December 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

December 5, 2024, Board Meeting Recap

Winter is here! Happy Holidays and have a great New Year!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their December Board meeting on Tuesday December 3 at the 1912 Center from 6 – 8 p.m. Present were eight of our nine Board members, our

General Manager and Co-op staff, our meeting facilitator, and one Co-op owner.

The General Manager presented her list of policy monitoring reports for 2024 for the Board to

review as part of the annual GM evaluation procedure. The table provided information on each policy monitoring report including timeliness, reasonable interpretation, adequate data for review, compliance status, and the Board’s vote. The monitoring table was in great shape and was accepted by the Board. Additional and interesting details from the December meeting can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board reviewed its C9 Policy covering Board member nomination and election processes for the past 12 months. The policy directs the Board to ensure continued effective leadership by recruiting high-quality candidates. The process involves maintaining a committee charged with overseeing recruitment, candidate eligibility, annual election process, and appointments if a Board vacancy occurs. All policy elements were found to be in compliance; however, a candidate orientation was not held for the previous election because both candidates were current Board members. Following the vote, the Board updated the policy by replacing the committee name listed on the policy with a more general reference to the committee overseeing the nomination, election, and appointment processes, and to change the committee’s role from conducting a candidate orientation to conducting candidate interviews. The changes were accepted by the Board.

In other business, the Board reflected on this year’s fall retreat topics and discussed how to keep momentum going on strategic planning and Board involvement. The Board also discussed the effectiveness of our Policy Governance evaluating process.

For our Study and Engagement Series, Staci Sproull and Nancy Tribble gave a wonderful and inspiring presentation about the Christmas for Kids program in Moscow that provides gifts for children at Christmas time who otherwise would go without because of hard times experienced by their families. Christmas for Kids is 100% volunteer and gives gifts to all children based on need and not religious affiliation. The program is supported by contributions from individuals as well as businesses and corporations. There are several ways to contribute to Christmas for Kids including direct monetary contributions, family sponsorship, the Take a Tag program, and by becoming a volunteer. Furthermore, the Moscow Food Co-op has included Christmas for Kids as a recipient in the Change for Good program where a small donation is made each time you bring in your own reusable grocery bag. More information can be found on their website at https://www.christmasforkidsmoscow.org.

Our Study and Engagement Series helps the Board and staff members become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe issues of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2025, at the Moscow Chamber of Commerce (411 S Main St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/boardmeetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

November 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

November 5, 2024, Board Meeting Recap

November is here and with it, the General Election, upcoming holidays, the beginning of Tasteful Thursdays at the Co-op, and an occasional show flurry!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their November Board meeting on Tuesday the 5th at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were eight of our nine Board members, our General Manager and Co-op staff, our meeting facilitator, and one Co-op owner.

The General Manager presented her monitoring report for the B8 Policy covering Board logistical support. This policy ensures that the Board will have administrative staff assistance to support its governance and communication activities. The policy also ensures the Board will have access to updated policy and bylaws, that Board documents will be adequately archived, and that notices be provided to owners regarding Board actions, activities, events, and meetings. Data for this policy clearly indicated policy compliance and the Board voted unanimously to accept the monitoring report as such. Additional details from the November meeting can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board reviewed its C8 Board Governance Investment policy which requires that the Board’s annual budget be presented to owners at a regularly scheduled Board meeting prior to the first of December of each year. The policy also ensures that there will be adequate resources to carry out Board duties specified in policy and bylaws, and that costs will be prudently incurred. The policy also states there will be reimbursement available, if needed, for Board members to attend Board meetings or retreats. After reviewing and discussing the policy monitoring report, we voted to accept compliance with the policy.

In other business, the Board voted to approve the 2025 Board budget, which covers expenses for the annual meeting and report, consulting fees, insurance, the annual election, retreats, trainings, Board participating owner discounts, and some general expenses. In addition, the Board approved the patronage dividend for 2025 to be at 20%, which is consistent with the patronage dividend paid out in 2024. We also decided to move the monthly Board meeting venue to the Moscow Chamber of Commerce, but still retain the first Tuesday of the month meeting schedule.

