QUESTION: When, as an owner, I ask for a list of directors' names with addresses and phone numbers, the board answers that this cannot be done because of "privacy." Is this the long and short answer? Is there something that is not being said?

ANSWER: Directors are volunteers and have legitimate privacy concerns. There are always dysfunctional members of associations who harass members of the board. Sometimes the harassment is so intense that restraining orders are sought (and granted). Directors have a right to feel secure in their own homes and not be subjected to late night phone calls and knocks at the door.

If an owner wants to contact the board, he/she can do so by attending board meetings or by writing the board. However, members (even the "difficult" ones) have a right to the membership list. The list provides the names and addresses of all members, but should not contain telephone numbers or email addresses. Even so, owners (including directors) have the right to opt out of the list.