This letter serves as an open call for Board of Director applications. There are five (5) positions up for election. Prairie Food Owners interested in running for the Board may do so by submitting an application on or before April 5, 2019.

To be a qualified Board member:

• Candidate must be a Prairie Food Owner in good standing for at least 3 months prior to elections on April 30.
• 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 must attend the Candidate Info Session or the Board meeting on April 2. If you are unable to attend either, please send an email to kathy(at)prairiefood(dot)coop and we can arrange a time to meet. Candidates who do not comply will not be considered.

Candidate Info Session

All owners considering running for the Board are encouraged to attend the Candidate Information Session on Monday, March 25 from 7pm - 8:30pm at the Helen Plum Library. RSVP here. Directors will review the role of the Board and expectations for Directors. If you are unable to attend this meeting, please contact us.

Board Expectations

Currently, the Board of Directors meets bi-monthly (1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 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 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 our Community Investment Program, securing facilities, hiring a General Manager, and assuring that the purpose and mission of Prairie Food Co-op are properly carried out. This is very rewarding work and will give you the opportunity to influence policies determining Prairie Food’s direction and making our store a reality. Board members will attest, it is 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 early April. All Owners in good standing will be given the opportunity to vote for Board candidates. Voting will be conducted securely online from April 16 - April 30. Paper ballots will be available at the Annual Owners Meeting on April 30, or by request. Ballots will be emailed to Owners and election results will be announced after the Annual Owners Meeting on Tuesday, April 30.