Key takeaway: The role of the Board is to: 1) identify goals, set priority and plans; 2) set priorities or recommends policies for member approvals; 3 )select, supervise and evaluate management; 4) evaluate outcomes; 6) approve new members; 7) enter into contracts on behalf of the co-op and; 7) report to members at meetings and between them. In achieving this a GOOD Board is: effective in getting results; aware of its legal obligations; has a strategic focus; acts transparently; is accountable; acts fairly and consistently and; is responsive and respectful to members. As a Board member you are expected to discuss issues at meetings but when a decision is made you must support the decision and fellow directors after the meeting.
Key points for consideration by City Park Board:
- Source documents such as the co-op’s by-laws, standing resolutions, occupancy agreements, policies, previous minutes (approved) and relevant legislation should be easily accessible at Board and Member meetings.
- Annual performance review. Board does Property Manager. Property Manager does Managers. Managers do staff as appropriate.
- Committees and sound management. Review committee/project performance cost from time to time – ensure relevance.
- Communication with Members. Use website more, use LINK more regularly and consider developing standards for posting info in glass covered notice boards (colour of paper, font size etc.
- Board meetings. Key items first. Business arising from the previous meeting(s) update (can be included as 1st item of Property Manager’s report). May want to consider a timed agenda particularly for open meetings.
- Develop a Corporate calendar. Board and Member meetings. Deadlines for packages, key contract renewals etc.
- Consider an Arrears By-law. Better define process.
______________________________
Linda Gallant, Director – Education