For our Study and Engagement Series, Julian Matthews of the Nimiipuu tribe and administrative assistant, Maria Elizarraras, talked about their focus on protecting the environment that has supported their people for thousands of years. In 1855, the Tribe signed a treaty with the U.S. Government whereby the Tribe retained fishing, hunting, and gathering rites in exchange for giving up millions of acres of Tribal land to the Federal Government. The Tribe has been concerned, vocal, and active regarding the loss of salmon and steelhead due to dams on the Snake River and how the loss of these fish has violated the Treaty of 1855 as well as the U.S. Endangered Species Act. The Tribe is also working on issues related to wolf and bison reintroduction and grizzly protection. In addition, the Tribe has been working to engage young tribal members to learn tribal knowledge and history, like canoe building, paddling, and tribal arts, and to provide mentoring programs geared to help young members get into and succeed in colleges and universities. The Nimiipuu are clearly committed to protecting the environment and their culture for future generations, and to empower Tribal members on effecting change. More information can be found on their website at https://www.nimiipuuprotecting.org/home-original.

Our Study and Engagement Series helps Board and staff members become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe issues of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for December 5, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

October 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

October 1, 2024, Board Meeting Recap

Autumn is here and the air is filled with the scent of pumpkin spice, and an occasional humongous dust storm! Fall wheat seeding is under way, but the soil is dry and hopefully rain is headed our way.

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their October Board meeting on Tuesday the 1 st at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were seven of our nine Board members, our General Manager and Co-op staff, our meeting facilitator, and one Co-op owner.

The General Manager presented her monitoring report for the B4 Membership Rights and Responsibilities policy, which covers owner equity, patronage dividends, and transparency of owner rights and responsibilities. Equity payments are the cost of being a Co-op Owner and dividend payments are made once a year when there are adequate funds to pay out to owners. Owner rights and responsibilities are listed in the Co-op bylaws and Board policies, and through meeting announcements in-store and on the Co-op’s website, social media, and all Co-op publications. Data for this policy indicated policy compliance and the Board voted unanimously to accept the monitoring report as such. Additional details from the October meeting can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board reviewed its C7 Board Committee Principles policy covering definitions, responsibilities, and limitations of Board committees. The policy states that the Board will use committees only to help accomplish the Board’s job. Over the past year, the Board has made some adjustments to the policy charters and committee compositions that will help our committees focus on their responsibilities to enhance Board processes. Committees are essential to the Board’s work to help the Co-op better serve its owners. After reviewing and discussing the policy monitoring report, we voted to accept the monitoring report in compliance with the policy.

In other business, the Board voted to continue our subscription to the Cooperative Board Leadership Development Program that provides consulting and educational opportunities essential to our work. In addition, we discussed meeting times for next year and considered Monday evening Board meetings rather than Tuesdays. The discussion will continue in November.

For our Study and Engagement Series, Mark and Vicki Leeper gave a presentation about the Disability Action Center NW (DAC). The DAC’s mission is to help people live independently with self-determination, equal opportunity, and self-respect. Their objective with independent living is that people with disabilities have the same choices and control as non-disabled people to live and to be in control of their lives. The DAC started out as North Idaho CIL and part of the Stepping Stones, Inc. in 1990, and then became DAC as a 501c3 nonprofit in 1993. Since then, DAC has evolved to provide many important services. Mark and Vicki’s presentation illustrated how disabilities can create barriers for people. Their presentation also illustrated the dedication and compassion members of DAC have in bringing independent living to those with disabilities.

More information can be found on the Disability Action Center’s website at https://dacnw.org/. Our Study and Engagement Series helps Board and staff members become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe issues of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for November 5, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

September 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

September 3, 2024, Board Meeting Recap

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their September Board meeting on Tuesday the 3rd at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were six of our nine Board members, our General Manager and Co-op staff, and two Co-op owners.

