair in violation of the Bylaws and CC&R.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws Article IV, Section 3; CC&R Section 4.05(2)”, “topic_tags”: [ “maintenance”, “common elements”, “contractors” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA Board operate with fewer members than the Bylaws require?”, “short_answer”: “No. If the Bylaws state a minimum number of directors, the Board must maintain that number.”, “detailed_answer”: “The Board cannot choose to operate with fewer directors than mandated. In this case, operating with two directors when the Bylaws required a minimum of three was a violation.”, “alj_quote”: “Article IV, section 1 of the Bylaws require a Board of no fewer than three people. The preponderance of the evidence established that the Board has consisted of two people for some time… The preponderance of the evidence supports that Respondent violated the Bylaws by not having enough Board members.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws Article IV, Section 1”, “topic_tags”: [ “board composition”, “bylaws”, “vacancies” ] }, { “question”: “Does a Bylaw saying a vacancy ‘may be filled’ mean the Board can choose to leave a seat empty?”, “short_answer”: “No. That language typically describes the method of filling the seat (appointment) rather than permission to leave it vacant below the required minimum.”, “detailed_answer”: “HOAs cannot use the word ‘may’ in vacancy provisions to justify ignoring minimum board size requirements. The provision allows for appointment rather than election to fill the spot, but does not absolve the Board of the duty to have the required number of members.”, “alj_quote”: “Respondent argued that Section 5, Vacancies does not require the Board to fill a vacant position… This argument was not persuasive. This provision allows for the appointment, rather than the election, of a Director to a vacant seat. It does not absolve the Board from having the minimum number of Directors.”, “legal_basis”: “Bylaws”, “topic_tags”: [ “legal interpretation”, “board vacancies”, “bylaws” ] }, { “question”: “If I win my hearing against the HOA, can I get my filing fee back?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, the Administrative Law Judge can order the HOA to reimburse the petitioner for the filing fee.”, “detailed_answer”: “In this decision, the HOA was ordered to pay the $1,500.00 filing fee directly to the homeowners within 30 days because the homeowners prevailed on the majority of their issues.”, “alj_quote”: “IT IS ORDERED that Respondent pay Petitioners the filing fee of $1,500.00, to be paid directly to Petitioners within thirty (30) days of this Order.”, “legal_basis”: “Administrative Order”, “topic_tags”: [ “reimbursement”, “fees”, “penalties” ] }, { “question”: “Can the HOA be fined for these violations?”, “short_answer”: “Yes, a civil penalty may be levied, though it may be a nominal amount compared to the filing fees.”, “detailed_answer”: “The ALJ has the authority to levy civil penalties for violations of statutes or community documents. In this specific case, a penalty of $150.00 was deemed appropriate.”, “alj_quote”: “A Civil Penalty of $150.00 is found to be appropriate in this matter.”, “legal_basis”: “A.R.S. § 32-2199.02”, “topic_tags”: [ “fines”, “civil penalty”, “enforcement” ] } ] }


Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • George Wolchko (petitioner)
  • Terrance Greer (owner/petitioner supporter)
    Signed special meeting petition

Respondent Side

  • Christopher Duren (HOA attorney)
    GOTTLIEB LAW, PLC
    Appeared as counsel for Respondent; referenced as Mr. Duran/Durham
  • Joseph Kidd (board member/witness)
    Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association
  • Michael Mott (board member)
    Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association
  • Benjamin L. Gottlieb (HOA attorney)
    GOTTLIEB LAW, PLC
  • Mark Rounsaville (HOA representative)
    Kachina Management
    Also referred to as R. Mark Rounsaville; filed written answer for Respondent
  • Chris Jones (former board member)
    Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association
    Elected September 2024, resigned shortly thereafter
  • Ashley Love (property manager)
    Tri City Property Management
  • Deja Rabone (property manager)
    Tri City Property Management
  • Amy (law firm staff)
    GOTTLIEB LAW, PLC
  • Joshua (law firm staff)
    GOTTLIEB LAW, PLC
  • Chris (law firm staff)
    GOTTLIEB LAW, PLC
    Distinct from Christopher Duren
  • Karen F. (law firm staff)
    GOTTLIEB LAW, PLC

Neutral Parties

  • Samuel Fox (ALJ)
    OAH
  • Susan Nicolson (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Alexis Madrid (ALJ)
    OAH

Other Participants

  • Ron Owen (former board member)
    Victoria Manor Management & Property Owners Association
  • V. Nunez (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • D. Jones (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • L. Abril (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • M. Neat (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • L. Recchia (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • G. Osborn (ADRE staff)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate

Thomas W Sweeney v. Warner Ranch Landing Association

Case Summary

Case ID 21F-H2120027-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2021-02-04
Administrative Law Judge Sondra J. Vanella
Outcome no
Filing Fees Refunded $500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Thomas W. Sweeney Counsel
Respondent Warner Ranch Landing Association Counsel Austin Baillio

Alleged Violations

Article 8, Section 8.1.5

Outcome Summary

The ALJ dismissed the petition, finding that the HOA did not violate the CC&Rs. The CC&Rs allowed the Association to increase the annual assessment by either the CPI or 5%, and the disputed 10% increase was below the maximum allowable assessment calculated over the years.

Why this result: Petitioner failed to meet the burden of proof due to an incorrect interpretation of the CC&Rs regarding maximum annual assessment calculations.

Key Issues & Findings

Improper Assessment Increase

Petitioner alleged the Association increased annual assessments in violation of Article VIII Section 8.1.5 of the CC&Rs.

Orders: IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner Thomas W. Sweeney's Petition be dismissed.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: petitioner_loss

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199
  • A.R.S. § 41-1092.07(G)(2)
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119(A)
  • A.A.C. R2-19-119(B)(1)

Decision Documents

21F-H2120027-REL Decision – 852845.pdf

Uploaded 2026-02-28T18:23:29 (102.5 KB)

**Case Title:** No. 21F-H2120027-REL
**Parties:** Thomas W. Sweeney (Petitioner) v. Warner Ranch Landing Association (Respondent)
**Forum:** Arizona Office of Administrative Hearings

**Main Issue**
The central issue in this hearing was whether the Respondent homeowners association (HOA) increased its 2021 annual assessments in violation of Article VIII, Section 8.1.5 of the community's Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs).

**Key Facts and Arguments**
* **Petitioner’s Argument:** The Petitioner contested a 10% increase in the 2021 annual assessments, arguing that it violated Section 8.1.5 of the CC&Rs. He interpreted the governing documents to mean that a 5% maximum allowable annual increase applies only if the Consumer Price Index (CPI) no longer exists. The Petitioner did not submit supplementary evidence to support his claim, relying solely on his personal interpretation of the CC&Rs.
* **Respondent’s Argument:** Representatives for the HOA testified that Section 8.1.5 allows the maximum annual assessment to increase automatically each year by the *greater* of the CPI or 5%. Because the board elected not to raise dues to the absolute maximum in prior years, the cumulative permitted maximum assessment for 2021 would theoretically be over $4,200. Therefore, the 2021 assessment, even with the 10% year-over-year increase, remained more than $2,300 below the maximum amount allowed under the CC&Rs. Additionally, the Respondent noted that Arizona statute (A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)) permits an HOA to increase regular assessments up to 20% over the preceding year without a member vote.

