HOAs and Metro Districts 101
HOAs and Metro Districts 101: What You Need to Know
As a resident of Severance, you might have come across terms like HOA (Homeowners' Association) and Metro District, but what exactly do they mean, and how do they impact your life in our community? Here's a quick and easy guide to help you understand these entities' roles and how they differ from municipal services provided by the Town of Severance.
What is an HOA?
An HOA, or Homeowners' Association, is a private organization that manages and maintains a specific neighborhood or community. Developers typically establish HOAs when a residential area is built.
Responsibilities of an HOA:
- Enforcing neighborhood rules and covenants (e.g., lawn care standards, home appearance).
- Managing shared amenities like pools, trails, open spaces, parks, or clubhouses
- Collecting dues or assessments from residents to fund these services.
Who Oversees HOAs?
HOAs are governed by a Board of Directors, usually elected by homeowners within the community. They are also subject to state laws, such as the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act (CCIOA), which ensures transparency and fairness in HOA operations. If you have issues with you HOA, you can address them through the HOA's complaint process, mediation, or even legal action if necessary.
What is a Metro District?
A Metro District, short for Metropolitan District, is a special district that function as a local government entity. These districts are designed to provide public services and infrastructure, such as water, sewer, roads, and parks, within their boundaries.
Responsibilities of a Metro District:
- Building and maintaining infrastructure.
- Managing shared amenities like pools, trails, open spaces, ponds, parks, or clubhouses.
- Providing essentials services like trash collection, streetlights, and parks.
- Funding these projects through property taxes, fees, and bonds.
Who Oversees Metro Districts?
Metro Districts are managed by a Board of Directors. While developers often appoint the initial board, residents within the district can vote for board members over time. The Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) oversees Metro Districts, ensuring compliance with financial and operational regulations.
HOAs vs Metro Districts Key Differences
| Aspect | HOA | Metro District |
| Purpose | Manage private community rules and amenities | Provide public infrastructure and services |
| Funding | Homeowner dues and assessments | Property taxes, fees, and bonds |
| Scope | Limited to specific HOA neighborhoods | Covers the entire district area |
| Governance | HOA Board elected by homeowners | Metro District Board elected by residents |
| Accountability | HOA members and state laws | Residents, state oversight (DOLA) |
How Does Municipal Code Enforcement Fit in?
The Town of Severance also plays a critical role in maintaining our community. Municipal Code Enforcement ensures compliance with local ordinances, such as property maintenance, water restrictions, yard weeds, animal, and noise control. It also addresses community public health, safety, and quality-of-life issues. Unlike HOAs, which enforce private covenants, and Metro Districts, which manage infrastructure, municipal enforcement focuses on public health and safety. Violations can result in fines or legal action. Municipal code enforcement follows directives outlined by elected officials of the Town Council. Code Enforcement officers are municipal employees who report to the Chief of Police.
Who Does What in Severance?
- HOAs manage private neighborhood rules and amenities. They may have stricter standards than the Town's municipal codes.
- Metro Districts handle larger-scale infrastructure and public services funded through taxes and fees. They also manage private neighborhood rules and amenities. They may have stricter standards than the Town's municipal codes.
- The Town of Severance oversees municipal code enforcement, public safety, and broader community services.
Why This Matters to You?
Understanding the roles of HOAs, Metro Districts and municipal services can help you navigate living in Seveance. Whether maintaining your lawn, paying property taxes, or addressing a public safety concern, knowing who to contact can save you time and energy.
If you have questions about you HOA, contact your HOA Board. For Metro District concerns, check with your Metro District Board or visit the Colorado Department of Local Affairs website. Don't hesitate to contact the Town of Severance directly for questions about municipal services.
Together, these entities work to make Severance a great place to live---combining small-town charm with infrastructure and amenities you need.