Board Members have a duty to represent the owners as a whole and not a particular constituency, and to always act in the owners’ best interests. Board Members are compensated through a $1,000 grocery stipend for each year they actively serve on the Board.
A strong and successful co-op depends on a highly functioning and effective Board of Directors.
Eligibility, Expectations and Qualifications of Board Members
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Eligibility
To serve on the Co-op Board of Directors you must be:
A member-owner of the Cooperative in good standing (your Class A Share must be in your name and paid in full)
21 years of age by October 18
Able to undergo a successful professional background check including fingerprinting required by the State Liquor Authority
Willing to make a 3-year commitment to the Board
What makes a great Director?
Ability to abide by the Co-op’s bylaws and Board policies
Commitment to attendance and active participation at monthly board meetings (two hours on second Mondays), the annual owners’ meeting (October), retreats and training sessions, regular committee meetings and occasional owner engagement opportunities
Willingness to learn to understand financial reports (training will be provided)
Access to the internet and the availability to respond to occasional Board related e-mail
Genuine dedication to the Seven Cooperative Principles, and to the Lexington Co-op’s vision, values, growth, and well-being
A willingness to abide by the Board’s code of conduct, and to work collaboratively with understanding, mutual support and respect
Possess an inquisitive nature and willingness to listen and learn, and act with integrity, flexibility and common sense from a pragmatic, informed point of view.
The ability to lead, facilitate discussions and work towards building consensus
Objectivity to assume fiduciary responsibility to steward the Co-op on behalf of the member-owners, in consideration of the Co-op’s three primary stakeholder groups: member-owners, employees, and vendors
In addition, you must not:
Have an overriding conflict of interest
Be a paid employee or the spouse/partner of a paid employee
This year there will be (4) three-year term. To run for a seat, apply on-line following the instructions below.
How to Run
Board Application and Election Process
Access the board application below:
On your application, answer the following questions
(Suggested word count per answer 150-250)
Why do you want to serve as a director on the Co-op’s Board?
What skills, experience (personal and/or professional), or training do you have that makes you a great candidate for Lexington Co-op Board of Directors? (Bulleted list recommended)
What role(s) should the Lexington Co-op serve in the WNY Community?
You will also be asked to:
List your potential conflicts of interest with the Co-op and agree to abide by the Board’s Code of Conduct
Certify that you meet the eligibility requirements listed
Upload a photo of yourself
Your application responses will be published on the Co-op’s website and appear on the ballot.
Board Meeting Attendance
(Strongly encouraged)
To help you gain a better understanding of how the Lexington Co-op Board operates, we strongly encourage candidates to attend at least one upcoming board meeting before the election. It’s a great way to observe the board in action and get a feel for the culture and responsibilities of board service.
Meetings are hybrid — you can attend in person or virtually.
At the meeting, you’ll be briefly introduced and invited to share a few words at the start. Otherwise, you’re welcome to observe and listen. We’ll also invite your feedback at the end, just like we do for any attending owners.
If you’re unable to attend, feel free to reach out to any current board member to learn more.
Co-op owners will vote via an on-line ballot, or at the Annual Meeting. Election results will be available several days after the election and posted on our website.
Board Meeting dates: July 14, August 11, September 8, and October 6—all are from 7-9:00pm