**Legal Analysis**
The Administrative Law Judge evaluated the case based on the plain language of Section 8.1.5 of the CC&Rs. The judge found that the CC&Rs explicitly permit the HOA to increase the maximum annual assessment by the greater of the CPI percentage increase *or* 5%, directly contradicting the Petitioner's interpretation. By law, the Petitioner bore the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence that the HOA violated the community documents.

**Final Decision and Outcome**
The Administrative Law Judge concluded that the Petitioner failed to establish that the Respondent violated the CC&Rs. As a result, the Petition was officially dismissed.

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Thomas W. Sweeney (petitioner)
    Appeared on his own behalf

Respondent Side

  • Austin Baillio (HOA attorney)
    Warner Ranch Landing Association
    Also listed as B. Austin Bailio in mailing section
  • Christopher Reynolds (property manager)
    Warner Ranch Landing Association
    Community Manager for Respondent; provided testimony
  • Michael Goldberg (board member)
    Warner Ranch Landing Association
    Vice-president of the Board; provided testimony

Neutral Parties

  • Sondra J. Vanella (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Judy Lowe (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate

Jean Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association

Case Summary

Case ID 20F-H2020054-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2020-07-30
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome loss
Filing Fees Refunded $0.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Jean Williams Counsel
Respondent Surprise Farms II Community Association Counsel Nick Nogami

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1803; CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.2 and 7.4(a)-(c)

Outcome Summary

Petitioner failed to prove the HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1803(A) or the CC&Rs by increasing the Annual Assessment by 20% without a vote, as the increase remained below the Maximum Annual Assessment and complied with the statutory 20% cap.

Why this result: Petitioner’s assertion was based on an erroneous reading of the CC&Rs, confusing the maximum automatic increase of the Maximum Annual Assessment (10%) with the limit on the actual Annual Assessment increase.

Key Issues & Findings

Whether the 20% increase in the Annual Assessment effective April 2020 violated statutory limits or CC&R requirements for member approval.

Petitioner alleged the Respondent HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1803 and the CC&Rs by increasing the Annual Assessment by 20% (from $720 to $864) effective April 2020 without obtaining a 2/3 majority vote of the members.

Orders: Petitioner’s petition is dismissed.

Filing fee: $0.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.2
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.4

Analytics Highlights

Topics: assessment increase, HOA assessments, statutory compliance, CC&R interpretation
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.2
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.4

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

20F-H2020054-REL Decision – 810957.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-23T17:32:37 (103.0 KB)





Briefing Doc – 20F-H2020054-REL


Briefing on Administrative Law Judge Decision: Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association

Executive Summary

This briefing analyzes the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) decision in case number 20F-H2020054-REL, where petitioner Jean Williams alleged that the Surprise Farms II Community Association improperly increased annual homeowner assessments. The ALJ dismissed the petition, concluding that the Association acted within its authority as defined by both its Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and Arizona state law.

The central finding of the case is that the petitioner erroneously interpreted the CC&Rs by confusing the “Annual Assessment” (the actual amount charged to homeowners) with the “Maximum Annual Assessment” (a calculated upper limit). The ALJ determined that the Association’s 20% increase in the Annual Assessment for 2020 was permissible because:

1. It did not exceed the 20% year-over-year cap allowed by Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 33-1803(A) without a member vote.

2. The resulting assessment of $864 was significantly below the $2,426 Maximum Annual Assessment permitted for 2020 under the community’s own CC&Rs.

Ultimately, the decision affirms the Board’s discretion to set the Annual Assessment, provided it stays within the dual constraints of the state’s percentage increase limit and the community’s own calculated maximum charge.

Case Overview

Case Number: 20F-H2020054-REL

Parties:

Petitioner: Jean Williams

Respondent: Surprise Farms II Community Association

Administrative Law Judge: Tammy L. Eigenheer

Hearing Date: July 10, 2020

Decision Date: July 30, 2020

Nature of Dispute: The petitioner contested the validity of a 20% increase in the annual homeowners association assessment implemented in April 2020, arguing it required a member vote.

Petitioner’s Allegations

Jean Williams filed a petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate on March 31, 2020, alleging that the Surprise Farms II Community Association violated its governing documents and state law.

Core Allegation: The Association illegally increased the “Maximum Monthly Assessment” by 20% without the approval of a two-thirds majority of association members.

Cited Violations:

A.R.S. § 33-1803: The statute governing assessment increases.

CC&Rs Article VII, Sections 7.2 and 7.4(a)-(c): The sections of the community’s governing documents that outline assessment rules.

Petitioner’s Argument: Williams contended that the Association’s CC&Rs limited any annual assessment increase to 10% unless a vote was held. She argued that the Association’s justification for the 20% increase, which cited A.R.S. § 33-1803, was a direct violation of the community’s covenants.

Respondent’s Position and Stipulated Facts

The Surprise Farms II Community Association denied all of the petitioner’s complaints. At the hearing, the Association did not present witnesses and relied on its legal argument. The respondent stipulated to the key facts regarding the assessment increases:

April 2019 Increase: The Annual Assessment increased from $660.00 to $720.00 per year, a 9% increase, without a vote of the members.

April 2020 Increase: The Annual Assessment increased from $720.00 to $864.00 per year, a 20% increase, without a vote of the members.

Governing Rules and Document Analysis

The ALJ’s decision rested on a detailed interpretation of state law and two distinct concepts within the Association’s CC&Rs: the “Annual Assessment” and the “Maximum Annual Assessment.”

Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 33-1803(A)

This state law establishes a default cap on assessment increases. It states that an association “shall not impose a regular assessment that is more than twenty percent greater than the immediately preceding fiscal year’s assessment without the approval of the majority of the members,” unless the community’s own documents impose an even lower limit.

CC&Rs Article VII: Key Definitions

The case hinged on the distinction between two terms defined in the CC&Rs:

1. Maximum Annual Assessment (Section 7.4): This section defines a ceiling for how much the Board could charge.

◦ It began at $480 in the first year.

◦ Crucially, this maximum automatically increases by up to 10% each year without a member vote.

◦ To raise the Maximum Annual Assessment above this automatic 10% annual increase, a two-thirds vote of members is required.

2. Annual Assessment (Section 7.2): This section defines the actual charge levied against each property.

◦ The Board has “sole discretion” to set this amount each year.

◦ The only limitation is that the Annual Assessment must be less than or equal to the “Maximum Annual Assessment” calculated under Section 7.4.

Administrative Law Judge’s Findings and Conclusion

The ALJ concluded that the petitioner failed to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the Association violated the CC&Rs or state law. The decision was based on the following key points of analysis:

Erroneous Reading of the CC&Rs

The ALJ found the petitioner’s entire argument was “predicated on her erroneous reading of Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs.” The petitioner incorrectly believed the 10% automatic increase to the Maximum Annual Assessment was a cap on the Annual Assessment itself.

