Why Not Associate? A Proposed Logic Evaluation Model of Capacity Building Partnerships and Initiatives for Homeowners Associations in Gated Communities

Abstract

The article presents theories relating to homeowners association’s capacity building initiatives in the context of gated communities, namely segregation theory and association theory. These two theories were analyzed and criticized for the clarification and crystallization on which theories could be used as appropriate theoretical bases in the conceptualization of the proposed logic evaluation model. The segregation theories considered homeowners associations as residential private governments which have the particular tendency to isolate, insulate and alienate itself because of its spatial, physical and institutional structure and arrangements. The association theories on the other hand regarded homeowners association as an enabling organization capable of transcending these spatial, physical and institutional limitations to forge partnership and alliances with other capacity partners and institutions. A discussion hurling a question to the end of Evan McKenzie’s concept of privatopia was also included as an added dimension to its theoretical debate. In the end, a logic evaluation model for homeowners associations capacity building partnership and initiatives was conceived to become the focal point and most important contribution of the paper.