This letter serves as an open call for Board of Director applications. There are up to seven (7) positions up for election. Prairie Food Owners interested in running for the Board may do so by submitting an application on or before April 4, 2016.

To be a qualified Board member:

• Candidate must be a Prairie Food Owner in good standing for at least 3 months.
• Candidate must not have any conflict of interest with Prairie Food Co-op.
• Elected Board members serve a term of one to three years (candidates with the most votes get the longest terms). Board members are limited to three consecutive terms.

Candidate Info Session

All owners considering running for the Board are encouraged to attend a Candidate Info Session scheduled for Thursday, March 24 at 7 PM at Elmhurst Public Library. Board members will review the role of the Board and expectations for directors. If you are unable to attend this session, please contact us.

Board Expectations

Currently, the Board of Directors meets bi-monthly (1st and 2nd Tuesdays at 7:00-9:00 pm). There is an expectation that Board members will reasonably attend all meetings. The Board uses shared online management tools and Directors must therefore have access to the internet and e-mail. In addition to bi-monthly Board meetings. Directors are also expected to be present at Owner meetings and some outreach events. The Board of Directors’ duties include, but are not limited to, overseeing the operations and finances of Prairie Food Co-op, establishing policies to govern operational decisions, preparing for an Owner Loan campaign, and assuring that the purpose and mission of Prairie Food Co-op are properly carried out. As Board members can attest, this is very rewarding and will give you the opportunity to influence policies that will determine Prairie Food’s direction and make our store a reality. Board members will tell you it’s really exciting to take such an active role in the process of starting a co-op in our community. 

Election Process

Candidate profiles will be posted online in mid-April. All Owners in good standing will be given the opportunity to vote for Board candidates. Voting will be conducted securely online from April 25 - May 4. Paper ballots will be available at the Annual Owners Meeting on May 4, or by request. Ballots will be emailed to Owners and election results will be announced after the Annual Owners Meeting on Wednesday, May 4.