Why did you join?

I’d just moved in and was interested in learning more about how a building is operated and taken care of. I also liked the idea of being able to contribute to my community.

Did you have to campaign?

Seven of us ran on a slate. I got up at the annual meeting and gave a little speech. I wasn’t kissing babies and shaking hands; I wasn’t debating.

What kinds of decisions do you make?

For the past few years, we’ve had a spate of young families moving in, and their needs or wants may be different from somebody who doesn’t have kids. Should we have more toys so the kids can play? Should we have a whole play area? How do we make that happen while staying within the constraints of our budget?

Has it been a good experience?

When you’re looking to buy an apartment in New York City, you hear all kinds of horror stories about boards, how they’re cloaked in mystery and you don’t know whether they’ll let you into the building. I’ve found it to be a very rewarding experience.

What advice do you have for others?

You have to be prepared to do research, get quotes from vendors, run numbers and talk to people. Nothing is going to change unless you pick up the ball and move it.