Attention all MoBo members:

As you may know, the current governing body of the co-op is the interim board. This May, MoBo will have its first ever election to determine who will be on the official board for 2008-2009. The highest nine vote-getters will be winners of the one year term. The only eligibility requirements are membership in good standing (having paid the twenty dollar membership fee for the year) and a dedication to the co-op and the co-op's mission and vision (please see Mobobicyclecoop.org for both!). The responsibilities of the board include both the day-to-day running of the co-op and long term planning for its future. These are exciting times for MoBo and the cycling community; becoming a board member is a surefire way of being right in the thick of it and maintaining the co-op's momentum. Everyone who wants to give back as much as they can to the co-op is encouraged to run, as a hearty dose of participatory democracy will be healthy for the co-op. Not to scare anyone off, but know that board members are required to attend a two hour board meeting every other week, and actively participate in or chair at least one committee; it is a serious time commitment. Board members are required to log 20 hours each month in the volunteer binder.

The election itself will be held by secret ballot during open shop hours on Sunday May 17, Tuesday May 19, and Wednesday May 20. During these days, ballots will be given to any paid member who so desires. The member's name will then be crossed off a list to prevent double voting. Any member who has joined prior to the election's beginning may vote; memberships may be renewed at any point.

To declare candidacy or to ask any questions, e-mail mobogovernance@gmail.com by May 9 at 5 PM. Include your full name, contact info, and a platform statement. Names of candidates and their statements will be posted in the co-op and on the website as they are submitted, but no declarations of candidacy will be accepted after May 9 at 5 PM. Please be brief and positive- suggested prompts are "What experience do you have with MoBo?", "Where do you see MoBo going?", and "How do you feel you can contribute to MoBo?". Please attach a recent picture of yourself. Platforms may not be longer than one single spaced page, including a picture.

We are really looking forward to seeing your platforms!

Our best,

The Governance Committee