The General Manager presented her monitoring report for the B1 Financial Conditions policy, which covered fiscal information for the second quarter, April through June, of 2024. The monitoring report for sales growth (B1.1) showed flat sales through the quarter, largely due the loss of a wholesale local meat account. However, all other monitoring reports, including net income (B1.2), adequate ability to meet cash needs (B1.3), debt to equity ratio (B1.4), growth of ownership and equity payments to owners (B1.5), being current on all loans (B1.6), and B1.7 through B1.12, were determined to be in good shape. The overall monitoring report was accepted as in compliance with the policy, with the recognition that B1.1 was out of compliance. The sales growth target for each quarter is 3%, so efforts are underway to find new sales options. Concerns over the impact of inflation and the uncertainty of the upcoming election were discussed. Additional details can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board reviewed its C6 policy covering definitions, responsibilities, and limitations of Board officers. The policy states that the Board shall elect officers to help accomplish the Board’s job. The policy covers the responsibilities as well as restrictions of each officer position, President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. After reviewing the policy, we concluded the Board officers were doing the work they are tasked with, and a motion was made and passed that we were in compliance with the policy. Additional discussion included ideas for Board leadership perpetuation so that new officers are better informed of the leadership roles when they are first elected.

In other business, Director Ken Hart stepped back as chair of the Policy and Bylaw committee due to family time constraints, but he will remain on the committee. Director David Nelson was appointed chair in Ken’s place. Directors Priscilla Schmidt and Stephen Barbuto reported on the previous year’s nominations and elections processes and what changes and issues are being addressed for the upcoming election. It was reported that the election cycle schedule will change, so if you plan on running for a Board seat in the next election, look for the new information when it is released.

For our Study and Engagement Series, Kylee Britzman and Connie Brumm from the Moscow League of Women Voters (LWV) spoke to the Board about their role to encourage active and informed participation in government. Kylee described the history and activities of the LWV and their role in providing unbiased information and advocacy for policies of interest. Connie led us in a hands-on exercise to help us understand how the version of rank choice voting that is on the Idaho ballot as Proposition 1 will work. It was very helpful and fun! They also provided information on the upcoming LWV candidate forums for Latah County candidates on October 7, and Idaho legislative candidates on October 8. Both forums will be held at the Latah County Fairgrounds starting at 7:00 p.m. each night. More information can be found on the Latah County Historical Society website at https://my.lwv.org/idaho/moscow/about.

.Our Study and Engagement Series helps Board and staff members become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe issues of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for October 1, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board's Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

August 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

August 6, 2024, Board Meeting Recap

It’s August and classes at University of Idaho and Washington State University are ready to begin. This means that students are back in our communities and the college town energy is here

once again! Go Vandals and Cougars!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their August Board meeting on Tuesday the 6th at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were seven of our nine Board members, our General Manager and Co-op staff.

The General Manager presented her monitoring report for the B7 Communication with the Board policy, which requires the Board to be appropriately informed on issues and data pertaining to each of her monthly monitoring reports, and any other pertinent information that could affect the Co-op. As Board President, I am very appreciative of the GM’s in-depth policy monitoring reports and her openness and transparency on Co-op related issues. Her feedback to the Board is invaluable for the Board to do its job and for the resilience of the Co-op. A motion was made and approved that we accept the B7 monitoring report with the finding of compliance with all components of the policy. Additional details can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board also reviewed its C5 policy covering Directors’ Code of Conduct. The policy states that Board members act in good faith for the interests of the entire Co-op, that we disclose any conflict of interest with the Co-op, that individual Board members do not have authority over Co-op staff or management personnel, and that we always act with one voice when interacting with the public. This policy is critical for the Board to maintain good relations with Co-op owners and staff. After reviewing the policy, a motion was made and passed that we were in compliance with the policy.

In other business, the Board voted to send two policies, C2 and B9 to the Policy and Bylaw committee for edits approved by Board vote. The Board also approved changes to the charter for the committee that works on elections, annual meetings, and other owner communication opportunities. Furthermore, the Board voted to simplify the name from the Elections and Board Owner Communications Committee (EBOCC) to the Communications and Elections committee (C & E). The name change was a welcome relief for many of us!

For our Study and Engagement Series, Hayley Noble and Kaitlynn Anderson spoke to the Board about the work of the Latah County Historical Society (LCHS). The LCHS is in Moscow with collections in the McConnell Mansion and the Centennial Annex. The LCHS is a non-profit organization that works with many other partners to preserve the shared history of Latah County. The origins of LCHS date back to 1886 and it is the official repository for Latah County for documents, photos, and other records. In addition, LCHS is involved in educational programs for schools and towns and hosts an annual ice cream social for the community. The importance of LCHS cannot be overstated, yet funding remains a big issue. The McConnell Mansion needs maintenance and grants are necessary to fund the repairs. The Moscow Food Co-op has supported LCHS as a recipient of funds from the “Change for Good” program; however, please support or contribute to this organization if you cab. More information can be found on the Latah County Historical Society website at https://www.latahcountyhistoricalsociety.org/.

