[Kzyxtalk] Inspection, Policy Priorities

[dennisobrien at sharejerusalem.com]

At this time I am stepping aside from the process of inspecting the financial and membership records of MCPB/KZYX.  I do not have the interest in financial matters that others have.  As for the membership rolls, I am more interested in the process than the content.  Although I understand the concerns of those who believe that such an inspection is still necessary, I am going to focus instead on policies and procedures.

Implementation of the Programming Policy, including the Program Advisory Council, must be given a high priority, and should be considered when selecting a new Program Director.  Any programmer who was terminated by the prior management should be given a chance to appeal the action to the Personnel Committee, a process that was stymied by the former GM and PD.  And allowing members who join in January and February to vote in the spring elections is essential for good governance, and may be required under state law.

It is not too late to extend the voting eligibility deadline at the January meeting, as there is no rule against expanding membership rights retroactively.  If the end of February seems unworkable at this time, please consider an extension until January 31, the same day that candidates for the board must declare.  This will still allow a month to finish updating the rolls, and will satisfy those who are concerned that people might join just to vote for a specific candidate.

Thank you very much for you efforts this year to place policy over personalities.  It is helping us through a great transition, including the hiring of a new General Manager.  The agenda for Monday's meeting is both encouraging and ambitious.  The best of luck to all of us as we work to improve public community radio in Mendocino County.

Dennis O'Brien