Convention Funding and Strategy

Previous convention resolutions typically addressed one-time costs, not ongoing expenses. Ongoing costs necessitate separate funding, such as a dues increase or alternative sources.

Convention Scope: Not every issue requires a convention; constitutional changes mandate it, while one-time costs can be managed within existing budgets.
Strategic Planning: Ongoing costs demand strategic planning and may require alternative funding mechanisms.
Risk Mitigation: Committees should explore strategic paths to achieve goals with minimal risk.

Funding Sources and Alternatives

Dues collected since 1991 primarily fund services like negotiations, arbitrations, and representation. Proposals reaching the convention floor would likely draw from national funds, not specific local dues.

Service Agreements: Some initiatives could be integrated into service agreements, potentially covering about 90% of cases, as an alternative to convention.

Representation at Triennial Convention

The discussion centers on triennial national conventions, aiming to ensure every DCL (District Council/Local) has potential representation.

Smaller DCLs: Currently, smaller DCLs may lack guaranteed seats, often grouped to select delegates.
Goal of Representation: The objective is to allow all DCLs to elect a national DCL representative or committee.
Advisory Committee Focus: The ultimate focus is on establishing an advisory committee to the board, not creating full-time paid representative roles.

Committee Structure and Responsibilities

An advisory committee is proposed to enhance DCL input to the National Board of Directors (NBOD).

Committee Composition: The committee should include two representatives per region with DCLs, elected by their respective regions.
Leadership: A chairperson would be selected by the committee members.
Member Commitment: Members would not be full-time but would be allocated adequate time to prepare for NBOD meetings.
Defining Responsibilities: Clearly defining committee responsibilities and gathering input are crucial for successful outcomes.
Practical Considerations: Questions arise regarding the committee's part-time operation, balancing activism with other work, and the workload for resource and training development.

Key Themes / Takeaways

Funding Strategy: Differentiate between one-time and ongoing costs, planning strategically as convention is not always the optimal solution.
Inclusive Representation: Ensure all DCLs, especially smaller ones, have a voice in national decision-making processes.
Advisory Committee Model: Establish an advisory committee with elected regional members, operating part-time to provide meaningful input.
Feasibility Concerns: Address practical issues such as resource allocation, training development, and member workload to ensure the committee's viability.

Convention Funding, Representation, and Advisory Committee Structure

Convention Funding, Representation, and Advisory Committee Structure