Our Study and Engagement Series helps Board and staff members become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe issues of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for September 3, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

July 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

July 9, 2024, Board Meeting Recap

As Glenn Frey sang, The Heat is On! And yes, I can feel it! Please, be careful out there!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their July Board meeting on Tuesday the 9th at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were eight of our nine Board members, our General Manager and Co-op staff, and one Co-op owner. We are very excited to announce that Joseph Charles was appointed to the board to fill the vacant seat left open since the last election.

The General Manager presented her monitoring report for the B9 Emergency Succession policy, which requires there to be at least two designated interim general managers trained and prepared to step in as interim successors in the event our General Manager is away. The monitoring report identified two people who could fill a temporary vacancy and listed their qualifications and training. A motion was made and approved that we accept the monitoring report with the finding of compliance with the policy. Additional details can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board also reviewed its C4 policy covering Board meetings. The policy states that we are to use Board meeting time to do the work of the whole Board, that meetings will be open to owners, except during executive sessions, and that we will make Board decisions using motions and majority votes. After reviewing meeting minutes since the policy was monitored a year ago, it was clear that we were in compliance with this policy.

In other business, the Board voted to accept changes to Policy C5 Directors’ code of conduct to better emphasize our compliance with the seven cooperative principles. With the policy revisions, each director was required to sign the new policy. In addition, changes were made to the Executive Committee’s (board officers) charter. The added language better outlines the roles of each officer, and the changes were accepted by the Board in a unanimous vote.

For our Study and Engagement Series, Josilyn Watson and Mike Faupel of the Palouse Basin Aquifer Committee (PBAC) presented a very thorough and well-prepared report on the status of the Palouse Basin aquifers that supplies water for everyone in the Moscow and Pullman areas. They reported that the aquifer is declining by 0.7 feet per year and has been declining since the 1890s. Obviously, water is an absolute necessity, and it was very alarming to hear these details. Josilyn and Mike made a strong case for increased conservation, but also presented information on the possible need to bring in water from other sources. Clearly, a lot of research and thought has gone into remedying this situation, but it was also apparent that there may be no effective quick fixes. We need to do all we can to protect our water resources! View the PBAC report here or more information can be found on the Palouse Basin website at https://palousebasin.org/.

Our Study and Engagement Series is a way in which the Board and staff members become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe issues of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for August 6, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Boards Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

June 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

Summer solstice is nearly upon us, which sadly means that day lengths will begin to decline. Oh well, it also means that long-day plants will begin to flower!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their June Board meeting on Tuesday the 4th at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were all eight Board members, our General Manager and Co-op staff, and one Co-op owner. The General Manager presented a well-documented monitoring report for 2024 first quarter financial conditions and activities for Policy B1. It was noted that the loss of a wholesale account and shipping delays in January due to bad road conditions caused sales growth to be below our target percentage. However, even with the decline in growth, the good news was that overall sales growth for the quarter was positive. All other B1 fiscal sub-policies were accepted in compliance, including net income, which was also positive. More details can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board monitored its C3 policy covering agenda planning and the Board’s supplemental calendar. The C3 policy is a two-part policy that states the Board will maintain a calendar that contains all our activities including meetings, training events, policy monitoring, elections, and GM compensation and evaluations. The second part of the policy requires the Board president to develop meeting agendas, which can be altered if needed by a majority vote of the Board. The calendar itself is not part of the official policy but is included as a supplemental document along with the C3 policy. After a brief discussion, the Board voted that we were in compliance with the C3 policy; however, three small amendments were made to the calendar to better facilitate our work.

