Three Rivers Market Board Election Update

Three Rivers Market Owners,

We are writing to ensure that you are aware of the most up-to-date information regarding this year’s election for the Board of Directors.

Each year, Three Rivers Market calls for eligible candidates to run for election to serve on the Board of Directors. Three seats open each year for three-year terms. There are nine total seats on the Board.

At times when there have been fewer candidates than there are open seats, or when Board members vacate a seat mid-term, the Board has identified eligible members willing to serve and made appointments. In those cases, elections have not been held.

Four applications for Board Candidacy were submitted. During the Board’s Fall Strategic Planning Session, concerns about inherent conflicts of interest for three candidates were raised.  Seven board members voted (one Board member was not present, and one withdrew from the vote because of their own candidacy). By a majority, one candidate’s application was declined based on the majority’s conclusion that said candidate had an inherent conflict of interest. This vote resulted in three Board members resigning. Within the week, a facilitated Board session was held with all potential candidates, after which two of the three remaining candidates withdrew their applications. At this time, only one candidate is running for the Board.

Following previous precedent regarding number of candidates, an election will not be held, and the Board will pursue appointments of qualified members willing to volunteer to serve.

We understand there is need for stability in governance of our cooperative and we will continue to work toward that end. We welcome member comments and questions, but with respect for confidentiality, we will not disclose further details relating to private discussions, or individual candidates or Board members.

If you are interested in being appointed to a Board seat, we welcome you to fill out our application here. We also encourage members to register to attend monthly Board meetings on the second Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, as well as our Annual Meeting, scheduled for December 4th from 6 to 8 pm. A registration form is forthcoming.

In cooperation,

The Three Rivers Market Board of Directors