Understanding Our Elections Process

Every year the cooperative's Worker-Owner Members get together (virtually) to participate in the democratic process of electing our Board of Directors.

The Obran Goverance Model

What is a Board and What Does it Do?

Who can run for the Board?

All Obran Members are eligible to run for the Board of Directors of the cooperative. In order to run, they must first be nominated by another Member. From time to time, Members will also appoint an outside or "independent" representative meant to bring additional expertise or capacity to the Board.

How do I nominate someone for the Board?

At the beginning of the 4th quarter of every year (beginning in October) the Governance Committee will solicit nominations from all Members for candidates for open Board positions. The nomination process will go on for 2 months until the final ballot is confirmed in December.

How long are you expected to stay on the Board?

Board terms (both at the Cooperative and at each of our businesses) are generally set for 2 years. They rotate so that there will always be an odd number of Board members.

Are Board members paid?

Yes. All Worker-Owner Board members are paid a solidarity rate of $20/hour.