Northridge Community Council |
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MINUTES, (Numbers match agenda)
1. Meeting called to order by Dorothy Boberg with introductions of 16 members present.
2. The outlines of several potential boundaries are on the 12th Council District map presented. Attorney, John Weitkamp suggested that a designation of boundaries based on streets would be better than zip codes or city plan map boundaries as these boundaries change from time to time. Acting chairperson, Dorothy Boberg asked Don Larson to review recommendations that the outline of Northridge zip codes be transformed into lines based on streets with the possibility of Winnetka being the western boundary. Since the proposed bylaws include zip codes as boundaries, an amendment would be required for change.
5. Attorney, John Weitkamp (JW) presented bylaws revised 3-17-2001 (attached) based on bylaws previously considered and referred to him by the steering committee. He noted that the proposed new bylaws require two additional parts:
A. How diversity of stakeholders on the board is to be accomplished. (See attached "Representative Description" from Encino Neighborhood Council for suggestions of how this may be done). It was also suggested by the chairperson that this method may be combined with representation from different precincts.
B. Mechanism for dispute resolution.
Discussion of bylaws included the following suggestions or explanations.
Bylaws presented may be changed to meet our needs. Some elements should be in a Policy Manuel in addition to having bylaws. (JW)
The one vote per person provision shall not allow one person to vote more than once as a representative of different stakeholders. (JW)
A three year term may be better than a two year term for the board. We could then elect 1/3 of the board each year.
Meetings may be more often than quarterly.
These bylaws of an unincorporated association may be changed in the future to an IRS Sec. 501c3 or 501c4,5,or 6 if we wish to incorporate later. (JW)
It was suggested that we ask the City Attorney to explain the Brown Act at a future meeting. (JW)
A "Civic League" such as this requires a Board of Directors under law. (JW)
The Board of Directors may employ staff when the Council is funded by the City. (JW)
Although committee members are chosen by the chairman, they must be members of the council. (JW)
The books of the Council are reviewed not audited because audits require meeting strict legal requirements which are not necessary for a council. (JW)
It was moved, seconded and carried that these interim bylaws be accepted. It is understood that the required additions will be made before final adoption but these bylaws will serve in the interim.
The next meeting on Saturday, April 21, 2 PM at Devonshire House will be the last time to sign up as members of the Council to be eligible to vote in the election of directors on May 22. (JW)
It was moved, seconded and passed that the bylaws be amended to show that the May 22, 2001 meeting will be on the third Tuesday of the month and all following meetings will be on the third Wednesday of the month.
Mr Weitkamp added that we need, in addition to bylaws, a mission statement, a financial plan, and a code of ethics which includes that the laws shall be obeyed, there shall be high standards of conduct and we shall abide by the Brown Act and the Political Practices Act. (JW)
The idea was expressed by a member that the financial reporting requirements of the Brown Act are too restrictive to encourage participation on the Board.
The Chairperson appointed Don Larson and Marilyn Stout to present a proposed mission statement, and code of ethics (after consultations) at the next meeting.
3. The Chairperson asked for nominations for acting officers for the Council to function until the finalization of organization. A motion was made, seconded and passed that the Chairperson appoint acting officers.
Appointed:
President: Brad Smith Vice President: Dorothy Boberg Secretary: Pat LoPresti Treasurer: Andy Anderson Precinct Organizing Chairperson: Don Larson.
4. The speaker for the May 22 meeting is to be Megan Jones and to be asked to be on a panel: Councilperson Joel Wachs, someone from the 8th District Empowerment Council (by Andy Anderson) and from Simi Valley, a council organizer.
6. Financial Plan to be presented at the next meeting by Andy Anderson (after consultations). Mr. Weitkamp said the plan should include an accounting system, the officers who will sign the checks, etc.
7. Notice and questionnaire for May 22 Meeting presented by Pat LoPresti. Funds are needed for printing.
8. Ethic Statement suggested by Marilyn Stout. No action taken.
Moved, seconded and passed that meeting be adjourned. Meeting Adjourned. Refreshments served.