You are sitting comfortably when out of the blue, the floor starts to shake and pictures fall from the wall. One of two things is happening: you are at my house for Thanksgiving and I've just ambled toward a third plate or you are experiencing an earthquake. In the last week alone, Oregon has experienced more than 30 small earthquakes. Washington has had 33. A recent NBA summer league basketball game had to be evacuated when a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Southern California. Most experts believe the "big one" in the Northwest is a question of when, not if. read more

In Washington, there were several bills impacting collection of association assessments passed in the recent legislative session and signed by the governor that become effective July 28, 2019. read more

When the government needs land to widen a highway, install a power line, extend light rail or build a runway, it just takes it from the surrounding landowners. Is this fair, or legal? I don't know about fair, but it is legal. read more

Arguably the most challenging task a community association board of directors can undertake is drafting rules and regulations for their community. Good intentions, but bad drafting, can lead to unanticipated results and make enforcement difficult or impossible. read more

Please join us in welcoming Lucille Jo Vincent (I call her "Lulu") to the Barker Martin team (sorta) as of April 4. Collin is getting plenty of parenting advice from the rest of us (good and bad). Feel free to add your two cents! read more