The past few months have seen signifiant discussions taking place at the board level about all levels of operations, and one item in particular has been on our agenda for some time... the adjustment of our board size to align with the best practices of small to mid-size non-profit organizations. In looking carefully at the way we’re structured and suggesting amendments to our current processes, our hope is to strengthen and streamline decision making and the implementation of important actions on behalf of Standardbred Canada. The following is an open letter about the upcoming vote on downsizing our board of directors, which I felt would be valuable for all members to read.
The Board has discussed the reduction of our Board size several times at length and the conversation was not taken lightly. In November, the motion to adopt the new Board structure was passed.
This topic has been reviewed over many years. Much expertise and information has been sought in order to gain information and insight into the size of our Board. The main reasons for the proposed changes are to allow for optimal Board communication and greater flexibility as well as improved proficiency and engagement of Directors. Alignment with best practices of most non-profit organizations, which have smaller, more streamlined Boards, will help to more effectively lead the association strategically and financially. Of course, there are some expenses that will likely be reduced but this was not the primary reason for change.
We always hope that the members will elect the best suited candidates for each region. Further, current Directors and the SC Governance Committee have responsibility to assist in the recruiting and nomination of suitable Board members. We anticipate this will increase the number of nominees and geographic range for members to vote from.
The Board understands that some regions are a large geographic area however, in this electronic age, information is very easily accessible and electronic communication with members and stakeholders is becoming more and more prevalent.
Our Board supports the amendments and proposes them in the best interest of the membership. The membership will have an opportunity to vote on the proposed changes to Board structure, as well as many other By-Law amendments, this coming fall. Information regarding the amendments will be widely available for members. We trust that our members will make an informed decision when voting on the by-laws.