Meeting of understanding: Interview questions

We ask prospective members to meet with several people in the community as the final step in the membership process. We call this the "meeting of understanding." It's your opportunity to clarify your expectations of community life. We want to be sure you have enough information to determine whether Prairie Hill is a good fit for you. In preparation for the meeting, please have each adult member of your household consider the questions below. You don't need to write out your answers. These are just food for thought and will provide some starting points for conversation. This meeting is meant to be a two-way conversation, so we encourage you to bring your questions for us as well.

What is your interest in community living and in Prairie Hill in particular?
Have you lived in a community setting before?
What community groups or organizations are you involved with?
What are you most looking forward to about living at Prairie Hill?
What are your fears or concerns about community life?
Are you comfortable with the community values we have put forth? The list is posted here.
We are actively recruiting families with children. How do you see children in your life?
Do you have family members or friends who visit for extended periods? Have you thought about how they will interact with the community?
Participation in the work of the community is important—both to keep things going and to give everyone a sense belonging. How do you imagine yourself participating?
What committee would you like to join? See list of committees.
Do you have pets living with you? If so, do you think they will transition well to community life?
Do you intend to live in the community year round? If not, have you thought how this might affect your participatory role?
We try to make decisions by consensus to be respectful and clear about the community’s needs. Have you worked in consensus-based groups?
What are some of the skills, talents, and experiences you will bring to the community?
Do you have any questions about the 3 items that new members are asked to initial on their membership form at the time of becoming a member? The items are pasted below for your reference:

Any cash payments made beyond the $100 application fee and the $900 membership fee will be refunded by Iowa City Cohousing LLC after all homes are constructed and sold, provided there are adequate funds available. ________

I/we understand that all payments made are at risk. If the project is not successfully completed, funds paid into the project may be lost. ________

I/we understand there are no guarantees or warranties as to the project's timing, cost of development or units, design and size of units, availability of financing, or any other contingencies in this project. It is understood that project financing requirements may require changes to this membership agreement.________

Revised December, 2015