AZ SB1222

Amends sections 33-1242 and 33-1803 of Arizona Revised Statutes to require condominium and planned community associations with 100 or more units/members to elect a community ombudsman position.

Ombudsman serves as impartial hearing officer for disputes involving fines and related costs and fees between the board of directors and unit owners/members, with decisions final unless appealed to court as trial de novo.

Ombudsman must be a resident unit owner/member in good standing, cannot have served on the board for at least 2 years prior, serves unpaid 2-year terms limited to 2 consecutive terms, and is subject to recall by petition of 10 percent of owners/members.

Requires associations to notify all owners/members of the ombudsman position by September 1, 2012, with special election held by October 1, 2012; ombudsman must complete training in association law, negotiation, and dispute resolution before conducting hearings.

Establishes procedures for unit owners/members to respond to violation notices within 10 business days by certified mail, requiring associations to provide written explanation within 10 business days regarding alleged violations.