What is the Bylaw Review Project?
The Bylaws Task Force, a sub-group of Policy & Governance Committee, has been developing proposals for changes to our bylaws for members to vote on at congregational meetings. We were created in spring of 2020 and include Grace Colton (P&G member), Marcy Langrock, a rotating SLT member, Ryam Hill , Mary Anderson (P&G member), and David Langrock (Board Liaison). We were empowered by the Policy and Governance Committee to look at ALL of East Shore’s Bylaws to ensure that they are up-to-date, comply with Washington State Law, conform to UUA standards, minimize oppression, and are useful and easy to understand.
What does the last phase include?
The Task Force plans to conclude this project by East Shore’s June 9, 2024 Congregational Business meeting. This is an aggressive schedule that includes review of the bylaw sections that cover committees and ministry teams, ministers, congregational meetings, public witness activities, elections, Officers & Trustees, and the appendix. A review of each bylaw includes input from various stakeholders from throughout the congregation and includes the Board, Staff Leadership Team, and Reverend Maria Cristina as the primary stakeholders of these sections. This last, and final phase began at the conclusion of East Shore’s Congregational Business meeting in December 2023.
What is the timeline?
Following stakeholder input, the congregation will be invited to comment and react to revisions and updates. The Bylaws Task Force has begun talking with the Board and lay leadership about possible changes. In March 2024 we will offer several discussion forums for congregation wide input. The Board will approve a final revised version of the bylaws at their May Board meeting. Also, the Bylaws Task Force will offer several Information Forums in early June before the June 9 congregational meeting. At the June 9 meeting, the congregation will vote on the revised bylaw document.
Questions can be directed to Grace Colton.