An HOAs primary goal is to pay for repair and upkeep of common property and it’s usually set up by the builder in agreement with the city for infrastructure benefits. Most HOAs are underfunded so when the private roads become defunct they try to turn over the roads to the city. The city will usually try to negotiate a park out of them or set up an easement if there is a developable property near by. It’s great for the few dozen people who live in the suburbs but a huge waste of tax money.