A new year means new goals! As we turn the corner into 2024, this issue of CUP spotlights helpful tips so your community association can start the year off right. This includes adoption of the annual budget, a review of new legislation, and the responsibilities of residents in communal situations. Don’t miss our featured podcast […]
Read MoreResults
2024 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America Recognizes 34 Becker Attorneys
The 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, one of the oldest and most revered peer review publications, recognizes 34 Becker attorneys across the Firm’s practices. Our own Steven B. Lesser, was also recognized as Lawyer of the Year, a distinction based on the highest overall peer feedback for their specialty and location. Lesser […]
Read More2022 Hurricane Nicole Permit Extension Opportunity Extended Further
Property owners, developers, construction industry professionals, and other permit- and authorization-holders may have even more opportunities for further extensions due to Hurricane Nicole in 2022. The following provides an overview of the permit extensions available under law, including what gives rise to the extensions, the types of permits and authorizations that are covered, and how […]
Read MoreYou May Be Able to Extend Your Permit Expiration Dates Due to Hurricane Idalia – Here’s How
As Hurricane Idalia heads for Florida’s Gulf Coast, some property owners, developers, construction industry professionals, and other building permit- and authorization-holders may be eligible for extensions to preserve their development and construction rights. A Florida law allows certain qualifying permits and authorizations to be extended beyond their current expiration dates once the Governor issues a […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – July 2023
The 2023 Legislative Session brought significant changes for community associations in Florida. In this issue, we aim to provide you with a thorough review and understanding of these new laws. From multifamily property safety to the preparation and response of natural disasters, we provide practical tips to help you understand these new changes. Don’t miss our featured podcast episode, […]
Read MoreFlorida Governor Signs SB 250 into Law
On June 28, 2023, the Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law Senate Bill 250 (see Chapter 2023-304, Laws of Florida), which makes various amendments throughout the Florida Statutes regarding the preparation and response activities of state and local governments when natural emergencies impact the state. Supporters of Senate Bill 250 (the “Bill”) believe the Bill […]
Read MoreFlorida’s “Live Local Act” Takes Effect
On March 29, 2023, the Governor signed the “Live Local Act” (SB 102) into law. The Act is designed to increase the availability of affordable housing opportunities for Florida’s workforce, and includes funding appropriated for affordable and workforce housing initiatives, downpayment assistance, and tax credit programs. Local jurisdictions are also now preempted on certain land […]
Read MoreThe Becker Insider | June 2023
The Becker Insider provides recent news and unique perspectives into the Florida policy issues that matter most to you. At Becker, we believe that our strengths truly lie in our differences. Our local, state, and federal lobbying teams have deep and longstanding relationships across the political spectrum, allowing us to better champion the interests of […]
Read MoreBecker Attorneys in Florida, New Jersey, and New York Recognized as 2022-2023 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars
Becker is thrilled to announce that several attorneys in the firm’s Florida, New Jersey, and New York offices have been named as 2022-2023 Super Lawyers, an honor that recognizes the top 5% of the total lawyers in any given state. Additionally, Becker attorneys recognized as Rising Stars represent the top 2.5% of attorneys under 40 […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – May 2023
This edition of Becker’s Community Update highlights remote voting, managing your personnel, and constitutional rights. Don’t miss the 50th anniversary video that showcases Becker’s rich history and culture. Also featured this month is our Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery Guide. While we hope to be spared from the worst, it’s crucial that your community association is […]
Read MoreGetting “Flag Ready” for the Fourth of July
Flags serve as a powerful symbol of a nation, its ideals, and its people, and their display in community associations is addressed under State law. The Florida Condominium Act permits a unit owner to display, in a respectful manner, one portable, removable United States flag and portable, removable official flags, not larger than 4.5-feet by […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – April 2023
The 2023 Legislative Session has brought significant changes to Community Associations. In this Community Update, we address new restrictions on design and construction defect claims as well as recent amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code. Don’t miss the latest podcast featuring Dr. Esber Andiroglu, Professor Harold R. Wanless, and Donna DiMaggio Berger on the […]
Read More“‘NIMBY’ to ‘YIMBY’” – FCAP Managers Report
You have probably heard of the term “NIMBY,” which is the acronym for “Not in My Back Yard.” It is the attitude of some who oppose new development, fearing that it will adversely affect them in terms of architectural style, adverse impacts to views, housing density, or traffic, for example. However, with some proactive investments […]
Read More“Called To A Deposition or Court? Here Are A Few Tips” – Florida Planning
Community Association attorney, Katie Berkey, AICP, co-authored the article, “Called To A Deposition or Court? Here Are A Few Tips” in the Winter 2023 Florida Planning newsletter. Katie shares informative tips if you are ever called to serve as a witness. The article states that it is natural to be anxious, but if you keep […]
Read MoreCandid Conversations on Community Association Living
Becker’s Take It To The Board podcast, hosted by shareholder Donna DiMaggio Berger, explores the reality of life in a community association. Among many special guests, nine Becker attorneys from across the firm, have appeared and discussed their area of expertise as it relates to community living. Tune in for these candid discussions which just might […]
