What is my Neighborhood Association? Please tell me it’s not an HOA

By Brent Lucke, NSNA board member

When we hear “Neighborhood Association,” many think of homeowners and restrictive rules, often confusing them with Homeowners Associations (HOAs). While both serve communities, they differ significantly.

Neighborhood Associations began in Lincoln in the 1960s, arising from grassroots efforts to address local concerns. They are open to all residents within defined boundaries, allowing voluntary membership and participation. In contrast, HOAs, common in newer developments, focus on maintaining property values and often impose strict rules on homeowners.

The strength of Neighborhood Associations lies in their adaptability and inclusiveness. They can address a wide range of community issues, support public events, and collaborate with other organizations. Unlike HOAs, membership is voluntary, fostering a sense of community without the burden of mandatory fees or rules.

Renters and Homeowners’ Solidarity in "Neighbor"

Neighborhood Associations often evoke images of homeowners, leading to perceptions of elitism. However, their true strength lies in fostering collaboration between renters and homeowners. The Near South Neighborhood Association faces challenges in engaging renters, but history shows that unity is possible.

Past coalitions, like the City-Wide Tenants Association, demonstrate the power of collaboration. Recent issues, such as the Goodhue Boulevard street tree debate, revealed the potential for renters and homeowners to advocate together.

As a board member of the NSNA, I encourage all residents to connect and engage with one another. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, reach out at renters@nearsouth.org or join our monthly board meetings. Together, we can build a stronger community.

"Neighbor is not a geographic term, but a moral concept."

— Rabbi Joachim Prinz

Benefits of Membership

While membership starts at $10 a year, those who invest as a Pedestal ($50) or Pillar ($100) receive additional benefits. Thank you events, such as a thank you event, held December 15th. Many thanks to the 30 or so neighbors who attended the event, along with the NSNA Board members. It was a wonderful way for our neighbors (both new and old!) to get to know the NSNA Board members, to share ideas about improving the neighborhood, and learning about each other’s homes. 

The NSNA looks forward to hosting this event again. Want to join (or come back to) the NSNA? Or do you know of new neighbors who might want a welcome basket? Please go to Near South Neighborhood Association website for more information.