Archive >> South BR >> December 2007/January 2008 >> Articles >> FGBRCA News: Create a Closer Community by Uniting Your Civic Association

18/Dec/2007

Federation of Greater Baton Rouge Civic Associations:
Create a Closer Community By Uniting Your Civic Association


By Wayne S. Woody
President-FGBRCA

Hi Neighbors!

Many of you may be familiar with the Federation of Greater Baton Rouge Civic Associations (FGBRCA), but for those who are not, this letter is an introduction.

FGBRCA is an umbrella organization representing single family home owners in EBR neighborhoods. Our subdivision associations often vary in legal structure, but all aim to promote the interests of their subdivisions.

Subdivision associations are typically structured in three different ways:

Some are composed of all residents in that subdivision because the community restrictions require membership. These associations are the main governing body for their subdivision after the authority is transferred to them by the subdivision’s original developer. The associations set fees that all members are required to pay.

Certain subdivision associations require membership but address social activities as well as governance issues.

Finally, there are subdivision associations that are strictly social in nature. They have no governing power and their principle purpose is to foster social interaction within their subdivision. Membership and payment of fees are voluntary.

The FGBRCA was founded in 1972 to help these groups better the lives of its members. We provide advice on how to set up your association, communicate shared community experiences, and represent those common interests throughout the rest of the EBR community.

We seek to do this by holding monthly general meetings, often with guest speakers. The Mayor-President and most Metro Council members have addressed us, as well as Police Chief, Sheriff, Assessor, and Legislators. These public officials want to better inform us of their roles and help us achieve our goals within the community.

FGBRCA recently embarked on a two year program that will conclude with the publication of a manual entitled “Best Practices for Subdivision Management.”

We have found that there is strength in numbers. This is especially true when dealing with external matters like advocating positions before the Planning Commission and Metro Council, or participating on public boards, commissions and committees. FGBRCA is recognized as a responsible voice for our community.

We meet on the second Thursday of each month (except July) at the BREC Tennis Center on 7505 Independence Blvd. from 7-9 p.m.

Consider this an invitation to join us at our Jan. 10 or Feb. 8 general meeting. You will get a feel for our activities and see for yourself the potential value we can offer to your own association.

I look forward to our next letter.