Each month, The Merc Co+op Board of Directors shares the decisions and topics discussed at their most recent meeting, promoting transparency and accountability with co-op owners.
Melissa Williams, Board Member
April Board Report
Melissa Williams, Board Member
On Monday, April 3, did you see any flashes of light coming from The Merc Co+op’s building on 5th & Minnesota? If you did, they were lightbulb moments that I had during the monthly board meeting. As the newest member of the Board of Directors, I am learning so very much about co-ops, about governance and about the grocery business.
The first lightbulb moment was hearing that - yes, we are a business, but we are also a community oriented entity. We are here to support the needs of Kansas City and the Lawrence, Kansas communities with fresh food and affordable alternatives. As a new board member with a grassroots social services work history, my very soul was ignited.
The second lightbulb moment was hearing from our guest speaker, Daniel Robinson with Groundwork NRG, as he spoke of the progress of their efforts to open a co-op on Quindaro. Our illustrious leader, General Manager Rita York Hennecke, and her staff have been so supportive of it through consulting and providing other support, like co-op information materials and hosting meetings in the co-op’s conference room. I have never been so proud to be a part of a group that wholly supported the development of what some traditional businesses would believe to be competition. My heart was full to witness such kindness.
The third and last lightbulb moment I have to report is that The Merc Co+op’s board and its general manager are so very organized and in compliance with the policies and procedures established and voted on by previous boards.
I have learned so much about being a part of the governance of a co-op board since my first meeting in December. I also encourage co-op members to attend at least one in person or online meeting.
My hope is that the new and seasoned members of the Merc will join with confidence that their board of directors and all of the staff of the Merc are compassionate, concerned and will make decisions that will benefit all co-op members and staff.
Joyfully submitted by your newest board member,
Melissa Williams
About the Board
The Merc Co+op's Board of Directors is comprised of nine co-op owners who are elected by the general ownership and serve a three-year term. Any co-op owner can run for a board position.
The board creates a set of policies to govern themselves and the General Manager, who provides the group with regular reports on store operations. The board delegates all operational matters to the General Manager.
Board Meetings
All co-op owners are invited to attend monthly board meetings. Early in the agenda, the board reserves ten minutes of space to hear from owners who wish to address the board.
Run for the Board
A strong and successful cooperative depends on a highly functional and effective Board of Directors to represent owners in our regional community. Our nine-person board, representing all 9,400+ owners, shapes the co-op’s vision while evaluating the performance of the business through Policy Governance. This year, there are three open seats.
Any owner can run for the board, and board benefits include a 15% discount on all your store purchases!