What must happen for an amendment to be legally effective?

For an amendment to be legally effective, it typically must be recorded with the appropriate authority, such as the Clerk of the court, depending on the governing state laws and local regulations. This recording serves as a public notice of the changes that have been made, ensuring that they are enforceable and recognized legally. By documenting amendments in this manner, it provides clarity and helps to protect the interests of all parties involved by providing a formal record that can be referred to in the future.

The other options might represent common practices or requirements in particular situations, but they do not compare to the necessity of official recording to establish legal effectiveness. For example, while publication in a local newspaper can serve to notify residents or the public, it does not create a binding legal effect in the same way that formal recording does. Having signatures from homeowners may be important for demonstrating support or agreement, but it alone does not ensure that the amendment is recognized as legally binding without subsequent recording. Presenting an amendment at an annual meeting can help to inform members or facilitate discussion, yet it still lacks the legal weight that comes with official recording. Hence, the requirement to record with the Clerk of the court solidifies the legitimacy and enforceability of an amendment.