Our bylaws date back to 1983, with a single amendment in 1985. Considering our many successful accomplishments during the intervening 25 years, they serve us well. Still, in 2008 the fact is that we operate differently from what they prescribe, in many ways.
The most obvious difference is that the Board of Directors is no longer divided into nineteen committees, each with its own operating budget and a chairman who is a member of a "Standing Committee." Another example is our part-time employee who performs the duties of more than one designated officer.
I have been told that before my time there have been other attempts to amend our bylaws, but none reached a vote. What caused me to be determined to make this one work is PIAS' need to seek money from grants. We must further our capital cmpaign for the new education center, its equipment and furnishings, as well as financing for numerous other environmental goals. Grant givers require the submission of all legal documents. I cannot see our submitting bylaws that do not reflect how we actually operate in 2008.
By the time the amendments will be presented before the membership at the General Meeting on May 19th, the Board of Directors will have reviewed and discussed them at their April 28th meeting and will report their recommendations to you.
