FAQs
Why should I consider board service?
Kiawah needs good leaders and the board needs volunteers with certain areas of expertise, depending on what talents are currently on the board. Board service is a unique way that a member can give back to the community. Board members can help shape the future of the island. The association is proud that its members are some of the most skilled, educated and involved people in the nation. This is certainly a major reason why Kiawah has enjoyed success over the years.
What is the process for becoming a board candidate?
Members interested in becoming a candidate first need to submit an application by the published deadlines, along with a Statement of Intent to Run, signed by two other KICA members - one making the nomination, and the other making the second. You are also asked to submit a one-paragraph biography with position statement (a maximum of approximately 200 words), and a signed Fair Campaign Pledge. Candidates will also participate in a Meet the Candidates forum. For more details, visit Board Services.
What is the role of the KICA board?
The KICA board acts as the governing body for the community association. According to the bylaws, "The board helps steer major policy decisions, establishes and drives both the association's mission and vision, engages in planning, and hires the chief operating officer (COO)...The board and COO act in accordance with applicable federal, state and local ordinances and the association's own governing documents..."
How long does a board member serve?
Board members are elected to three-year terms and serve from annual meeting to annual meeting.
What are my specific responsibilities as a board member?
Board members are expected to prepare for, attend, and conscientiously participate in board and committee meetings. They develop, review and monitor the strategic plan, as well as financial plans, including budgets and investments. Under South Carolina law, they exercise fiduciary duties of care and undivided loyalty, ensuring they make informed decisions that serve the interests of KICA as a whole, rather than any special interest group or constituency. Board members also have the opportunity to become involved in or lead task forces that focus on special issues, and they serve as liaisons to other entities involved in the community. To ensure understanding of their responsibilities, board members are required to participate in orientation sessions, which are typically scheduled within two months of the annual board election.
How often does the board meet?
Board meetings are generally held every other month. Meetings are usually scheduled well in advance to enable the board member to arrange their calendars accordingly so they can be present. Directors who cannot be present for a meeting may arrange to participate by conference call. The board also holds Strategic Planning Committee meetings in months alternating from board meetings. In addition, board members' liaison duties usually require monthly meetings.
How much of my time will board service require?
Board meetings generally last two to three hours, and may require anywhere from one to four hours of preparation, depending on the number and complexity of issues on the agenda. Committee meetings, which may occur monthly, also require some advance preparation. To be realistic, board members may need to be able to set aside an average of ten to twenty hours monthly for board service, and officers will spend more time, as they have additional leadership responsibilities. That said, directors will have ample time to travel, play golf, and enjoy other community activities. As with any business, there will be periods of intense activity and periods where there is a lull. It is not so much the overall time factor that is important, but your ability to actively participate and carry your share of the board's duties. Without your active participation, board governance will be weakened, and you will not be fulfilling your fiduciary responsibilities.
How many people are on the board?
Currently, there are seven directors on the board, six elected member directors an one director appointed by the developer.
How do I know if I am qualified for board service?
Aside from being able to participate in board meetings, there are no formal requirements for board service. However, experience suggests that it is highly desirable for candidates to be members of KICA and to have served on KICA committees, so they understand the issues that are important to KICA as well as the association's culture and operations.
What is the legal protection for a board member?
KICA carries directors and officers insurance (D&O), which provides coverage for legal defense and/or damages, except for illegal actions and willful wrongdoing. Also the KICA bylaws contain a personal indemnification clause for directors (Article IV, Section 2), which is required by SC nonprofit incorporation laws.
Am I compensated for board service?
Association directors are volunteers and are not financially compensated. They may, however, incur incidental costs, for long-distance calls, paper or printing, for example which can be reimbursed. Directors living outside the local area may incur travel costs, some of which can also be reimbursed. Membership in the Community Associations Institute is provided free of charge by KICA, to provide board members with an understanding of the broader issues facing community associations nationwide.