Read MoreThe Impact of Construction Next Door on Your Community with Katie Berkey, AICP, Becker & Poliakoff
For more episodes of Take It To The Board, click here! This week, Becker Shareholder Kathleen “Katie” Berkey, AICP, sits down with Donna DiMaggio Berger and explains how she helps clients deal with all sorts of issues related to their property. As Mark Twain once said, “Buy land, they’re not making it anymore,” and truer words have […]
Read MoreUpdate: Additional Opportunity to Extend Certain Permits Due to Hurricane Nicole
Property owners, developers, construction industry professionals, and other permit- and authorization-holders may have even more opportunities for further extensions due to Hurricane Nicole in 2022. The following provides an overview of the permit extensions available under law, including what gives rise to the extensions, the types of permits and authorizations that are covered, and how […]
Read MoreBecker Counted Among the Top 25 Corporate Philanthropists of South Florida for the Second Year in a Row
Delivering platinum service to our clients and community is at the very heart of Becker, and we are thrilled to be counted among the top 25 corporate philanthropists of South Florida as recognized by the South Florida Business Journal for the second year in a row. Becker attorneys and professionals are heavily involved in charitable […]
Read MoreWebinar: Concerns Regarding Construction Next Door
The webinar is designed to teach volunteer board members and managers what concerns they should be aware of and what steps they need to take when new development near an existing community is contemplated and ultimately undertaken. Panelists will discuss: What an existing community can do to mitigate the impact of new construction The […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – October 2022
Becker is deeply saddened by the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. Ian has taken lives, destroyed homes and property, and ravaged entire infrastructure systems of towns and cities. As we turn our eyes to recovery, Becker is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, November 9 at 12:00 PM EST to review important information on how to […]
Read MoreUpdate: Opportunity To Extend Certain Permits Due to Hurricane Ian Continues
Property owners, developers, construction industry professionals, and other permit- and authorization-holders may have even more opportunities for further extensions due to Hurricane Ian in 2022. The following provides an overview of the permit extension available under law, including what gives rise to the extensions, the types of permits and authorizations that are covered, and how […]
Read MoreBecker Attorneys in Florida, New York, and New Jersey Recognized as 2022 Super Lawyers
Becker is thrilled to announce that several attorneys in the firm’s Florida and New Jersey offices have been named as 2022 Super Lawyers, an honor that recognizes the top 5% of the total lawyers in any given state. Additionally, Becker attorneys recognized as Rising Stars represent the top 2.5% of attorneys under 40 years old, […]
Read More2023 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America Recognizes 33 Becker Attorneys
The 2023 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, one of the oldest and most revered peer review publications, honors 33 Becker attorneys across the Firm’s practices. Two Becker attorneys, Joseph Adams and Sanjay Kurian, were also recognized as Lawyer of the Year, a distinction that comes with the highest overall peer feedback for their […]
Read MorePaul Shur, Katie Berkey Represent Parklands West Community Development District in Complex Bond Refunding
Financial Services Shareholder Paul H. Shur led the representation of Parklands West Community Development District (CDD) in closing a third-generation tax exempt refunding bond which will fund special assessments used for community improvements. Shareholder Katie Berkey, who is Board certified in City, County, and Local Government Law, assisted with the complicated financing. Compliance with Florida’s […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – April 2022
In this edition of the Community Update, we address transparency in condominium and homeowners’ associations’, issues associated with alcohol consumption on association property, what associations can and cannot do about solar panels, and even how the Constitution applies to private community associations. Many condominium and homeowners’ associations’ activities are required to have a certain amount […]
Read MoreThe ABC’s – Alcohol Sales, BYOB, and Related Considerations
Does your association include facilities that serve and sell alcohol? Is the association property zoned to permit alcohol-related uses? Does your association hold any alcoholic beverage licenses from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcohol Beverages and Tobacco (“Division”) and corresponding local government approvals and, if so, what is the geographical […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – March 2022
Florida’s 60-day legislative session recently concluded without passing any major community association legislation. Find out what happened in this month’s “Did You Know” feature, and for a deeper dive on the topic, tune in to the most recent episode of Becker podcast, “Take it to the Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger.” Construction projects, like life, […]
Read MoreCommunity Association Due Process Rights with Respect to Neighboring Developments
If your community association receives notice about a public hearing to consider or approve a development proposal on adjacent land, does the association or its members have a right to object? Yes, local governments must afford objecting property owners and residents procedural due process, which includes fair notice of the public hearings at which the […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – February 2022
Becker’s Take it to the Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger podcast features a variety of guests including our very own attorneys from across the firm’s practice areas and offices. Check out this month’s “Did You Know” section for more information and to tune in to these insightful episodes that delve into everything from handling construction issues to […]
Read More“Honey, Those Neighbors Are At It Again! Call Code Enforcement!”