In other business, the Board voted to accept the appointment of Joseph Charles to the Board to fill the seat left open from the 2024 election. The Elections and Board Owner Communication Committee (EBOCC) confirmed the 2024 Annual Meeting will be held on Friday, June 28th at Hunga Dunga in Moscow. The Policy and Bylaw committee will add language to Policy C5 Directors’ code of conduct to better emphasize our compliance with the seven cooperative principles. In our concluding discussion, the GM and I shared important reflections from our attendance at the Consumer Cooperative Management Conference (CCMA) held in Portland, ME. We were both very inspired by the presentations in the breakout sessions and the tour stops to different Co-ops and local food producers in the area. I visited a small farm held in a land trust where the mission was to produce and store first-quality food for people who are food insecure. It was a great example of people doing great things for those in need!

For our Study and Engagement Series, we heard from Sam Martinet, Executive Director of the Moscow Chamber of Commerce. Director Martinet did an outstanding job of describing the mission and activities that the Chamber of Commerce provides to Moscow! The Chamber is a confluence of people involved in commerce and the community who work to support both economic activity and quality of life for Moscow and ultimately our entire area. The Chamber maintains six programs that provide member engagement opportunities to support member needs. Among its many other facets, the Chamber maintains an events calendar that keeps everyone up to date on current and planned activities, publishes a magazine of local interest, and is involved in area arts and entertainment, the Farmer’s Market, and various outdoor activities that enhance our quality of life. You can find out more by visiting the Moscow Chamber of Commerce website: https://moscowchamber.com/.

Our Study and Engagement Series is a way in which the Board and staff become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe aspects of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for July 9, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board's Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Further information about our Board meetings is at moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

May 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

Greetings! I hope you were able to view the recent and spectacular display of the northern lights! Very cool, indeed!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their May Board meeting on Tuesday the 7th at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were all eight Board members, our General Manager and Co-op staff, and one Co-op owner via Zoom. On the agenda were the General Manager’s monitoring reports for the B3 Asset Protections Policy, and the B5 Treatment of Customers Policy. The B3 Asset Protection Policy requires the Co-op to have adequate insurance against property and business interruptions, to have adequate liability and asset insurance, and adequate security for the premises and property. The Policy also requires there to be protection for intellectual property and sensitive data, member information, and the Co-op’s public image. The monitoring report was very thorough and was accepted in compliance with the Policy. The B5 Policy requires the Co-op to have a system in place where customers can voice their requests, suggestions, and comments. The Co-op will also maintain a safe and nondiscriminatory environment for all customers. The B5 monitoring report provided data on the number and types of comments, and data on the number of store accidents over the past five years, which was zero in 2023, Yay! All data and interpretations were well presented, and the monitoring report was accepted in compliance. More details can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board monitored its C2 Policy covering the Board’s governance activities. The C2 Policy has six parts and the first sub-policy requires the Board to maintain opportunities for two-way communication between the Board and owners. We do this by holding annual meetings and by having a 10-minute period at the beginning of every Board meeting where owners can address the Board. In addition, individual Board members can listen to owner comments at in-store events and other Co-op sponsored activities, or directly by email. The Policy also requires the Board to delegate responsibility through our various policies, to hold accountable the General Manager through effective monitoring of our policies, and to set General Manager compensation in a strategic and timely manner. We are also charged with providing educational opportunities, which would include our retreats, book readings, and other materials that are available. And, we are responsible for recruiting good candidates for Board service and ensuring fair elections, and other duties that are required by the bylaws. Overall, we found ourselves in compliance with each sub-policy, but do recognize we could implement some more effective Board candidate recruitment strategies.

In other business, the Board heard an announcement from the Elections and Board Owner Communication Committee (EBOCC) regarding planning for the 2024 Annual Meeting, which will be held on Friday, June 28th at Hunga Dunga in Moscow. The Board also heard from EBOCC and the Executive Committees regarding minor changes to each committee’s charter.

For our Study and Engagement Series, we heard from Sandra Townsend from the Moscow Area Mountain Bike Association (MAMBA) regarding their mission, history, and current activities and plans. The association was organized in 1997 by Jim LaFortune to gain access to trails on Moscow Mountain for mountain biking, which was illegal at the time. Access to the trails was given to MAMBA in return for members of the group spending time cleaning up the trails. This has been a great example of community involvement as MAMBA members, which include mountain bikers, runners, hikers, and cross-country skiers have worked together to develop and maintain 60 miles of trails in the area and counting. The group has a working Board of nine non-paid volunteers and is dependent on donations by members and some grant money. Challenges include funding for projects, and a plan for a trail from Moscow to Moscow Mountain in the vicinity of Mountain View Road. You can read more about MAMB and find out how to get involved at their website: https://mambatrails.org/.

