Minutes of the 5-04-2009 Board Meeting

Medford Food Coop
Minutes of May 4, 2009 Board Meeting 6:00 pm

Present:  Jim Sims, Polly Williams, Louise Dix, John Statler, John Miele, Steve Kraft, Will Taft, and Tommy Larson

The minutes of the April 20, 2009 board meeting were approved unanimously.

Budget Discussion

There was a general discussion of the proposed $1.5 million start-up budget for the coop and the various ways it might be structured (loans, guarantees, co-signs, etc).  It was generally agreed that this size might not be the most appropriate given the current economics, and that it would be a good idea to develop budgets for three different size options (Best, Medium, and Minimum).  The site review and finance committees will meet and develop three different budgets that then can be presented to the members for their input.

It was agreed that the potluck planned for May 18th be postponed until there is something more concrete to offer the members.  The mailing/email has not yet gone out so no notification would need to go out to members.

The board went into executive session from 7:10 to 7:25pm.

Reports:

We had a table at the Farmer’s Market on Thursday here in Medford and it generated a lot of interest.  Number one question – “Where is it going to be?”  There was discussion about how to handle credit cards at these locations for people wanting to become members, and a method/form will be created for that purpose.

Polly reported that she was unable to get us free table space at the Roxy Ann Winery farmer’s market.  They will let us have a table, but because space is limited, will not provide it for free.

Unified Grocers (Foodland) wants to meet with us in 3 weeks, and want to see more financial details.  We will notify them that we are not yet ready, but will have them in the near future.

A phone line for the organization has not yet been set up.  John Statler agreed to follow up and see what the actual cost/fees will be.  He will report back at the next meeting.

With no further business, the meeting was closed at 8:35pm