The decision explicitly clarifies this distinction:

“Petitioner repeatedly asserted that an increase in the Annual Assessment was limited to ten percent in any given year unless approved by a vote of the members even though Article VII, Section 7.4 was entitled Maximum Annual Assessment and consistently referenced the same. By definition, the existence of a Maximum Annual Assessment necessitates an Annual Assessment that may be less than the maximum.”

Calculation of the Maximum Annual Assessment

The ALJ used the CC&Rs’ formula (a 10% cumulative increase per year since 2003) to calculate the authorized Maximum Annual Assessment for each year. This demonstrated the significant gap between what the Association could charge and what it actually charged.

Maximum Annual Assessment

$480.00

$528.00

$580.80

$638.88

$702.76

$773.03

$850.33

$935.36

$1,028.89

$1,131.77

$1,244.94

$1,369.43

$1,369.43

$1,657.00

$1,822.70

$2,004.97

$2,205.46

$2,426.00

Legality of the 2020 Assessment Increase

The ALJ determined the Association’s 2020 increase was compliant with all rules for two reasons:

1. Compliance with State Law: The increase from $720 to $864 was exactly 20%, which is the maximum allowed under A.R.S. § 33-1803(A) without a member vote.

2. Compliance with CC&Rs: The new Annual Assessment of $864 was substantially lower than the calculated Maximum Annual Assessment of $2,426 allowed for 2020.

The Board therefore acted within its “sole discretion” as granted by Section 7.2 of the CC&Rs.

Final Order

Based on the finding that the Association acted properly, IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner’s petition is dismissed. The decision is binding unless a rehearing is requested within 30 days of the order.






Study Guide – 20F-H2020054-REL


Study Guide: Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association

This study guide provides a review of the Administrative Law Judge Decision in case number 20F-H2020054-REL, Jean Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association. It includes a short-answer quiz, an answer key, suggested essay questions, and a glossary of key terms to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the case.

Short-Answer Quiz

Answer the following questions in 2-3 complete sentences, based on the provided legal decision.

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

2. What was the central allegation Jean Williams made against the Surprise Farms II Community Association in her petition?

3. What was the specific percentage and dollar amount of the Annual Assessment increase that took effect in April 2020, and was it approved by a vote of the members?

4. According to the decision, which two governing documents did the Petitioner allege the Respondent had violated?

5. What limitation does Arizona Revised Statute (A.R.S.) § 33-1803(A) place on an association’s ability to raise regular assessments?

6. How did the community’s CC&Rs define the relationship between the “Annual Assessment” set by the Board and the “Maximum Annual Assessment”?

7. What was the calculated “Maximum Annual Assessment” for the year 2020, according to the automatic increase formula in the CC&Rs?

8. According to the Administrative Law Judge, what was the petitioner’s fundamental misunderstanding of Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs?

9. Who bore the “burden of proof” in this case, and what legal standard was required to meet it?

10. What was the final order issued by the Administrative Law Judge, and on what date was the decision made?

——————————————————————————–

Quiz Answer Key

1. The primary parties were Jean Williams, who was the Petitioner appearing on her own behalf, and the Surprise Farms II Community Association, which was the Respondent represented by Nick Nogami. The case was adjudicated by Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer.

2. The petitioner alleged that the association improperly increased the Maximum Monthly Assessment by 20% without the required approval from a two-thirds majority of the association members. She claimed this action violated the community’s CC&Rs and that the association incorrectly used A.R.S. § 33-1803 to justify the increase.

3. Effective April 2020, the Annual Assessment increased by twenty percent, from $720.00 per year to $864.00 per year. The respondent stipulated that this increase occurred without any vote of the members.

4. The Petitioner alleged that the Respondent had violated the provisions of A.R.S. § 33-1803 and specific sections of the association’s governing documents: Article VII, Section 7.2 and 7.4(a)-(c) of the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs).

5. A.R.S. § 33-1803(A) states that an association cannot impose a regular assessment that is more than twenty percent greater than the previous fiscal year’s assessment without the approval of a majority of the members. This limit applies unless the community’s own documents impose an even lower limit.

6. Article VII, Section 7.2 of the CC&Rs granted the Board sole discretion to set the Annual Assessment. This discretion was limited by the provision that the amount must be subject to, and therefore less than or equal to, the “Maximum Annual Assessment” as calculated under Section 7.4.

7. Using the annual ten percent increase formula set forth in Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs, the calculated Maximum Annual Assessment for the year 2020 was $2,426.00.

8. The judge concluded that the petitioner’s case was predicated on her erroneous reading of the CC&Rs. She incorrectly believed the 10% figure in Section 7.4 applied to the Annual Assessment itself, when in fact it was the automatic escalator for the Maximum Annual Assessment, which served as a ceiling for the board’s discretion.

9. The Petitioner, Jean Williams, bore the burden of proof in this proceeding. She was required to prove her allegations by a “preponderance of the evidence,” which is defined as evidence with the most convincing force.

10. The final order, issued on July 30, 2020, was that the Petitioner’s petition be dismissed. The Judge concluded that the Respondent did not violate the referenced provisions of the CC&Rs or A.R.S. § 33-1803(A).

——————————————————————————–

Essay Questions

The following questions are designed for longer-form, analytical responses. No answers are provided.

1. Analyze the distinction between “Annual Assessment” and “Maximum Annual Assessment” as defined in the Surprise Farms II CC&Rs. Explain how the petitioner’s failure to differentiate between these two terms was central to the case’s outcome.

2. Explain the interplay between the community’s CC&Rs (specifically Article VII, Sections 7.2 and 7.4) and the state law (A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)). How did the judge determine that the HOA’s actions complied with both governing authorities?

3. Describe the burden of proof in this case. Who held the burden, what was the standard required, and did they successfully meet it? Use specific details from the “CONCLUSIONS OF LAW” section to support your answer.

4. Trace the history of the assessment increases from April 2019 to April 2020. Detail the specific monetary and percentage increases for both years and explain why the 20% increase in 2020 was deemed legally permissible without a member vote, while an increase over 20% would not have been.

5. Discuss the legal reasoning behind the Administrative Law Judge’s decision to dismiss the petition. What specific conclusions of law and interpretations of the CC&Rs led directly to the ruling that the respondent did not improperly increase the annual assessment?

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Glossary of Key Terms

Definition

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

The official, in this case Tammy L. Eigenheer, who presides over administrative hearings and makes legal decisions and rulings.

Annual Assessment

As defined in the CC&Rs, “the charge levied and assessed each year against each Lot and Parcel pursuant to Article VII, Section 7.2 hereof.” The Board has sole discretion to set this amount, as long as it does not exceed the Maximum Annual Assessment.

A.R.S. (Arizona Revised Statutes)

The codified laws of the state of Arizona. The specific statute relevant to this case is A.R.S. § 33-1803(A), which governs HOA assessment increases.

Burden of Proof

The obligation on a party in a legal proceeding to prove their allegations. In this case, the Petitioner bore the burden of proving the Respondent violated the law and CC&Rs.

CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions)

The governing legal documents that set forth the rules for a planned community or homeowners association. In this case, the CC&Rs for Surprise Farms II were recorded in 2003.

HOA (Homeowners Association)

An organization in a subdivision, planned community, or condominium that makes and enforces rules for the properties and its residents. The Surprise Farms II Community Association is the HOA in this case.

Maximum Annual Assessment

A ceiling on the Annual Assessment, established by the CC&Rs. This amount was set at $480 initially and designed to increase automatically by ten percent each year without a member vote, serving as the upper limit for the Board’s assessment-setting discretion.

Petitioner

The party who files a petition initiating a legal case. In this matter, Jean Williams was the Petitioner.

Preponderance of the Evidence

The legal standard of proof required in this proceeding. It is met when the evidence presented has the “most convincing force” and shows that a fact is more likely to be true than not true.

Respondent

The party against whom a petition is filed. In this matter, the Surprise Farms II Community Association was the Respondent.






Blog Post – 20F-H2020054-REL


Why This Homeowner Lost Her Lawsuit Against the HOA (And What You Can Learn From It)

1.0 Introduction: The Dreaded HOA Letter

It’s a scenario many homeowners fear: a letter from the Homeowners Association (HOA) announcing a significant and unexpected fee increase. The feeling of frustration and powerlessness can be overwhelming. When Jean Williams received notice that her HOA was raising her annual assessment by a full 20%, she believed the board had overstepped its authority. The increase seemed to be a clear violation of the community’s governing documents, so she decided to fight back and took her HOA to court. The outcome, however, was not what she—or many other homeowners—would have expected.

2.0 The Core Misunderstanding: “Maximum” Dues vs. “Actual” Dues

The foundation of Jean Williams’s case was her belief that the community’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) limited any annual fee increase to 10% without a vote from the members. This is where the critical misunderstanding occurred.

The judge in the case identified a crucial distinction in the legal language. The 10% limit mentioned in the CC&Rs did not apply to the Annual Assessment—the actual dollar amount billed to homeowners each year. Instead, it applied to the Maximum Annual Assessment, a theoretical ceiling on how high the fees could potentially go.

But why was this ceiling so high? The CC&Rs were designed so that this Maximum Annual Assessment would increase automatically by 10% every single year since its inception in 2003. This cumulative growth operated silently in the background for over a decade, creating a vast difference between the two figures. For the year 2020, the actual assessment billed to homeowners was $864. However, due to years of automatic increases, the allowable Maximum Annual Assessment had ballooned to $2,426. The board was operating with far more financial latitude than the petitioner realized.

3.0 How State Law Set the Real Limit at 20%

The next layer of this case involves the interplay between the HOA’s documents and state law. An Arizona state law, A.R.S. § 33-1803(A), dictates that an HOA cannot raise regular assessments by more than 20% in a single year without a vote from the majority of members, unless the community’s own documents set a lower limit.

This is the key legal point. Williams believed her community documents did set a lower limit of 10%. Critically, however, that 10% limit applied only to the wrong variable—the theoretical Maximum Annual Assessment ceiling, not the Annual Assessment actually paid. The CC&Rs’ failure to place a specific annual cap on the actual assessment created a legal vacuum. This vacuum was automatically filled by the Arizona state statute, making its 20% cap the only legally binding limit.

The HOA’s increase from $720 to $864 was exactly 20%. This placed their action right at the maximum threshold allowed by state law without requiring a member vote, making it legally permissible.

4.0 The Fine Print: The Power of “Sole Discretion”

The HOA board’s authority was further solidified by specific language embedded in its governing documents. Article VII, Section 7.2 of the CC&Rs explicitly granted the board “sole discretion” to determine the amount of the Annual Assessment.

The true power of this clause was unlocked by its connection to the two types of assessments. The board’s “sole discretion” was the legal tool that allowed them to set the Annual Assessment at any level they chose, provided it did not exceed the automatically growing Maximum Annual Assessment ceiling. With a ceiling of $2,426 and a previous fee of only $720, the board was legally empowered to enact the 20% increase without consulting homeowners.

5.0 The Judge’s Final Word: A Cautionary Tale

Ultimately, the judge concluded that the homeowner’s entire case was built on a misreading of the governing documents. The judge’s decision offers a clear and potent lesson for all homeowners, emphasizing that the precise wording of these legal documents is everything.

In the final decision, the judge wrote:

Petitioner’s assertion that Respondent could not increase the Annual Assessment by twenty percent was predicated on her erroneous reading of Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs. … By definition, the existence of a Maximum Annual Assessment necessitates an Annual Assessment that may be less than the maximum.

The judge’s reasoning is precise: creating a “maximum” assessment in a legal document inherently implies the existence of a separate “actual” assessment that can be lower. Williams’s case collapsed because she treated these two distinct legal concepts as one and the same.

6.0 Conclusion: Are You Sure You Know What Your Documents Say?

The case of Jean Williams serves as a powerful reminder of how interlocking legal mechanics can produce unexpected outcomes. The board’s power was not derived from a single rule, but from the synthesis of three distinct elements: a high Maximum Assessment ceiling created by a silent, cumulative growth clause; the board’s “sole discretion” to set actual fees anywhere underneath that ceiling; and the state law’s 20% backstop that became the only relevant limit in the absence of a specific cap in the CC&Rs.

This case proves that the devil is truly in the details. It begs a critical question for every homeowner living in a planned community: When was the last time you read your community’s CC&Rs?


Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Jean Williams (petitioner)
    Appeared and testified on her own behalf

Respondent Side

  • Nick Nogami (HOA attorney)
    Surprise Farms II Community Association

Neutral Parties

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

Jean Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association

Case Summary

Case ID 20F-H2020054-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2020-07-30
Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer
Outcome loss
Filing Fees Refunded $0.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Jean Williams Counsel
Respondent Surprise Farms II Community Association Counsel Nick Nogami

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1803; CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.2 and 7.4(a)-(c)

Outcome Summary

Petitioner failed to prove the HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1803(A) or the CC&Rs by increasing the Annual Assessment by 20% without a vote, as the increase remained below the Maximum Annual Assessment and complied with the statutory 20% cap.

Why this result: Petitioner’s assertion was based on an erroneous reading of the CC&Rs, confusing the maximum automatic increase of the Maximum Annual Assessment (10%) with the limit on the actual Annual Assessment increase.

Key Issues & Findings

Whether the 20% increase in the Annual Assessment effective April 2020 violated statutory limits or CC&R requirements for member approval.

Petitioner alleged the Respondent HOA violated A.R.S. § 33-1803 and the CC&Rs by increasing the Annual Assessment by 20% (from $720 to $864) effective April 2020 without obtaining a 2/3 majority vote of the members.

Orders: Petitioner’s petition is dismissed.

