Policies
The Plainfield Co-op Board of Directors governs using the Policy Governance model. This model of governance was developed by John and Miriam Carver. As stated on the Carver’s Policy Governance website, this model of governance is “designed to empower boards of directors to fulfill their obligation of accountability for the organizations they govern. As a generic system, it is applicable to the governing body of any enterprise. The model enables the board to focus on the larger issues, to delegate with clarity, to control management’s job without meddling, to rigorously evaluate the accomplishment of the organization; to truly lead its organization.”
The International Policy Governance Association also has extensive information about Policy Governance.
Ends
The Policies were created to support the Ends of the Co-op. The Ends are:
The Plainfield Co-op will:
- Distribute healthy, affordable food and other goods
- Actively seek local producers and growers, and support the local and regional economy.
- Sustain the environment through its operations and the products it offers.
- Increase awareness of cooperative principles and of other cooperative businesses.
- Foster awareness about the quality and source of our food.
- Build connections that are essential for a vibrant community.
By-laws
Bylaws are usually thought of as a contract among the members, the board of directors and an organization that addresses governance and financial rights. The Co-op membership has sole power to amend the Bylaws. The Plainfield Co-op’s Bylaws establish rules governing these important areas:
- Membership qualifications and rights
- Obligations and warning for member equity/patronage
- Frequency, timing, quorum, and notice for membership meetings
- Board of director contact information, qualifications, terms, election and termination
- Frequency of and notice for board of directors meetings
- Board officer positions and responsibilities
- Indemnification of the board of directors by the Co-op
- Amendments of Bylaws and Articles of Association
