At last night’s monthly Hampton Roads Pride Membership meeting, those in attendance approved a revised set of by-laws that include moving Board of Director elections from November to September, a discussion of the Board election process and proxy voting.
Approving and adopting a revised set of organizational by-laws, put forth at the June membership meeting was the primary focus of last night’s meeting. Among the most significant changes to the by-laws include the following:
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Membership categories were reduced from four to three. Membership categories are now one of three: Individual, Household, and Corporate. The Organizational category was eliminated.
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Election of Board of Directors was changed from November of each year to September.
Moving the election of Board members to September was adopted to allow new Board members more time to adjust to their new roles, giving them more time to plan, solicit sponsorships and work on events throughout the year, culminating with PrideFest in June.
As the elections were moved to September, discussion centered around when potential Board member applications would be due to the Nominating Committee. Initially, a deadline of July 15 was proposed and after discussion between members present and the Board, the Nominating Committee reset the deadline to July 30.
Anyone interested in standing for Board of Director elections on September 10 that want their application considered by the Nominating Committee should review Board member duties and responsibilities and complete an online application HERE before July 30. For those unable to complete an application prior to July 30, Board nominations will also be accepted from the floor at the August 6 membership meeting. A total of six Board of Directors seats are up for reelection, including all executive officers. Committee assignments will be made following the election and the creation of a new policies and procedures manual for the Board.
The Nominating Committee will vet all applications submitted prior to the July 30 deadline and make recommendations for candidates to the membership based on a full review of application, background, experience, current needs on the Board, prior involvement and community engagement.
In addition to the adoption of revised by-laws, the process and handling of proxy votes was brought up by a few members in attendance. Members were told that proxy voting was discussed by the By Laws Committee and a decision was made to keep proxy votes and option to insure all members are given a voice in decision-making. Several members in attendance expressed a desire for more transparency and the Board indicated an interest in examining alternative methods for handling elections in the future.
If you are interested in learning more about how to apply to join the Hampton Roads Pride Board of Directors or otherwise get involved, click on the link below.