There was a time, not so long ago, when Floridians could easily, and anonymously, report known or suspected violations of local ordinances and regulations to code enforcement. Neighbors could report their concerns about abandoned or unsafe structures, building without permits or by unlicensed contractors, unpermitted uses of property, noise violations, storing inoperable vehicles and junk, […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – December 2021
Before heading into the New Year, we look back at the year’s most popular reads. This month’s featured articles highlight the topics you found most interesting in 2021 – from fining committees to questions about remote meetings. From all of us at Becker, we wish you a happy holiday and a joyous, healthy, and prosperous […]
Read MoreBecker Launches Interdisciplinary Sea Level Rise Advisory Team to Serve Florida’s Coastal Residents
As one of the first law firms in Florida to address the legal issues stemming from sea level rise, Becker is excited to announce its interdisciplinary Sea Level Rise Advisory Team which includes experienced and knowledgeable lawyers ready to assist our clients in preparing for the future. Our multifaceted team is comprised of specialists at […]
Read MoreBecker Counted Among the Top 25 Corporate Philanthropists of South Florida
Delivering platinum service to our clients and community is at the very heart of Becker, and we are thrilled to be counted among the top 25 corporate philanthropists of South Florida as recognized by the South Florida Business Journal. Becker attorneys and professionals are heavily involved in charitable and community causes including: University of Miami Alan […]
Read MoreBecker Shareholder Kathleen Berkey Named Top 2021 APEX Awards Recipient
Becker is proud to announce that Kathleen O. Berkey was named 2021 APEX Awards recipient at the annual event of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee. The APEX Awards recognize local women with outstanding reputations for professionalism, philanthropy and leadership. Katie Berkey is a Board Certified Specialist in City, County […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – October 2021
In addition to this month’s featured articles, don’t miss all new episodes of our podcast, “Take it to the Board.” In the most recent episode, host Donna DiMaggio Berger is joined by Becker Employment Law Shareholder Jamie Dokovna for an informative discussion on best practices to create and protect a safe work environment. Learn what Jamie thinks […]
Read MoreBecker Succeeds In Defeating Proposed Tampa Rezoning at 200 S. Hoover Blvd.
