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News at a Glanceby Nancy Ellegate The HWFC Board of Directors met on Wednesday April 24. This was the first regular Board meeting after the Board elections. Resignations General Manager Edward Jenner presented a letter of resignation. He will work until June 15. His letter noted that his ideals and business principles are different from that of the new Board. Board member Donald Miller resigned from the Board, effective immediately. His letter of resignation noted that his philosophy of how a Coop should be run is at odds with the present direction of the Board and membership. Board president Jeff Lewis also resigned from the Board, effective immediately. Plans for General Manager Leaving The Board and general manager discussed items pertaining to his departure. The general manager will inform the other staff. The biggest priority for action before he leaves is needed improvements to the electrical system. The estimated cost is about $15,000. The Board gave approval to have the system upgraded. The general manager will manage as usual until June 15; the assistant general manager feels comfortable about acting as interim manager as of June 15. A Board member asked about adequate staff coverage in the busy 3-4 pm time period, now that the store is opening earlier in the morning. The general manager reported that early morning hours have not compromised later coverage. A search committee for a new general manager will be formed. General Manager's Report The general manager reported that beginning on April 27, the Coop would open at 7 am on Saturdays. The new water machine would be arriving shortly, increasing capacity from 100 to 300 gallons. Member labor has been used to paint various areas of the store. The produce department had the most extensive paint job, and is now lavender. New Board Positions The Board elected the following officers:
- President - Louise Roback The Board liaisons to Coop committees will be as follows: Finance, Future Planning - Louise Roback; Personnel - Marjorie Knechtel; Communications - Linda Lawrence; Nutrition - Christian Schider; Membership - Virginia McEwen; Special Events - Marjorie Knechtel and Christian Schider. Board Schedule The Board has not set its complete schedule for the next year, just the next two meetings (see below). As a rule, the Board will continue to meet on the 4th Wednesday of the month. However, the Board will now begin meetings one hour earlier than before, and will start meetings at 6 pm. The location for Board meetings is still being arranged, but see below for the next meeting. Proposal Format Guidelines for the submission of proposals at Board meetings were presented. After discussion, these were passed. All proposals are to be submitted in writing and contain the following information:
1. A description of the program, process, or
action proposed Need for Additional Board Members The need for new Board members in light of tonight's resignations was discussed at length. It was suggested that the Board think about what is needed to balance the Board. Working as a Board Board members contributed some final thoughts on the working together in the year ahead. Directors recommended that they work cooperatively and respect each other; look at the big picture and keep an eye on finances; seek more member involvement; be optimistic and productive; and have an improved approach to people. Minutes Minutes of all Board meetings are available at the Coop. Minutes of the most recent meeting are posted on the bulletin board. Upcoming Meetings The next Board meeting will be held on June 26, but a meeting place has not yet been determined. It is recommended that anyone planning to attend call the Coop closer to the date for this information. |
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