As Japan's tower mansions age, there is a growing concern about the sufficiency of reserve funds for future repairs. The management of Park Tower Harumi, a 48-story building overlooking Tokyo Bay, recognizes that the discussions among residents regarding potential increases in fees could be lengthy, making proactive measures essential. Under a 30-year repair plan initially set for the building, management is looking to extend this to a 60-year plan to account for larger, unforeseen repairs over time.

The current method of collecting reserve funds, known as the 'staggered increase method,' charges each resident 120 yen per square meter and reviews the rates every few years. This system, favorable for new homeowners due to its lower initial burden, has become problematic as regular increases require consensus from residents, leading to fears of insufficient funds if agreements cannot be reached. As the management committee's former chairman, Yuh Hirakasa, points out, it is crucial to address any potential rate increase early to avoid funding shortages in the future.

Moreover, the challenge of creating a cohesive community within these tower mansions is further complicating the situation. With varied opinions on living arrangements and future planning, fostering a sense of community among residents is vital to streamline discussions and agreements regarding necessary budget changes. The government has recommended a more equitable system for collecting fees, yet implementing such a strategy requires intricate negotiations and a shared vision among residents to ensure the long-term sustainability of these aging buildings.