In this episode, we sit down with strata lawyer Polina Furtula to unpack one of the most powerful, and most abused tools in strata governance: the proxy. We examine how proxies are supposed to protect owner participation, and how they can just as easily be weaponized to seize control of councils, block critical repairs, or overturn years of progress.
Polina walks through real-world examples, including large buildings thrown into chaos by organized proxy campaigns. The conversation finishes with practical advice for councils and owners on how to spot proxy manipulation and protect the integrity of their building’s decision-making.
About the Guest
Polina Furtula
Polina H. Furtula is a senior lawyer advising strata corporations throughout British Columbia. She represents clients at all levels of British Columbia courts, from the Court of Appeal to the CRT. Polina also instructs the strata management re-licensing courses for the BCFSA.
Polina provides practical and cost-effective advice not only to strata corporations, but also property managers including regulatory guidance under the Real Estate Services Act and related legislation. If your strata corporation is experiencing governance issues, getting a lawyer involved prior to issuing a general meeting notice is advisable. With prudent planning, councils can minimize proxy issues and disruptive governance conflicts.
Get the Guides:
3 Keys to Decision Making for Strata CouncilsMaintenance Planner Checklist
8 Steps for Going out to Bid
About the Hosts:
Brent Anderson
Business Development Director, FirstService Residential British Columbia
As Business Development Director, Brent is responsible for the continued growth and strategy of FirstService Residential’s Market throughout British Columbia.
Brent’s professional career in sales began selling souvenirs at Canucks games back at the PNE Coliseum. For the past 15 years, has been closely working with strata managers as a salesperson for various trades, including painting, high-rise window cleaning, and HVAC services.
The sales world is full of cookie-cutter reps who lead with their ego and put their needs ahead of the customers. Not Brent; he is passionate about the needs and goals of his clients and specializes in bringing them peace of mind.
Brent lives in South Surrey with his wife and their Jack Russell Terrier. He is an avid hiker and budding kayak enthusiast.
James Milne
Business Development Director, FirstService Residential British Columbia
As Business Development Director, James is responsible for the continued growth and strategy of FirstService Residential’s Market throughout British Columbia.
James takes a consultative approach to his role, recognizing that having the right fit between a community and its management is crucial to long-term success. Prior to joining FirstService, James worked in luxury hotel management and business-to-business sales.
James has more than 20 years of experience in customer-facing roles and a true passion for customer service. He is a licensed strata manager and has a degree in Business Management.
When not working, James is also an avid mountain biker and serves as the President of one of BC’s largest non-profit mountain bike clubs.
About Stratagize Podcast
Over 1.5 million people live in strata housing in the Province of British Columbia.
Let's face it, you'd rather watch reruns of the nightly news than read the Strata Property Act (And we can't blame you) Still, most people are at a loss when it comes to understanding such an important framework for how many of us live our lives in proximity with one another.
🎙 Stratagize with Brent Anderson & James Milne features conversations with industry leaders and experts who share their knowledge to demystify an industry that impacts the lives of more than 1 out of 3 British Columbians.
Whether you are a council member, owner, investor, or renter, if you're looking for content that will bring value to your strata and help you get to the next level… THIS is it!
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