September 28, 2021, Ft. Lauderdale, FL — Becker, a multi-practice commercial law firm with attorneys, lobbyists, and other professionals at offices throughout the East Coast, announced that it succeeded in defeating a proposed rezoning at 200 South Hoover Boulevard in Tampa. Becker represented Save Beach Park LLC (“SBP”), an organization with several hundred Beach Park […]
Read More“Natural Nurturer” & Becker Shareholder Katie Berkey Featured in eBella Magazine
Written by eBella Magazine Staff Writers As a young girl, Katie Berkey grew up in the background of public hearings and planning committees in rural, Redding, Connecticut. She and her sister were deeply influenced by their parents, who were very involved in local politics. They often spoke about real estate development issues related to historic […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – September 2021
It may not quite feel like it yet in Florida, but Fall is officially here. This of course means busy season has arrived for many associations as residents head south for the winter months. Check out this month’s issue for several informative articles to help set your board up for success. Also, be sure to […]
Read More“Hurricane Window Protection Policies & Local Regulations” – CAI Community Voice
In the wake of Tropical Storm/Category 1 Hurricane Elsa, and with September being National Preparedness Month, hurricane preparations are top of mind for many owners and associations, as are considerations for how long hurricane shutters, plywood, or other protective window coverings should remain in place following an active threat of a storm. Section 718.113(5) of […]
Read MoreBecker Attorneys in Florida, New Jersey, and New York Recognized by 2021 Super Lawyers
Becker is thrilled to announce that several attorneys in the firm’s Florida and New Jersey offices have been named as 2021 Super Lawyers, an honor that recognizes the top 5% of the total lawyers in any given state. Additionally, Becker attorneys recognized as Rising Stars represent the top 2.5% of attorneys under 40 years old, […]
Read MoreBecker Shareholder & Certified Planner Katie Berkey Appointed to Florida Bar’s Board Certification Committee
The Florida Bar recently appointed Katie Berkey, a shareholder and certified Professional Planner with Becker & Poliakoff, to serve on the City, County & Local Government Certification Committee. Katie, who is Florida Bar Board Certified in City, County and Local Government Law, will serve a 3-year term that began on July 1, 2021. “Katie is […]
Read MoreGovernor Ends COVID-19 State of Emergency – Opportunity to Extend Certain Permits Remains
Florida Governor DeSantis recently allowed Executive Order No. 20-52, which originally declared a State of Emergency for the entire State on March 9, 2020 in response to confirmed COVID-19 cases in Florida, to expire after eight (8) extensions¹. Section 252.363(1)(a), Florida Statutes, provides that certain qualifying permits and authorizations are eligible for an extension once […]
Read MoreBecker Signs The Diversity in Government Relations Coalition Industry Pledge
Becker is proud to announce that the firm has signed The Diversity in Government Relations Coalition Industry Pledge. The DGR Coalition aspires to foster and strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion among entities that influence local, state, and federal policy through data collection, strategic communications, and stakeholder engagement. This pledge is part of its greater non-partisan […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – May 2021
This month, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of new community association podcast, “Take it to the Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger.” The podcast explores the reality of life in a community association, what’s really involved in serving on its board, and how to maintain the ever-so-delicate balance of being legally compliant and community spirited. Check out […]
Read More“Hurricane Shutter Policies Raise Questions” – News-Press
Q: Can hurricane shutters remain closed when a home is unoccupied throughout the summer, even when there is not an active threat of a storm? (D.F., via e-mail) A: It depends on the local codes and ordinances regulating the home, and the terms of your association’s governing documents. The Florida Fire Prevention Code and the […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – March 2021
Paperwork isn’t the most glamorous part of being a community association member, but this edition of Becker’s Community Update outlines why ignoring administrative tasks would be a big mistake. From governing documents and electoral procedures to zoning and entitlement status, having your details safely squared away sets you and your community on the right path. […]
Read MoreSPOTLIGHT: Kathleen Berkey, Government Law & Lobbying
In celebration of Women’s History Month, Becker showcases the inspiration, philosophies, and expertise of the women attorneys and lobbyists who help elevate our firm and client service. Kathleen “Katie” Berkey is a Florida Bar Board Certified Specialist (BCS) in City, County and Local Government Law and a certified Professional Planner by the American Institute of […]
Read MoreCondo/Co-Op/HOA Meeting Agendas & Notice Requirements
Florida laws governing community associations require notice of meetings to encourage owner participation. Here is a helpful guide summarizing the notice requirements under statute; however, this guide is not intended to be all inclusive and is only for general reference.
Read MorePending Legislation Aims to Relieve Processing Headache During Natural Emergency
New bill would expand list of permits and authorizations qualifying for extension due to a Governor-declared natural emergency. Section 252.363(1)(a), Florida Statutes, provides that certain permits and authorizations are eligible for an extension once a natural emergency is declared by the Governor for the length of time the declaration is in effect plus an additional […]
Read MorePhony Parking Violation Letters in Condominiums
Condominium living has its advantages and challenges – one such challenge is often parking. Today, people move into these communities with several vehicles in tow and in condominiums, there is limited space in the parking garages and parking areas for unit owners and their guests. Sometimes this results in unit owners taking parking, that violates the t
Read MoreCOVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Presents New Challenges for Boards and Their Management Professionals
The unprecedented challenges of this year have been difficult for us all. These challenges are magnified for volunteer board members having to make hard decisions which impact not only themselves, but their family, friends, and neighbors. As we turn to a new year, exciting news of advancements and wider distribution of COVID-19 vaccines appear on […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – September 2020
Can you believe it’s autumn already? National and local elections are fast approaching and the chatter about whether or not political signs should be permitted in private residential communities is building. We delve into this issue as well as discuss how to keep your HOA director elections, which are also on the horizon, from turning […]
Read MorePhony Parking Violation Letters in Condominiums
Condominium living has its advantages and challenges – one such challenge is often parking. Today, people move into these communities with several vehicles in tow and in condominiums, there is limited space in the parking garages and parking areas for unit owners and their guests. Sometimes this results in unit owners taking parking, that violates […]
Read MoreGovernor Declares State of Emergency Due to Hurricane Isaias
On July 31, 2020, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order No. 20-181, declaring a sixty (60) day a State of Emergency in each county along Florida’s east coast ahead of Hurricane Isaias. This includes areas from Miami-Dade to Nassau counties.
