by George Broeckx and Linda
Lawrence
On June 30, 2003, approximately 60 members of the Honest Weight Food
Coop made history in the back parking lot of the Coop by almost
unanimously voting in favor of the revised bylaws. After several years of
amendments and revisions that never passed, the Bylaws committee decided
to rewrite the entire bylaws so that they were updated and fit with what
and where the Coop is today, and hopefully to provide flexibility to adapt
to what and where the Coop goes in the future. The Bylaws committee had
presented the rewrite a couple of years ago and the Board, at that time,
put it on hold. The current Board decided to act on the revised bylaws by
getting them to the membership for discussion, to legal counsel for
review, and to a vote. With the persistence, time, effort and energy of
many, the members voted on a set of bylaws that reflects the Coop’s
philosophy and the values it was founded upon, which provide for members’
involvement and oversight over the Coop’s mission, values and direction.
Copies of the new bylaws may be obtained at the information counter at the
Coop.
This is a great time at the Coop for several reasons. First, the bylaws
should be easier to use and work from. Second, we have a collective
management team successfully handling the management of the store and
striving to create a better working and shopping environment for all.
Third, we have a pro-active Board working to develop a strategic business
plan where all members (that includes working members, shareholders,
staff, management and the Board) have the opportunity to be significantly
involved in the Coop’s direction. Between member focus groups and upcoming
retreats, the strategic plan is well underway. Finally, now more than ever
there are many opportunities for members to come together and be involved
in the Coop’s future. Whether it’s a committee, working in the store,
becoming a Board member or joining a focus group, your involvement, ideas
and cooperation with others is what makes us a strong, viable community
and store. And, as for fun, keep your ears and eyes open for announcements
that give members opportunities to get together, just because
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