Filing fee: $0.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.2
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.4

Analytics Highlights

Topics: assessment increase, HOA assessments, statutory compliance, CC&R interpretation
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.2
  • CC&Rs Article VII, Section 7.4

Video Overview

Audio Overview

Decision Documents

20F-H2020054-REL Decision – 810957.pdf

Uploaded 2025-10-09T03:35:14 (103.0 KB)





Briefing Doc – 20F-H2020054-REL


Briefing on Administrative Law Judge Decision: Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association

Executive Summary

This briefing analyzes the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) decision in case number 20F-H2020054-REL, where petitioner Jean Williams alleged that the Surprise Farms II Community Association improperly increased annual homeowner assessments. The ALJ dismissed the petition, concluding that the Association acted within its authority as defined by both its Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and Arizona state law.

The central finding of the case is that the petitioner erroneously interpreted the CC&Rs by confusing the “Annual Assessment” (the actual amount charged to homeowners) with the “Maximum Annual Assessment” (a calculated upper limit). The ALJ determined that the Association’s 20% increase in the Annual Assessment for 2020 was permissible because:

1. It did not exceed the 20% year-over-year cap allowed by Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 33-1803(A) without a member vote.

2. The resulting assessment of $864 was significantly below the $2,426 Maximum Annual Assessment permitted for 2020 under the community’s own CC&Rs.

Ultimately, the decision affirms the Board’s discretion to set the Annual Assessment, provided it stays within the dual constraints of the state’s percentage increase limit and the community’s own calculated maximum charge.

Case Overview

Case Number: 20F-H2020054-REL

Parties:

Petitioner: Jean Williams

Respondent: Surprise Farms II Community Association

Administrative Law Judge: Tammy L. Eigenheer

Hearing Date: July 10, 2020

Decision Date: July 30, 2020

Nature of Dispute: The petitioner contested the validity of a 20% increase in the annual homeowners association assessment implemented in April 2020, arguing it required a member vote.

Petitioner’s Allegations

Jean Williams filed a petition with the Arizona Department of Real Estate on March 31, 2020, alleging that the Surprise Farms II Community Association violated its governing documents and state law.

Core Allegation: The Association illegally increased the “Maximum Monthly Assessment” by 20% without the approval of a two-thirds majority of association members.

Cited Violations:

A.R.S. § 33-1803: The statute governing assessment increases.

CC&Rs Article VII, Sections 7.2 and 7.4(a)-(c): The sections of the community’s governing documents that outline assessment rules.

Petitioner’s Argument: Williams contended that the Association’s CC&Rs limited any annual assessment increase to 10% unless a vote was held. She argued that the Association’s justification for the 20% increase, which cited A.R.S. § 33-1803, was a direct violation of the community’s covenants.

Respondent’s Position and Stipulated Facts

The Surprise Farms II Community Association denied all of the petitioner’s complaints. At the hearing, the Association did not present witnesses and relied on its legal argument. The respondent stipulated to the key facts regarding the assessment increases:

April 2019 Increase: The Annual Assessment increased from $660.00 to $720.00 per year, a 9% increase, without a vote of the members.

April 2020 Increase: The Annual Assessment increased from $720.00 to $864.00 per year, a 20% increase, without a vote of the members.

Governing Rules and Document Analysis

The ALJ’s decision rested on a detailed interpretation of state law and two distinct concepts within the Association’s CC&Rs: the “Annual Assessment” and the “Maximum Annual Assessment.”

Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 33-1803(A)

This state law establishes a default cap on assessment increases. It states that an association “shall not impose a regular assessment that is more than twenty percent greater than the immediately preceding fiscal year’s assessment without the approval of the majority of the members,” unless the community’s own documents impose an even lower limit.

CC&Rs Article VII: Key Definitions

The case hinged on the distinction between two terms defined in the CC&Rs:

1. Maximum Annual Assessment (Section 7.4): This section defines a ceiling for how much the Board could charge.

◦ It began at $480 in the first year.

◦ Crucially, this maximum automatically increases by up to 10% each year without a member vote.

◦ To raise the Maximum Annual Assessment above this automatic 10% annual increase, a two-thirds vote of members is required.

2. Annual Assessment (Section 7.2): This section defines the actual charge levied against each property.

◦ The Board has “sole discretion” to set this amount each year.

◦ The only limitation is that the Annual Assessment must be less than or equal to the “Maximum Annual Assessment” calculated under Section 7.4.

Administrative Law Judge’s Findings and Conclusion

The ALJ concluded that the petitioner failed to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the Association violated the CC&Rs or state law. The decision was based on the following key points of analysis:

Erroneous Reading of the CC&Rs

The ALJ found the petitioner’s entire argument was “predicated on her erroneous reading of Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs.” The petitioner incorrectly believed the 10% automatic increase to the Maximum Annual Assessment was a cap on the Annual Assessment itself.

The decision explicitly clarifies this distinction:

“Petitioner repeatedly asserted that an increase in the Annual Assessment was limited to ten percent in any given year unless approved by a vote of the members even though Article VII, Section 7.4 was entitled Maximum Annual Assessment and consistently referenced the same. By definition, the existence of a Maximum Annual Assessment necessitates an Annual Assessment that may be less than the maximum.”

Calculation of the Maximum Annual Assessment

The ALJ used the CC&Rs’ formula (a 10% cumulative increase per year since 2003) to calculate the authorized Maximum Annual Assessment for each year. This demonstrated the significant gap between what the Association could charge and what it actually charged.

Maximum Annual Assessment

$480.00

$528.00

$580.80

$638.88

$702.76

$773.03

$850.33

$935.36

$1,028.89

$1,131.77

$1,244.94

$1,369.43

$1,369.43

$1,657.00

$1,822.70

$2,004.97

$2,205.46

$2,426.00

Legality of the 2020 Assessment Increase

The ALJ determined the Association’s 2020 increase was compliant with all rules for two reasons:

1. Compliance with State Law: The increase from $720 to $864 was exactly 20%, which is the maximum allowed under A.R.S. § 33-1803(A) without a member vote.

2. Compliance with CC&Rs: The new Annual Assessment of $864 was substantially lower than the calculated Maximum Annual Assessment of $2,426 allowed for 2020.

The Board therefore acted within its “sole discretion” as granted by Section 7.2 of the CC&Rs.

Final Order

Based on the finding that the Association acted properly, IT IS ORDERED that Petitioner’s petition is dismissed. The decision is binding unless a rehearing is requested within 30 days of the order.






Study Guide – 20F-H2020054-REL


Study Guide: Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association

This study guide provides a review of the Administrative Law Judge Decision in case number 20F-H2020054-REL, Jean Williams v. Surprise Farms II Community Association. It includes a short-answer quiz, an answer key, suggested essay questions, and a glossary of key terms to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the case.

Short-Answer Quiz

Answer the following questions in 2-3 complete sentences, based on the provided legal decision.

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

2. What was the central allegation Jean Williams made against the Surprise Farms II Community Association in her petition?

3. What was the specific percentage and dollar amount of the Annual Assessment increase that took effect in April 2020, and was it approved by a vote of the members?

4. According to the decision, which two governing documents did the Petitioner allege the Respondent had violated?

5. What limitation does Arizona Revised Statute (A.R.S.) § 33-1803(A) place on an association’s ability to raise regular assessments?

