Life at Beechwood Co-op

Beechwood Co-op is based on the principle of participatory democracy, and its operatation is controlled by its members. Residents are members, not tenants, and there is no landlord.

The co-op is governed by a Board of Directors who are elected by the members to oversee the daily functioning of the co-op. The Board of Directors consist of a President, Vice-President, Corporate Secretary, Treasurer and four other Directors. There are also two non-voting Youth Representatives who attend the non-confidential portion of each Board meeting.

The members of the Board of Directors for 2011/2012 are:

President: Cara-Mae
Vice-President: Betty
Corporate Secretary: Melissa
Treasurer: Eduard
Directors: Jackie, Rosemarie, Shelley, Jody
Youth Rep: Chiara

Each member is expected to assist in some aspect of co-op operations. This can include attending general meetings, being a part of one or more committees, taking on tasks around the co-op. The co-op is very proud of the level of community invovement, which helps to build community spirit, make the co-op more democratic and keep housing charges as affordable as possible.

The Property Management Committee is responsible for ensuring that the co-op buildings and grounds are well maintained. It organizes annual Spring and Fall Clean-up Days, usually followed by a community barbeque. 

The Community Development Committee plays a very important role in creating fun events for members and their children. Past events have including a Spaghetti Night, a Pancake Breakfast, an annual Halloween Party, a Toy Swap Day, and a Carnival Day.

The Personnel Committee administers the employment contracts with the Community Co-ordinator and other employees.

Two short term committees are created each year -- a Budget Committee to collect information and draft a Budget for Board and member approval, and a Nominating Committee to recruit members to run for the Board of Directors.

For more information on how to join a committee or get involved in other ways, please feel free to call the Beechwood Co-op office at 519-886-0359.