Hello Co-op Owners,

The Co-op Board of Directors, staff and Co-op owners met in person at the Arcata Co-op and over Zoom July 9.

Filling Employee Seats Mid-Term
We had two sections in our Bylaws which we were concerned about were in conflict. Our General Manger spoke with our attorney and was assured there is no conflict. The process for a vacated seat mid-term applies to both general and employee seats. No need to change the language.

Bylaw Update – Patronage
The board voted on removing section 9.03(e) and 9.03(f) from the bylaws. Removing these sections does not adversely affect the rights or obligations of members and thus does not need an owner vote. This was all reviewed with our attorney who agrees.

The following sections of Bylaws 9.03 will be removed:

• Bylaws Section 9.03 Annual Allocations and Distributions of Surplus.
• (f) If the cash payment to a member for such member’s dividends and patronage refunds together would total less than ten dollars ($10.00), the Board of Directors may distribute such dividends and patronage refunds to the member wholly in shares.
• (e): To Members with the status of “Fair Share,” the Board may uniformly distribute up to 100% of such members’ patronage refunds and dividends in cash.

CCMA Conference Report
Board attendees reported that the CCMA conference provided valuable networking, educational sessions, and practical ideas related to governance, merchandising, staff communication, and cooperative best practices.

General Manager Report
Our General Manager reported that we have equipment currently being installed for new deli programs that will provide hot sandwiches, burritos and burrito bowls in both stores. We’ll eventually have a grand opening.

He also reported that our “New Owner Drive” last month brought in 200 new owners. There was also a friendly competition between stores and Arcata won for the first time this year.

Lastly, he reported that they’re working on an employee appreciation system. This will help to enforce work policies while also appreciating staff.

Next Board Meeting: Thursday, August 13 at 6pm

Info about upcoming Board of Directors’ meetings and board committees along with their dates, times, locations, agendas, and minutes can be found at northcoast.coop/board. Or get on an email list to receive agendas and Board packets a week in advance of meetings by emailing emilywalter@northcoast.coop.

Contact the Board: board@northcoast.coop.