6. How did the community’s CC&Rs define the relationship between the “Annual Assessment” set by the Board and the “Maximum Annual Assessment”?

7. What was the calculated “Maximum Annual Assessment” for the year 2020, according to the automatic increase formula in the CC&Rs?

8. According to the Administrative Law Judge, what was the petitioner’s fundamental misunderstanding of Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs?

9. Who bore the “burden of proof” in this case, and what legal standard was required to meet it?

10. What was the final order issued by the Administrative Law Judge, and on what date was the decision made?

——————————————————————————–

Quiz Answer Key

1. The primary parties were Jean Williams, who was the Petitioner appearing on her own behalf, and the Surprise Farms II Community Association, which was the Respondent represented by Nick Nogami. The case was adjudicated by Administrative Law Judge Tammy L. Eigenheer.

2. The petitioner alleged that the association improperly increased the Maximum Monthly Assessment by 20% without the required approval from a two-thirds majority of the association members. She claimed this action violated the community’s CC&Rs and that the association incorrectly used A.R.S. § 33-1803 to justify the increase.

3. Effective April 2020, the Annual Assessment increased by twenty percent, from $720.00 per year to $864.00 per year. The respondent stipulated that this increase occurred without any vote of the members.

4. The Petitioner alleged that the Respondent had violated the provisions of A.R.S. § 33-1803 and specific sections of the association’s governing documents: Article VII, Section 7.2 and 7.4(a)-(c) of the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs).

5. A.R.S. § 33-1803(A) states that an association cannot impose a regular assessment that is more than twenty percent greater than the previous fiscal year’s assessment without the approval of a majority of the members. This limit applies unless the community’s own documents impose an even lower limit.

6. Article VII, Section 7.2 of the CC&Rs granted the Board sole discretion to set the Annual Assessment. This discretion was limited by the provision that the amount must be subject to, and therefore less than or equal to, the “Maximum Annual Assessment” as calculated under Section 7.4.

7. Using the annual ten percent increase formula set forth in Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs, the calculated Maximum Annual Assessment for the year 2020 was $2,426.00.

8. The judge concluded that the petitioner’s case was predicated on her erroneous reading of the CC&Rs. She incorrectly believed the 10% figure in Section 7.4 applied to the Annual Assessment itself, when in fact it was the automatic escalator for the Maximum Annual Assessment, which served as a ceiling for the board’s discretion.

9. The Petitioner, Jean Williams, bore the burden of proof in this proceeding. She was required to prove her allegations by a “preponderance of the evidence,” which is defined as evidence with the most convincing force.

10. The final order, issued on July 30, 2020, was that the Petitioner’s petition be dismissed. The Judge concluded that the Respondent did not violate the referenced provisions of the CC&Rs or A.R.S. § 33-1803(A).

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Essay Questions

The following questions are designed for longer-form, analytical responses. No answers are provided.

1. Analyze the distinction between “Annual Assessment” and “Maximum Annual Assessment” as defined in the Surprise Farms II CC&Rs. Explain how the petitioner’s failure to differentiate between these two terms was central to the case’s outcome.

2. Explain the interplay between the community’s CC&Rs (specifically Article VII, Sections 7.2 and 7.4) and the state law (A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)). How did the judge determine that the HOA’s actions complied with both governing authorities?

3. Describe the burden of proof in this case. Who held the burden, what was the standard required, and did they successfully meet it? Use specific details from the “CONCLUSIONS OF LAW” section to support your answer.

4. Trace the history of the assessment increases from April 2019 to April 2020. Detail the specific monetary and percentage increases for both years and explain why the 20% increase in 2020 was deemed legally permissible without a member vote, while an increase over 20% would not have been.

5. Discuss the legal reasoning behind the Administrative Law Judge’s decision to dismiss the petition. What specific conclusions of law and interpretations of the CC&Rs led directly to the ruling that the respondent did not improperly increase the annual assessment?

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Glossary of Key Terms

Definition

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)

The official, in this case Tammy L. Eigenheer, who presides over administrative hearings and makes legal decisions and rulings.

Annual Assessment

As defined in the CC&Rs, “the charge levied and assessed each year against each Lot and Parcel pursuant to Article VII, Section 7.2 hereof.” The Board has sole discretion to set this amount, as long as it does not exceed the Maximum Annual Assessment.

A.R.S. (Arizona Revised Statutes)

The codified laws of the state of Arizona. The specific statute relevant to this case is A.R.S. § 33-1803(A), which governs HOA assessment increases.

Burden of Proof

The obligation on a party in a legal proceeding to prove their allegations. In this case, the Petitioner bore the burden of proving the Respondent violated the law and CC&Rs.

CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions)

The governing legal documents that set forth the rules for a planned community or homeowners association. In this case, the CC&Rs for Surprise Farms II were recorded in 2003.

HOA (Homeowners Association)

An organization in a subdivision, planned community, or condominium that makes and enforces rules for the properties and its residents. The Surprise Farms II Community Association is the HOA in this case.

Maximum Annual Assessment

A ceiling on the Annual Assessment, established by the CC&Rs. This amount was set at $480 initially and designed to increase automatically by ten percent each year without a member vote, serving as the upper limit for the Board’s assessment-setting discretion.

Petitioner

The party who files a petition initiating a legal case. In this matter, Jean Williams was the Petitioner.

Preponderance of the Evidence

The legal standard of proof required in this proceeding. It is met when the evidence presented has the “most convincing force” and shows that a fact is more likely to be true than not true.

Respondent

The party against whom a petition is filed. In this matter, the Surprise Farms II Community Association was the Respondent.






Blog Post – 20F-H2020054-REL


Why This Homeowner Lost Her Lawsuit Against the HOA (And What You Can Learn From It)

1.0 Introduction: The Dreaded HOA Letter

It’s a scenario many homeowners fear: a letter from the Homeowners Association (HOA) announcing a significant and unexpected fee increase. The feeling of frustration and powerlessness can be overwhelming. When Jean Williams received notice that her HOA was raising her annual assessment by a full 20%, she believed the board had overstepped its authority. The increase seemed to be a clear violation of the community’s governing documents, so she decided to fight back and took her HOA to court. The outcome, however, was not what she—or many other homeowners—would have expected.

2.0 The Core Misunderstanding: “Maximum” Dues vs. “Actual” Dues

The foundation of Jean Williams’s case was her belief that the community’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) limited any annual fee increase to 10% without a vote from the members. This is where the critical misunderstanding occurred.

The judge in the case identified a crucial distinction in the legal language. The 10% limit mentioned in the CC&Rs did not apply to the Annual Assessment—the actual dollar amount billed to homeowners each year. Instead, it applied to the Maximum Annual Assessment, a theoretical ceiling on how high the fees could potentially go.

But why was this ceiling so high? The CC&Rs were designed so that this Maximum Annual Assessment would increase automatically by 10% every single year since its inception in 2003. This cumulative growth operated silently in the background for over a decade, creating a vast difference between the two figures. For the year 2020, the actual assessment billed to homeowners was $864. However, due to years of automatic increases, the allowable Maximum Annual Assessment had ballooned to $2,426. The board was operating with far more financial latitude than the petitioner realized.

