I agree with the others -- the decisions the board makes are the board's. As we say in our board meetings, it's fine to disagree among ourselves, but once a decision is made, everyone on board defends and upholds it.

Let me add that although the managing agent can help answer questions about unpopular moves (such as raising the maintenance fee), any board member must be prepared to answer those questions as well. If he or she can't, you, as board president, should ask them to refer the questioner to you.

Making unpopular decisions is never easy. When I'm asked, I explain why we need to raise money (so we don't have to borrow money to pay operating bills), and that we, the board, pay the maintenance fee just like everyone else. You can also ask the complainer for suggestions on how to save money so the next increase will be less -- that is, make the complainer responsible for finding a solution.