Never fully follow law or covenants

We’ve had decades of experience with several HOA’s. In every instance, the boards and their accountants and lawyers violated the law and the precise terms of the declarations and covenants. They felt that their priorities could take precedence and they usually got away with it in a heavy handed fashion by limiting the homeowner’s ability to speak at meetings, contact other property owners. The fact that they could engage lawyers at the homeowners expense encouraged illegal and oppressive behavior. HOA directors should be personally liable for any overreaching actions.