Dear Newly Elected Director:

Congratulations on your election to the board of your community association.  James City County recognizes not only your commitment to your neighborhood and to your community but your gifts of time, talent and energy and for that we are most grateful.
In addition to the various articles of interest to you as a board member and as well as a member of your association, we have included numerous brochures and information on community resources.   We hope you find it helpful in your new role.

As a newly elected board member, you have an obligation of "fiduciary duty" to the association. This means that you must perform your duties as a board member in good faith and with the degree of care that an ordinarily prudent person would use under similar circumstances, being at all times loyal to the association and its best interests.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow:

1. Act in the best interest of the community as a whole.
2. Have a duty to treat all owners equally without regard to self interest.
3. Have a duty not to self deal (avoid conflicts of interest).
4. Responsible for enforcement of Covenants & Architectural controls.

The issues that you and your neighborhood face are but a microcosm of the larger community. The Board of Supervisors and County Administration are very much interested in hearing from you on your ideas, concerns or issues affecting your quality of life here in James City County.

Our hope is that this notebook will be an invaluable resource to you and the other officers on your board as you lead your neighborhood.  As you use this notebook, please let us know what was helpful and if you would like other information included.

You have undertaken an important job in your community and we appreciate your service.

Sincerely,