By Sarah Taylor
In an effort to create a more inclusive and practical Linnton Neighborhood Association, I am proposing the following changes to our bylaws, our organization’s governance document. We could also consider organizing business community meetings.
A lot has happened since the bylaws were last updated including the impact of the COVID pandemic and virtual meetings on community engagement, our understanding of voters’ rights, the importance of youth voices in decision making, and the ability to recognize and make the best use of people’s strengths.
Some of the key changes I’d like to see would be to ensure everyone who resides within the boundaries of the neighborhood association is able to be a constituent of the association, especially high school students who should be able to vote.
Second, I propose residents may vote by phone or zoom, provided we are able to provide hybrid meetings, and do not have to be in person to vote.
I also recommend we alter how the board designates who represents the association on the board of Neighbors West Northwest, our district coalition. We could also consider organizing business community meetings. I’d also like to provide more flexibility for the board to be able to change meeting times to best reach the most people and to accommodate the needs of the community.
If you have questions or want to discuss, please feel free to contact me at sarahsojourner@mac.com.