Each year, we set aside one Friday night in April to host our annual meeting. We do this to gather members together to elect the co-op’s board of directors, share the cooperative’s plans and to enjoy cooperative fellowship.
For many years, this meeting was the only practical way to conduct the various aspects of the co-op’s business. Now however, technology has allowed us to make the voting part of the annual meeting available to more members.
That’s why this year we are offering members the opportunity to vote for the board of directors through either a mail-in ballot or online prior to the annual meeting. Be on the lookout for more information on how to vote in your April edition of Carolina Country and your email inbox if your email address is on file.
The new technology provides all members with a simple, quick way to have their voice heard in the election of their fellow members to govern their local cooperative. Also, these changes will save money for the cooperative. A savings we will pass on to you, our members.
This year we will still have our traditional gathering, and with the exception of how voting is done, will be much the same as past years’ annual meetings with information booths, entertainment, snacks, giveaways, door prizes and the reason you all come – my wonderful speech. Then in 2020, we will transition to a simple, no frills business meeting with online and mail-in balloting.
Again, we feel these changes will give more of our members the opportunity to participate in their cooperative while also providing a financial savings.
We hope you will enjoy this new way to exercise your membership with your co-op.
Wishing you all a bright and prosperous New Year!