Membership Minutes - October 26, 1995

Copies of the proposed revision of the Bylaws were distributed to those attending the meeting.

Laurie opened the meeting with an explanation of the proposed changes in the LAUNC-CH Bylaws, and the reasons for proposing to create a separate office of Treasurer in addition to the Vice-President/President-Elect. She explained that some members have expressed willingness to serve as Treasurer, but then may not be interested in serving as President, and vice-versa. It was also noted that the nature of the LAUNC-CH membership seems to be changing, and people are leaving for other positions more frequently.

There was a great deal of discussion about the necessity of splitting the Treasurer/Vice-President/
President-Elect position into two positions as proposed. There was also discussion about what experience and responsibilities these two positions should have.

Laurie noted that the LAUNC-CH Bylaws are "elegantly spare," which gives the organization a great deal of flexibility to utilize the diverse talent of the members. She urged that any changes to the Bylaws allow flexibility.

It was noted that the LAUNC-CH President, though not required in the Bylaws, has historically served on the Conference Committee. It was suggested that it may be better to have the Vice-President/President-Elect serve on the Conference Committee and act as a liaison between the Committee and both the Treasurer and the President.

The Bylaws state that the Nominating Committee shall submit one name for each office, but this has proven to be too restrictive when there are two candidates interested in an office. It is proposed that the charge of the Committee be rewritten to nominating at least one name for each position. This would give more flexibility in future elections. There was discussion about the wording of this proposed change.

Laurie has resigned her position with the Health Sciences Library, and according to the Bylaws Brenda will serve as acting President. Laurie explained that Linda, Laurie, and Brenda had agreed that it may make the transition of officers easier if Linda, the current Past-President, act as President in November and December. Brenda would assume this position in January. This would give time to appoint a Treasurer and train the person. This arrangement conflicts with the Bylaws which say the Treasurer/Vice-President/President-Elect will become President if the President is unable to complete his/her term. Laurie explained that the Board had planned to present an exception to the Bylaws at this meeting which would allow Linda to be acting President for November and December. Since there was not a quorum present it was not possible to take a vote on the exception. Someone noted that this is slow time for the organization as far as the Treasurer is concerned. It was mentioned that Linda will be at the meetings, as Past-President, to advise Brenda if she has any problems.

Linda agreed to incorporate the points made in the meeting into the proposed revision of the Bylaws that will be sent to the membership for a vote.

On the ballot for changes in the Bylaws there will be three issues:

1. Separating the Treasurer/Vice-President/President-Elect into two positions of Treasurer and Vice-President/President-Elect.
2. The duties of these two positions.
3. Changing the charge of the Nominating Committee from submitting one name for each position, to at least one name.

Recorded by Sandra Dyer

Last updated: April 1996