Stage 4: Drafting New Rules
Back to RulesStep 7: Make a first draft of your new Rules
Make a first draft of your new Rules based on the Model with your chosen options copied in from the Options Guides.
The editable Word versions of the Model Rules can be found in Rules Tools for Stage 4 below. You can also find some word processing tips to make your job easier.
If you propose changes to the Rules that do not align with Model Rules or the Options Guide, contact CHF BC and/or the co-op’s lawyer to make sure that you haven’t contradicted any section of the Co-op Act. Rules that are inconsistent with the Act are void.
Step 8: Have the Board review the first draft of the new Rules
Meet with the Board and review the first draft of the new Rules. When the Board is satisfied with the draft, you are ready to involve the members again.
Step 9: Hold an information meeting for members
Circulate a draft of the new Rules to members and hold an information meeting. If the members have serious concerns or many suggestions for changes, you may have to retrace your steps and return to Step 7. This is time well spent, and it will improve your chances of success at Step 11.
At the information meeting:
- Explain the background and reasons for what you are doing
- Find out if there is general support for the direction you are taking
- Get feedback that can be useful at the next stage of the process
- Prepare members for the meeting that will approve the new Rules
Step 10: Present the final draft to the Board
Produce a final draft after the information meeting with members, then meet with the Board to review this final draft. When the board is satisfied, ask the directors to decide on a date for a formal meeting of members to approve the new Rules.
Rules Tools for Stage 4