Our Study and Engagement Series is a way in which the Board and staff become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe aspects of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for June 4, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board's Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Further information about our Board meetings is at moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

April 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

April snow showers are here! Springtime on the Palouse!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their April Board meeting on Tuesday the 2nd at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were seven Board members, our General Manager, and Co-op staff, and one Co-op owner via Zoom. On the agenda were the General Manager’s monitoring reports for the Ends (A) policy and the Global Executive Constraint (B) policy. The Ends policy monitoring report included data on how the Co-op is fulfilling the written directives stated in the Ends policy (see below). The seven-part report thoroughly detailed how the Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community. The Global Executive Constraint policy states that the General Manager must not allow activities that are unlawful, imprudent, or in violation of accepted business practices, professional ethics and practices, or violate the Cooperative Principles. Both monitoring reports were well detailed and were accepted in compliance with their respective policies. More details can be found in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board also monitored its Global Governance Commitment (C) and Governing Style (C1) policies. The Global C policy requires us to work effectively together, to empower and hold accountable the General Manager, to provide strategic leadership, and to perpetuate our organization. The C1 Governing Style policy describes the framework of how we are to govern based on the Four-Pillar concepts of teaming, accountable empowerment, strategic leadership, and democracy. In both policies, Board members discussed the meaning of strategic leadership and how we might improve in that area. Both policies were accepted in compliance.

In other business, the Board heard an update from the Elections and Board Owner Communication Committee (EBOCC) regarding the time and location for the 2024 Annual Meeting. An Official announcement will be released when finalized. The Board also accepted the results from the 2024 Board election and seated Trish Hartzel and Mark Thorne, each for another three-year term. The Board discussed filling the vacant Board seat left open from this year’s election. A motion was presented and passed to have EBOCC prepare an announcement and begin the process of seeking an individual for appointed to the Board. Finally, the Board approved a slate of members to fill the Board officer positions. Officers for the new year will be Mark Thorne, President, Candis Claiborn, Vice-President, David Nelson, Secretary, and Priscilla Schmidt, Treasurer.

For our Study and Engagement Series, we heard from Kelli Cooper, the Sustainability Programs Coordinator for the City of Moscow. Kelli gave a very nice presentation on the city’s work and plans for dealing with climate change. The Climate Action Plan outlined sources of carbon emissions and offsets through carbon sequestration and transitioning to electric vehicles. Moscow intends for city operations to be carbon net-zero by 2035, and for the community to be carbon net-zero by 2050. Clearly, a lot of work and planning has gone into climate action, and a lot of work remains. Nice work, Kelli and Moscow! You can read more about the Climate Action Plan at their website: https://www.ci.moscow.id.us/1002/Climate-Action-Plan.

Our Study and Engagement Series is a way in which the Board and staff become better informed about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe aspects of concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for May 7, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center (412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board's Administrative Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

March 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their March Board meeting on Tuesday the 5 th

at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were eight of nine Board members, our General

Manager, and Co-op staff, and one Co-op owner via Zoom. On the agenda was the General

Manager’s B1 monitoring report on the financial conditions covering the fourth quarter of 2023.

The Co-op experienced an increase in sales and net income compared to the same period in

2022. In addition, net income compared to other comparable Co-ops in the region was in much

better shape. The Board accepted all aspects of the B1 report in compliance. The General

Manager also presented her B2 monitoring report covering planning and financial planning,

which the Board also accepted in compliance with our stated policies. More details can be found

in the General Manager’s FYI report on the Meetings and Minutes page of the Co-op’s webpage.

The Board also monitored its D3 and D4 policies. These policies, like D1 and D2, define the

relationship between the Board and the General Manager. The D3 policy defines that the Board

delegates authority to the General Manager in the form of the written Ends (A policy) and

Executive Limitations (B policies). The D4 policy defines how the Board monitors and evaluates

the performance of the General Manager. The Board found itself to be in compliance with these

policies.

