Yes I agree with both statements. First thing that needs to be done is locate and identify board members. Second, call a meeting to address these concerns. The main problem, of course, is going to be money. The play area is a big issue. We got screwed when they put that cheap one up with the addition. To replace our current monstrousity with one of the nicer-commercial play sets is going to cost $$BIG$$ money. Whether or not the neighborhood would be willing or able to afford such a commitment is a big question mark, but one thing for sure is that if we don't get all these DEAD BEATS (that fail to pay there dues each year) CURRENT then we are all going be screwed. Just annual lawn care maintenance is approximately 50-75k.
I proposed last year, when we had a newsletter, to publish all the names of those that were delinquent. Not only did I not hear anything regarding my suggestion, the newsletter is now defunct.
One thing I have been noticing, primarily around my street, is the color that some people are staining their fences. OMG!!! I usually mind my own business, but this effects my resale value of my home when others have very poor taste and no NOTHING about curb appearance for their homes. Some of the stain colors these people are picking are horrible and don't match their houses or anyone elses for that matter. One is a purplish color, one a barn reddish color.....hideous. I realize this is my opinion and really don't like dictating to others, but sometimes it is necessary. I think approved stain colors should be included in our by-laws.