Read MoreFlorida Supreme Court Rules COVID-19 Pandemic Constitutes “Natural Emergency”
Governor Extends COVID-19 State of Emergency by 60 Days – Opportunities to Extend Certain Permits May Be Available to Associations Section 252.363(1)(a), Florida Statutes, provides that certain qualifying permits and authorizations are eligible for an extension once certain States of Emergency are declared for the length of time the declaration is in effect plus an […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – June 2020
June means the start of Hurricane season in Florida and while we always hope for a quiet year, it’s important that your community take steps now to ensure preparedness should disaster strike. This issue includes Becker’s newly interactive 2020 Hurricane Guide which provides important tips and information to help prepare and protect your community. Make […]
Read MoreSlowly Getting Over the Hump: Addressing Speeding with Traffic Calming Devices
Between kids at play, exterior maintenance projects, pedestrians, and cyclists, your association could be seriously impacted by speeders. As a follow up to Jennifer Horan, Esquire’s article “Slow Your Roll: How to Address Speeding Issues in your Association,” published on October 28, 2019, can or should your association install traffic calming devices, like speed bumps […]
Read MoreFlorida Governor Extends COVID-19 State of Emergency Another 60 Days: State and Local Opportunities to Extend Certain Permits in Florida Due to COVID-19 May Be Available
Section 252.363(1)(a), Florida Statutes, provides that certain qualifying permits and authorizations are eligible for an extension once certain States of Emergency are declared for the length of time the declaration is in effect plus an additional six (6) months. A written request for such an extension must be submitted to the authorizing governmental agency within […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – April 2020
Our featured article, “Obtaining a Bank Loan; Step-by-Step,” explores the process of attaining a line of credit. A loan can help an association ensure they have necessary funding to navigate through an emergency, whether it be due to the coronavirus, hurricane season, or otherwise. We live in an age where the lack of civility has become […]
Read More“Don’t Tread on Me”: The Permissibility of the Gadsden Flag in Your Community
Is flying the Gadsden flag (i.e., the yellow “Don’t Tread on Me” flag with a snake) considered a flag of the United States of America and is it permissible in your community association? It depends.
Read MoreKathleen Berkey Recognized Among eBella Magazine’s “Winning Women”
Kathleen Berkey was featured in the April 2020 issue of eBella Magazine as one of their “Winning Women” for her work as a top attorney and environmental activist. As a child in rural Redding, Connecticut, Kathleen would often hear her parents discuss real estate development issues related to historic preservation and the environment. She says […]
Read MoreState and Local Opportunities to Extend Certain Permits in Florida Due to COVID-19 May Be Available to Associations
As discussed in our earlier post on March 20, community associations may have access to an extension of opportunities for permits. Although Section 252.363(1)(a), Florida Statutes, as amended in 2019, only provides that certain qualifying permits and authorizations are eligible for an extension once certain “natural emergency” states of emergency are declared, there has been […]
Read MoreOpportunities to Extend Certain Permits in Florida Due to COVID-19 May Be Available
Section 252.363(1)(a), Florida Statutes, provides that certain qualifying permits and authorizations are eligible for an extension once certain States of Emergency are declared for the length of time the declaration is in effect plus an additional six (6) months. A written request for such an extension must be submitted to the authorizing governmental agency within […]
Read MoreThe Becker Insider | March 2020
The Becker Insider provides recent news and unique perspectives into the Florida policy issues that matter most to you. At Becker, we believe that our strengths truly lie in our differences. Our local, state, and federal lobbying teams have deep and longstanding relationships across the political spectrum, allowing us to better champion the interests of […]
Read MoreKathleen Berkey Is Zonta Club of Bonita Springs-Estero’s 2020 Woman of the Year
Ft. Myers, Florida – February 17, 2020 – The Zonta Club of Bonita Springs-Estero is hosting its annual Woman of the Year fundraising dinner, Tuesday, April 22, at Pelican’s Nest Golf Club in Bonita Springs. Each year the Club honors a woman who exemplifies Zona’s mission which is dedicated to improving the circumstances of women […]
Read MoreDefending Sea Turtle Lighting Code Enforcement Actions
Have you or your community association been faced with code enforcement violations related to sea turtle lighting? Even the best intentioned can be faced with such an issue in a coastal community. Kathleen O. Berkey, B.C.S., AICP, a Becker land use and community association attorney and certified land planner who is a Board Certified Specialist […]
Read MoreShedding Light on Sea Turtle Lighting
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and coastal local governments regulate what lighting is permitted to avoid and minimize the impacts to sea turtles, but why is artificial coastal lighting a problem? In the southeastern United States, sea turtle hatchlings begin to hatch throughout the months of June through October, most often at […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – November 2019
As we prepare for the holidays and other year-end festivities, associations are also beginning to look ahead to the needs and demands of the coming year. This month’s edition explores some of the issues that associations may encounter from time to time and discusses best practices for putting your community’s best foot forward. If your […]
Read MoreEpisode 11: Adjacent Development Planned Next to Community – “Can They Do That?”