In other business, the Board heard an update from the Elections and Board Owner

Communication Committee regarding progress on planning the 2024 Annual Meeting, and we

brainstormed regarding topics for the upcoming spring retreat. We also finished up our book

reading assignments for “13 Ways to Kill Your Community,” which we have been reading as a

group activity. The author presents some very good insights into keeping a community viable

and thriving.

For our Study and Engagement Series, we heard from Janna Jones, Nick Koenig, and Megan

Stedman from Inland Oasis in Moscow. Island Oasis is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit volunteer

organization that supports the LGBTQ+ community and allies on the Palouse. They are located

on the west side of Moscow behind Big Smoke tobacco shop and just west of Mod Pizza. They

operate the Westside Food Pantry, which handles around 12,000 pounds of food per month.

They host programs focusing on education, social, and health issues, and are developing a

community center within their building. Inland Oasis sponsors drag night and bingo and has

organized the August Pride in the Park celebration at East City Park. Volunteers for Inland Oasis

have been working hard to create a safe space to work and gather. You can find out more

information, or make donations, online at their website, https://www.inlandoasis.org/. Please

consider financial support if you are able!

Our Study and Engagement Series is a way in which the Board and staff become better informed

about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles

states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe aspects of

concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for April 2, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center

(412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners

can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board’s Administrative

Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-

meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

February 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

I’m not sure if Moscow Marmot predicted an early spring, but I am sure spring will arrive at some point. The robins are back, so we can go with that!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their February Board meeting on Tuesday the 6th at the 1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were eight of nine Board members, our General Manager, and Co-op staff. No Co-op owners were present in person or via Zoom.

The Board heard from the General Manager regarding December sales and January product availability issues. Winter storms in January shut down I-84 through the Columbia Gorge and caused delayed shipments for over a week and empty shelves in the store. Furthermore, a nationwide trucker strike resulted in further product shortages. However, when supplies arrived, the Co-op staff did a stellar job of getting boxes unloaded and products on the shelves. Nice work everyone! See details in the General Manager’s FYI.

The General Manager also presented a well-written and concise document for staff to use when explaining the benefits, definition, rights, and responsibilities of being a Co-op Owner. This should help clear up confusion around what it means to be a Co-op Owner.

The Board also monitored its D1 and D2 policies. These are policies that define the relationship between the Board and the General Manager regarding Board authorizations and criteria to be used to evaluate the performance of the Co-op. We all agreed the Board has spoken with one voice through motions and has properly relied on the monitoring reports of the Ends (A policy) and Executive Limitations (B policies) for evaluating performance and accountability. After a brief discussion, we found ourselves in compliance with these policies. In addition, we reviewed our Policy Governance model by looking at the interrelatedness of the basic components, which are the Owners, Board, General Manager, and Ends. It is good to remind ourselves that by properly monitoring our policies, we are working to meet the needs of the Owners.

In other business, the Board heard from the Elections and Board Owner Communication

Committee regarding progress on planning the 2024 Annual Meeting and an in-store event for

Owners to engage with the Board and candidates for the upcoming election. We also had a very

good discussion regarding chapters from the book, “13 Ways to Kill Your Community”, which

we have been reading as a group activity. The author presents some very good insights into

keeping a community viable and thriving.

For our Study and Engagement Series, we heard from Josh Larson of Sojourners Alliance in

Moscow. Sojourners Alliance is a non-profit organization that is working to confront the issues

of being unhoused, hungry, and in poverty. Josh described the housing programs they offer

which include transitional housing, motel vouchers for short-term relief, unhoused prevention

aid, financial support to cover deposits and first month’s rent to facilitate rapid rehousing, and

support for permanent housing for those with disabilities. Josh also indicated that funding, which

has come from fundraisers, donations, and grants, needs to increase to cover increasing demands.

Josh also pointed out that there has been great support from people in our communities to address

these problems. Sojourners Alliance will be a Dime in Time recipient at the Moscow Food Co-

op, and you can find out more information, or make donations, online at their website,

https://www.sojournersalliance.org/. Please consider financial support if you are able!

Our Study and Engagement Series is a way in which the Board and staff become better informed

about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles

states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe aspects of

concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for March 5, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center

(412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners

can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board's Administrative

Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-

meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.

January 2024

Mark Thorne, Board President

Happy and hopeful 2024!

