In a recent meeting of the Tolland School District, a significant discussion unfolded regarding the challenges faced by condominium owners in the wake of legislative changes affecting property classifications. Frank Perzano, a member of the Condo 5 group, shared insights into the complexities that arose when buildings with more than four units were reclassified as commercial properties, thereby excluding them from certain public tax benefits.
The conversation highlighted the legislative journey that began in October 2018, when the group realized that many condominiums, including Perzano's own building with eight units, would not qualify for essential government funding. This prompted a concerted effort to advocate for new legislation, which ultimately succeeded in 2019 when a bill was signed into law, allowing these properties to receive necessary support.
Perzano recounted the unique challenges of coordinating repairs among multiple families, emphasizing the difficulty of getting consensus from residents when it came to inspections and repairs. The process required special inspectors and significant communication to ensure everyone understood the implications of the foundation issues that had plagued their buildings.
Despite the successful completion of repairs for four buildings by July, Perzano noted ongoing struggles with rising insurance costs. He revealed that their condo master policy nearly tripled in price, largely due to fears surrounding potential foundation problems in buildings that had not yet experienced issues. This increase in insurance rates has left many residents concerned about the financial implications of maintaining their homes.
The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with Perzano expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to the successful repair of the condominiums. He acknowledged the importance of community engagement and legislative support in overcoming what began as a daunting crisis. As the district continues to navigate these challenges, the resilience of its residents and their commitment to advocacy remains a testament to their strength in the face of adversity.