3.0 How State Law Set the Real Limit at 20%

The next layer of this case involves the interplay between the HOA’s documents and state law. An Arizona state law, A.R.S. § 33-1803(A), dictates that an HOA cannot raise regular assessments by more than 20% in a single year without a vote from the majority of members, unless the community’s own documents set a lower limit.

This is the key legal point. Williams believed her community documents did set a lower limit of 10%. Critically, however, that 10% limit applied only to the wrong variable—the theoretical Maximum Annual Assessment ceiling, not the Annual Assessment actually paid. The CC&Rs’ failure to place a specific annual cap on the actual assessment created a legal vacuum. This vacuum was automatically filled by the Arizona state statute, making its 20% cap the only legally binding limit.

The HOA’s increase from $720 to $864 was exactly 20%. This placed their action right at the maximum threshold allowed by state law without requiring a member vote, making it legally permissible.

4.0 The Fine Print: The Power of “Sole Discretion”

The HOA board’s authority was further solidified by specific language embedded in its governing documents. Article VII, Section 7.2 of the CC&Rs explicitly granted the board “sole discretion” to determine the amount of the Annual Assessment.

The true power of this clause was unlocked by its connection to the two types of assessments. The board’s “sole discretion” was the legal tool that allowed them to set the Annual Assessment at any level they chose, provided it did not exceed the automatically growing Maximum Annual Assessment ceiling. With a ceiling of $2,426 and a previous fee of only $720, the board was legally empowered to enact the 20% increase without consulting homeowners.

5.0 The Judge’s Final Word: A Cautionary Tale

Ultimately, the judge concluded that the homeowner’s entire case was built on a misreading of the governing documents. The judge’s decision offers a clear and potent lesson for all homeowners, emphasizing that the precise wording of these legal documents is everything.

In the final decision, the judge wrote:

Petitioner’s assertion that Respondent could not increase the Annual Assessment by twenty percent was predicated on her erroneous reading of Article VII, Section 7.4 of the CC&Rs. … By definition, the existence of a Maximum Annual Assessment necessitates an Annual Assessment that may be less than the maximum.

The judge’s reasoning is precise: creating a “maximum” assessment in a legal document inherently implies the existence of a separate “actual” assessment that can be lower. Williams’s case collapsed because she treated these two distinct legal concepts as one and the same.

6.0 Conclusion: Are You Sure You Know What Your Documents Say?

The case of Jean Williams serves as a powerful reminder of how interlocking legal mechanics can produce unexpected outcomes. The board’s power was not derived from a single rule, but from the synthesis of three distinct elements: a high Maximum Assessment ceiling created by a silent, cumulative growth clause; the board’s “sole discretion” to set actual fees anywhere underneath that ceiling; and the state law’s 20% backstop that became the only relevant limit in the absence of a specific cap in the CC&Rs.

This case proves that the devil is truly in the details. It begs a critical question for every homeowner living in a planned community: When was the last time you read your community’s CC&Rs?


Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Jean Williams (petitioner)
    Appeared and testified on her own behalf

Respondent Side

  • Nick Nogami (HOA attorney)
    Surprise Farms II Community Association

Neutral Parties

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

Brad W. Stevens vs. Mogollon Aripark, Inc.,

Case Summary

Case ID 18F-H1818029-REL-RHG, 18F-H1818045-REL, 18F-H1818054-REL, 18F-H1818054-REL-RHG
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2019-03-01
Administrative Law Judge Thomas Shedden
Outcome partial
Filing Fees Refunded $1,500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Warren R. Brown Counsel
Respondent Mogollon Airpark, Inc. Counsel Gregory A. Stein, Esq.; Mark K. Sahl, Esq.

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)

Outcome Summary

The ALJ ruled that Mogollon Airpark, Inc. violated A.R.S. § 33-1803(A) by charging a $25 late fee, as the statutory limit applies to all assessments,. However, the ALJ found no violation regarding the $325 assessment increase because the $209 portion was a special assessment and the remaining regular increase did not exceed the 20% limit,,.

Why this result: The Petitioners' primary loss on the assessment cap issue was due to a failed legal interpretation that 'regular assessment' encompasses all assessments, a view the ALJ found would render statutory language redundant,.

Key Issues & Findings

Challenge to $325 Assessment Increase (Docket 029-RHG)

Petitioner Brown argued that 'regular assessment' refers to the procedure (motion, second, vote) and thus the entire $325 increase should be subject to the 20% cap,. The ALJ rejected this, finding that $116 was a regular increase (14.1%) and $209 was a special assessment, to which the cap did not apply,.

Orders: Petition in Docket No. 18F-H1818029-REL-RHG is dismissed.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • Deer Valley v. Houser

Excessive Late Fee and Interest (Docket 045)

Petitioner Brown alleged that the $25 late charge and interest rate exceeded the limits of A.R.S. § 33-1803(A). The ALJ ruled that the statutory limit on late fees applies to all 'assessments', not just 'regular assessments', and found the HOA in violation,.

Orders: Respondent must rescind the $25 late fee and pay Petitioner his $500 filing fee within thirty days.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • U.S. Parking Sys v. City of Phoenix

Challenge to $325 Assessment Increase (Docket 054 & Rehearing)

Petitioner Stevens argued the entire $325 must be a regular assessment because the HOA lacked authority to impose special assessments or used deceptive accounting to justify the increase,,. The ALJ found that 'regular assessment' is a specific type of assessment and the $116 increase (14.1%) did not exceed the cap,,.

Orders: Petition in Docket No. 18F-H1818054-REL and the subsequent rehearing are dismissed,.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Cited:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • A.R.S. § 33-1806
  • Northwest Fire District v. U.S. Home of Arizona

Analytics Highlights

Topics: Assessment Increase Cap, Regular Assessment vs Special Assessment, Late Fee Limit, Statutory Construction, Accounting Impropriety Allegations, Rehearing, Consolidated Matter
Additional Citations:

  • A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
  • A.R.S. § 33-1806
  • A.R.S. § 32-2199.02(B)
  • A.R.S. Title 32, Ch. 20, Art. 11
  • A.A.C. § R2-19-119
  • Deer Valley v. Houser, 214 Ariz. 293, 296, 152 P.3d 490, 493 (2007)
  • U.S. Parking Sys v. City of Phoenix, 160 Ariz. 210, 211, 772 P.2d 33, 34 (App. 1989)
  • McNally v. Sun Lakes Homeowners Ass’n #1, Inc., 241 Ariz. 1, 382 P.3d 1216 (2016 App.)
  • Tierra Ranchos Homeowners Ass'n v. Kitchukov, 216 Ariz. 195, 165 P.3d 173 (App. 2007)
  • Gutierrez v. Industrial Commission of Arizona
  • State v. McFall, 103 Ariz. 234, 238, 439 P.2d 805, 809 (1968)
  • Northwest Fire District v. U.S. Home of Arizona, 215 Ariz. 492 (2007)