There’s a developer that wants to build a brand new neighborhood right next to ours, but we’re worried it’s going to be disruptive. Can we oppose the development? Find out the answer in this month’s episode! When it comes to association rules and bylaws, there seem to be more questions than answers. Becker’s video series, […]
Read MoreWhy Community Associations Should Check Their Zoning and Entitlement History
Zoning laws are enacted by villages, towns, cities, or counties to control the types of uses and the parking ratio, intensity, density, and dimensions of those uses. This is for the purpose of preserving property values, managing growth, preserving the character of a community, facilitating the adequate provision of transportation, and promoting public health and […]
Read MoreKathleen O. Berkey Newly Minted as Florida Bar Board Certified in City, County, and Local Government Law
Ft. Myers, FL – We are pleased to announce that Kathleen O. Berkey is now Florida Bar Board Certified in City, County, and Local Government Law. Board certification demands rigorous testing and is in recognition of having the highest standards of skill, specialty knowledge, proficiency, professionalism, and ethics in a particular area of the law. […]
Read MoreKathleen Berkey Honored as a Finalist for the 2019 APEX Awards
Shareholder Kathleen O. Berkey was honored as a finalist for the 2019 APEX Awards on Wednesday at the Crowne Plaza Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops. The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee presents the award to Lee County residents who excel in professional achievement, community service/philanthropy, mentoring and leadership. The […]
Read MoreKeep Lee County Beautiful Great America Cleanup Day
April 13, 2019 was proclaimed “Keep Lee County Beautiful Great America Cleanup Day” at the Lee County Board of County Commissioners’ meeting. Becker’s own Katie Berkey, Esq., AICP (second from the right) has been proud to serve on Keep Lee County Beautiful’s Board of Directors since 2016. The mission of Keep Lee County Beautiful, a […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – March 2019
Happy spring! As we move into the new season, there’s no better time to start thinking about spring cleaning for your association! Whether your association board has new members or your building is in need of maintenance, now is the time to make sure you’re on the right track for success. When strangers come together […]
Read More“Raffles and Games of Chance: A Gamble for Community Associations,” FLCAJ
Historically, gambling was only illegal when it became a public nuisance. See Lee v. City of Miami, 121 Fla. 93, 163 So. 486 (1935). Today, although gambling is not generally prohibited, almost all forms of gambling are either prohibited by Florida law or heavily restricted. Given the potential for condominiums, co-ops, and homeowners associations or […]
Read MoreBecker Expands Florida Land Use Practice
We now have a West Coast compliment to Jeremy Shir’s established East Coast planning, zoning and entitlements practice. Kathleen O. Berkey has recently joined our Community Association and Land Use and Zoning practices as a shareholder attorney and certified land planner (AICP) in Fort Myers. Kathleen joined us on September 21st. Her practice focuses on […]
Read MoreLaw360 Highlights New Partner Trio in Florida Offices
In an October 4th article titled “Becker & Poliakoff Lands Partner Trio In Fla. Offices,” Law360 took note of Becker’s continued, fast-paced growth in key practice areas including real estate, community associations, development, zoning and land use, as well as business litigation. The story reported that David K. Blattner, […]
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