Flock Security Camara Project

Dear  Neighbors,

Thank you for taking the time to share your concerns. The Board understands that any change involving community security can raise important questions, and we appreciate the opportunity to provide clarity and correct a few misunderstandings.

First and foremost, the installation of the Flock safety cameras was undertaken solely to enhance the security of our shared community spaces—not to monitor individual residents. The cameras would be positioned only at common‑area entry and exit points, which are not considered private spaces under state law or our governing documents. No footage is used for tracking resident behavior, and no individual within the community has unrestricted access to the system.

Regarding Privacy and System Administration

We want to assure you that:

• The system is administered through a secure, credential‑controlled platform.
• Only authorized HOA representatives may access footage, and only for legitimate safety‑related reasons.
• No third‑party “unknown administrator” has access to resident information or video data.

The Board would never implement a system that compromises resident privacy or exposes the community to unnecessary risk.

Clarification Regarding Law Enforcement

It is important to be clear: the HOA’s camera system is not linked to, integrated with, or automatically shared with local law enforcement. No agency has direct access to the system, and no data is transmitted to outside entities. If law enforcement ever requests footage related to a specific incident, the Board would evaluate that request in accordance with applicable law, just as it would with any other HOA record. There is no live connection, no automatic reporting, and no external monitoring.

Regarding Costs, Bids, and Financial Authority

Your request for cost information is reasonable, and the Board is has posted links with summary of:

• Hardware and installation costs, Subscription or service fees, Contract terms
• Vendor proposals reviewed

It is important to clarify that security infrastructure for common areas does fall within the Board’s authority to maintain, protect, and improve shared property, just as lighting, signage, and access control systems do. The Board is empowered to make these decisions without a community vote when they fall within the operating budget and serve the safety and welfare of the neighborhood.

Regarding Budget Impact and Dues

We understand concerns about dues increases. At this time:

• The camera system has been incorporated into the existing operating budget.
• No special assessment has been issued.
• No dues increase has been approved or proposed in connection with this project.

Annual dues adjustments—whether increases or decreases—are based on the full scope of operating needs, not on any single line item. Any future changes will be communicated transparently and in accordance with the NC Planned Community Act and our bylaws.

Regarding Community Discussion

We want to address your concern about social media moderation. The HOA does not use Facebook as an official communication channel, and administrators of that group are volunteers who manage the page independently. Their moderation decisions are not directed by the Board.

All official HOA communication occurs through email, mailed notices, and open meetings, where every resident is welcome to ask questions and express concerns.

Moving Forward

Your feedback is valuable, and we encourage continued dialogue. The Board’s goal is to strengthen community safety while being responsible stewards of HOA resources. We are committed to transparency and will continue to provide updates as we finalize documentation related to this project.

Please feel free to reach out directly if you would like to discuss this further.

Sincerely, Cross Creek HOA Board of Directors