Misguided Good Intentions

I have been on my homeowner association board in two different communities for a total of 6 years. My motivation is to help make the community a better and safe place to live. However, my current thought is that my intentions are totally misguided, making me a target for anger, frustration, screaming and venting by normally-nice-seeming neighbors. Why can't it be a pleasant, positive experience as people work together to maintain their house values and look of their neighborhoods?
I can only think that it will get better....only one year and eight months left in my term. I am wondering, however, is it October yet?