Conducting a productive board of directors meeting in a condominium where there are hostile owners requires a blend of firm leadership, clear rules, empathy, and preparation. Here's a step-by-step.

Agenda: Circulate a detailed agenda at least a few days in advance. Include estimated times and stick to it.
Documents: Share supporting documents (financials, previous minutes, proposals) beforehand to limit off-topic discussion.
Know Your Bylaws: Be ready to quote or reference bylaws or state condo laws to avoid getting derailed by emotion or misinformation.

At the beginning of the meeting, calmly establish expectations:

You can say: “To ensure a productive meeting, we’re going to follow the agenda, hear everyone respectfully, and stick to time limits.”

Owner Forum: Allow a short owner comment period (e.g., 15-20 minutes) before or after the board meeting.
Limit Cross-Talk: Only board members should speak during the official meeting unless invited.
Use a Moderator or Chair: Have the president or another neutral board member manage the discussion firmly and fairly.

Stick to agenda items.
Defer emotionally charged or complex issues to committees if they can’t be resolved constructively during the meeting.
Use motions and votes to move discussion forward if things stall or devolve.

Listen respectfully, but avoid getting dragged into debates.
If someone is hostile or disruptive, remind them of the ground rules and redirect.

Example: “We appreciate your concern. Let’s note that for further review and keep moving through the agenda.”

If a meeting gets too hostile or unsafe:

Pause or adjourn the meeting under your bylaws.
Reconvene with a stronger structure or, if necessary, with professional mediation or legal guidance.

Consider hiring a professional property manager or parliamentarian to run or mediate meetings, especially if tensions are ongoing.

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