HOA Homefront: Can HOA boards ramp up assessments without a vote?

Q: This year our HOA dues increased 20 percent. The reason given was plumbing issues due to sewage backups.  When I asked about just having a special assessment to cover the plumbing issues, I was told a special assessment would require a vote by association members. What can homeowners do to prevent this from continuing? — J.L, Newport Beach
A: Most CC&R’s or bylaws limit increases in regular assessments by boards to no more than 20 percent per year. Per Civil Cod