Where can I find a good general description of what an NYC co-op board member does?

Answer 1

The best general description of any association board member is this: Act in ways that protect the real estate assets owned in common by all owners.

Longer Answer Educating yourself as to the duties and responsibilities of your community's board means fully understanding the guidelines that cover your actions.

You can start with your existing board members and your association management company, if any, to learn what you can about your community which is unique and practical.

Re-read the past three years worth of board meeting minutes, and review financials from three years past, to learn more about current issues and situations.

(This doesn't mean that you must necessarily 'do it this way', because it's always 'been done this way.)

Your first source is your governing documents. Then, your association is probably a corporation, and there are state laws that govern corporations.

Industry options include Community Associations Institute (CAI), a nation-wide organization dedicated to educating and supporting people who invest in living in communities with shared ownership. (Link, below.)

Finally, and particularly in New York City, there are groups of co-op board members who meet regularly to share information, experiences and ideas.

You can read more about the Council of New York Cooperatives and Condominiums, below. (NB: This reference is not an endorsement.)