The Moscow Food Co-op Board of Directors held their first meeting of 2024 on January 9 th at the

1912 Center from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Present were eight of nine Board members, our General

Manager and Co-op staff, and a Co-op owner via Zoom. The Board reviewed the General

Manager’s B6 Staff Treatment and Compensation monitoring report. The report consisted of

results from surveys given to staff during 2023 as well as a compensation report for salary ranges

for all Co-op pay groups. It was encouraging to see survey results that indicate staff feel they

work in a safe, fair, and equitable environment, and that Co-op employee compensation is

comparable to or exceeds wages offered by similar businesses in our area. In addition to

favorable wage scales, it was also noted that all staff have received a cost-of-living increase to

offset inflationary costs. All reports were encouraging and accepted in compliance with their

respective sub-policy. The Board appreciates all employees of the Co-op and unanimously

supports fair treatment and compensation for their great work.

The Board also monitored its Global D policy which simply states that “The Board’s sole point

of delegation for the operations of the Cooperative shall be the General Manager (GM).” This

policy is key to the relationship between the Board and the General Manager and says that the

General Manager is the only person the Board hires, monitors, empowers and holds accountable

for overseeing and managing the Co-op. An example of a clear violation of this policy would be

for the Board, or any individual Director, to attempt to manage or direct any Co-op staff member

in any way. The Board fully understands this directive and found itself in compliance with the

policy since the policy was last monitored. This does not, however, preclude a Board member

from working with staff on Board-related issues such as the Annual Meeting or elections.

The Board approved clarifying language made by the Policy and Bylaw Committee to Policy C6,

which covers the role of Board Officers, and motioned to have Policy and Bylaw review the

appointment language in Policy C9. The Elections and Board Owner Communication Committee

reported potential plans for the 2024 Annual Meeting and plans for an in-store event for Owners

to engage with the Board and candidates for the upcoming election. The Board approved the

slate of candidates for the 2024 Board Election, which only included incumbents Trish Hartzel

and Mark Thorne as no other owners submitted applications. The General Manager’s FYI report

was very informative and showed that the 2023 customer count was up compared to the past two

years, and that two new espresso machines have been installed, one at the main store and one at

the campus store! Coffee is a major and essential food group!

For our Study and Engagement Series, we heard from Darrell Keim, Executive Director of the

Latah Recovery Center. The Center’s mission is to work with people in recovery from addiction

and behavioral health disorders and uses peer-to-peer interaction and evidence-based practices.

The Center provides coaching, recovery referrals, work on life skills, support groups for people

reentering communities after being in jail, crisis center partnering to give 24/365 help, and harm

reduction practices including HIV and HCV testing, safe syringe exchange, naloxone, condoms,

and referral resources. The Center is also working with Oxford House to provide a men’s sober

house and is in the planning process for a women’s house. It was encouraging to hear Darrell talk

about the dedicated people of the Recovery Center who are genuinely committed to community

health by providing much-needed services to people who have struggled. The Co-op is

participating in this great effort by hosting a Care Box at the main store, which will have free

Narcan (naloxone), which is critical for surviving opioid overdoses. A second Care Box is

located at the University of Idaho Campus Christian Center. The Latah Recovery Center is now a

Dime in Time recipient at the Moscow Food Co-op, and you can find out more information, or

make donations, online at their website, https://latahrecoverycenter.org/. The Recovery Center

has helped hundreds of people and is an invaluable component of our community.

Our Study and Engagement Series is a way in which the Board and staff become better informed

about issues and activities that affect our community. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles

states that we have “Concern for Community,” and listening to people describe aspects of

concern in our community is directly tied to our Ends.

The next Board meeting is scheduled for February 6, 2024, in the Fiske Room at the 1912 Center

(412 E 3rd St, Moscow, ID). The meeting will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Current Co-op Owners

can attend in person or via Zoom. To attend via Zoom, contact the Board's Administrative

Assistant at boardadmin@moscowfood.coop for more information and to RSVP.

Further information about our Board meetings is at https://www.moscowfood.coop/board-

meetings.

Sincerely,

Mark Thorne, Board President

Moscow Food Co-op Ends Policy

The Moscow Food Co-op is at the heart of a thriving, healthy, and inclusive community where:

1. We embody and embrace cooperative principles and values.

2. All community members have local access to environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and healthful choices.