Decision Documents

18F-H1818054-REL Decision – 666285.pdf

Uploaded 2025-12-19T15:21:24 (151.9 KB)

18F-H1818054-REL Decision – 672623.pdf

Uploaded 2025-12-19T15:21:25 (144.6 KB)

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Warren R. Brown (petitioner)
    Appeared on his own behalf
  • Brad W. Stevens (petitioner)
    Appeared on his own behalf and testified

Respondent Side

  • Gregory A. Stein (respondent attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN LLP
    Counsel for Respondent, referred to as Greg Stein in rehearing
  • Mark K. Sahl (respondent attorney)
    CARPENTER, HAZLEWOOD, DELGADO & BOLEN LLP
    Counsel for Respondent (also spelled Sahl/Saul)

Neutral Parties

  • Thomas Shedden (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
  • Judy Lowe (commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
  • Felicia Del Sol (staff/clerk)
    Transmitting staff

Warren R. Brown vs. Mogollon Airpark, Inc

Case Summary

Case ID 18F-H1818029-REL-RHG, 18F-H1818045-REL, 18F-H1818054-REL
Agency ADRE
Tribunal OAH
Decision Date 2018-10-18
Administrative Law Judge Thomas Shedden
Outcome partial
Filing Fees Refunded $1,500.00
Civil Penalties $0.00

Parties & Counsel

Petitioner Warren R. Brown Counsel
Respondent Mogollon Airpark, Inc. Counsel Gregory A. Stein; Mark K. Sahl

Alleged Violations

A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)
A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)

Outcome Summary

The ALJ dismissed the petitions regarding the assessment increase (Dockets 029 and 054), ruling that A.R.S. § 33-1803(A)'s 20% cap applies only to 'regular assessments' and not special assessments. However, the ALJ ruled in favor of Petitioner Brown regarding late fees (Docket 045), finding that the statutory limit on late charges applies to all assessments, ordering the HOA to rescind the $25 fee and refund the filing fee.

Why this result: For the assessment issues, the ALJ rejected the petitioners' interpretation that 'regular' refers to the approval process rather than the assessment type, finding that applying the cap to special assessments would violate principles of statutory construction.

Key Issues & Findings

Assessment Increase (Docket 029 – Brown)

Petitioner alleged the HOA violated the statute by increasing assessments by $325 (39.4%), exceeding the 20% limit.

Orders: Petition dismissed.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Late Fees (Docket 045 – Brown)

Petitioner alleged the HOA charged a $25 late fee, which exceeds the statutory limit of the greater of $15 or 10%.

Orders: Respondent ordered to rescind the $25 late fee and refund the $500 filing fee.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: Yes

Disposition: petitioner_win

Assessment Increase (Docket 054 – Stevens)

Petitioner alleged the $325 assessment increase violated the statutory 20% cap and that the HOA used deceptive accounting.

Orders: Petition dismissed.

Filing fee: $500.00, Fee refunded: No

Disposition: respondent_win

Decision Documents

18F-H1818045-REL Decision – 666285.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-27T21:14:50 (151.9 KB)

18F-H1818045-REL Decision – 672623.pdf

Uploaded 2026-01-27T21:14:51 (144.6 KB)

Based on the provided administrative hearing records, here is a summary of the proceedings for case **18F-H1818045-REL**.

### **Case Overview**
* **Case Number:** 18F-H1818045-REL (The "045" matter).
* **Petitioner:** Warren R. Brown.
* **Respondent:** Mogollon Airpark, Inc..
* **Administrative Law Judge (ALJ):** Thomas Shedden.
* **Hearing Date:** September 28, 2018.

### **Proceedings**
The hearing was a consolidated matter addressing three separate petitions: two filed by Mr. Brown (the "029" and "045" matters) and one by Brad W. Stevens (the "054" matter). While the petitions initially contained broad allegations regarding accounting improprieties and the Board's authority, the hearing was limited to specific legal questions regarding violations of **ARIZ. REV. STAT. § 33-1803(A)**,.

In the 045 matter, Mr. Brown and Mogollon agreed that the issues could be resolved as a matter of law without presenting witnesses,.

### **Key Facts and Main Issues**
Mogollon Airpark raised its 2018 assessment by $325 and instituted a **$25 late fee** and **18% interest** for past due accounts.

**The specific issue in the 045 matter** was whether these late charges violated A.R.S. § 33-1803(A).
* **Statutory Context:** The statute states that charges for late payment are limited to "the greater of fifteen dollars or ten percent of the amount of the unpaid assessment".
* **Petitioner's Argument:** Mr. Brown argued that the $25 fee exceeded the statutory limit of "$15.00 or 10%",. He requested the unlawful penalties be voided.
* **Respondent's Argument:** Mogollon argued that the statutory limits in § 33-1803(A) apply only to "regular assessments." They contended that because the late fee was applied to a "special assessment," the statutory cap did not apply,.

### **Legal Analysis and Decision**
The Administrative Law Judge ruled in favor of Mr. Brown regarding the 045 matter.

**Statutory Interpretation:**
The ALJ rejected Mogollon's argument that the late fee cap applies only to regular assessments. The decision noted that while the statute mentions "regular assessment" in the context of capping annual increases, the sentence regarding late fees refers simply to "assessments",.
* The ALJ cited principles of statutory construction, stating that courts should not read terms (such as the word "regular") into a section where the legislature chose to omit them,.
* Consequently, the statutory cap applies to *all* assessments, rendering Mogollon's $25 late fee a violation of the statute,.

### **Final Outcome**
While the petitions challenging the assessment increase itself (029 and 054) were dismissed, Mr. Brown prevailed in the 045 matter regarding the late fees.

**Order:**
1. **Violation Found:** Mr. Brown showed by a preponderance of the evidence that the $25 late charge violated § 33-1803(A),.
2. **Remedy:** Mogollon Airpark, Inc. was ordered to **rescind the $25 late fee** assessed against Mr. Brown,.
3. **Costs:** Mogollon was ordered to reimburse Mr. Brown his **$500.00 filing fee** within 30 days of the Order,.

Case Participants

Petitioner Side

  • Warren R. Brown (petitioner)
    Petitioner in docket Nos. 18F-H1818029-REL-RHG and 18F-H1818045-REL; appeared on his own behalf
  • Brad W. Stevens (petitioner)
    Petitioner in docket No. 18F-H1818054-REL; appeared on his own behalf

Respondent Side

  • Gregory A. Stein (respondent attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen LLP
    Attorney for Respondent Mogollon Airpark, Inc.
  • Mark K. Sahl (respondent attorney)
    Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen LLP
    Attorney for Respondent Mogollon Airpark, Inc.

Neutral Parties

  • Thomas Shedden (ALJ)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
    Administrative Law Judge presiding over the consolidated hearing
  • Judy Lowe (Commissioner)
    Arizona Department of Real Estate
    Recipient of the transmitted decision
  • Felicia Del Sol (clerk)
    Office of Administrative Hearings
    Transmitted the decision