Calling all candidates! Voting for the 2020 Board of Directors Election begins August 28th, and the Nominations Committee is currently accepting applications from Menomonie Market Food Co-op owners who are interested in running. This year, three seats are up for election, and two of our incumbent directors are submitting their candidacy for another term. The common denominator shared by all board members is that they care about our co-op, healthy and local food, our economic model, and our community. The deadline for applications is August 26th, so scroll down to apply online or pick up an application in-store. Interested individuals should also reach out to Mariann, a member of our Nominations Committee, via email at mariann@board.mmfc.coop to ask any questions.

It’s an interesting and exciting time to serve on your co-op’s board. In some ways, COVID-19 has given Menomonie Market an opportunity to show its strength. With obvious issues in the present, we continue to look forward and explore the best ways to serve our owners, local farmers, and our community. The board also continues the strategic conversation with our sister co-op in Eau Claire, Just Local Food, who has shown its strength and resiliency. In the cooperative spirit of “Stronger Together,” collaboration with our closest neighbor has far-reaching and mutual benefits.

IF YOU JOIN, WHAT IS YOUR COMMITMENT?

Attending regular and special meetings fully prepared
Menomonie Market Food Co-op board membership requires a significant time commitment during the 3-year term. Each director is responsible for attending all meetings and for thoroughly preparing for meetings by reading and thoughtfully considering meeting packets. The board does, however, make an effort to accommodate directors’ schedules when setting meeting dates and times. Between meetings, it is sometimes necessary to communicate via email. Directors should be prepared to respond as needed.

Sharing ideas and concerns
Directors are encouraged to take an active part in the work of the board by asking questions and putting ideas forward.

Taking on leadership roles and consistently and actively serving on committees
Directors should be prepared to serve on a committee if called upon and to participate in projects outside of board meetings as needed.

Attending training sessions
Ongoing education is part of board membership. Directors should be willing to read articles, participate in online seminars, and attend the Cooperative Board Leadership 101 Workshop as well as other live workshops as opportunities arise.

Acting in a professional manner
Directors are expected to display integrity, to resist pressures from special interest groups, to be able to work constructively with others, analyze and use good judgment, to be forward-looking, constructive and energetic, and loyal to the interests of the co-op.

Confidentiality
The Board Policy Manual states: All directors will maintain confidentiality as needed to protect the co-op’s interests and financial viability. All issues related to personnel, real estate, market strategy and goals, pending litigation, and details of the co-op’s financial status will be considered sensitive and subject to confidentiality unless or until full disclosure is approved by the board as a whole.

Avoiding conflict of interest
All directors will avoid any conflict of interest with respect to their fiduciary responsibility.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Not only will you receive a monthly stipend of $50 credit at Menomonie Market Food Co-op, you will have the satisfaction of serving a growing organization that serves the community with healthy products and education. You will have a voice in the shaping of the future of the co-op while working with a group of people who share a commitment to a democratic process and a sustainable local economy.

HOW TO APPLY