I attended the first of the several public meetings the Club Board is conducting to explain the new proposed Club Bylaws. Though it was obvious at the meeting that Villagers are confused, and the Club Board does have work to do to help them understand the new proposed Club Bylaws, I was appalled at the rudeness of Villagers at the meeting. This is a perfect example of why we have trouble getting candidates for the boards, especially the Club Board. These directors are not just sitting back warming their seats for three years. They are working countless hours to make a positive difference in our community. They aren’t perfect, but I believe we should give them credit for putting themselves out there and treat them with the respect they deserve. I feel strongly that they are listening to the community, and they will present us with a final document that we can get behind. Let’s give them a chance to do so; and while continuing to express our concerns, do so with respect.
—Teddy Morse
The Villages Club Board plans to send out Amended Bylaws in a few months. This bylaws vote is particularly important for Members to cast ballots. I believe bylaws are the foundation of how the Club Board of Directors govern.
The bylaws approved by Members in 2006 provides Checks & Balances that protects our interests in The Villages. Certainly, these bylaws should be amended without diminishing the Checks & Balances that protects our rights when important decisions need to be made. Specifically, my opinion is that when ANY revision no matter how minor is made to our Bylaws, a Member vote should continue to be required in the future. Article XI 1.a of the proposed 5/31/2024 bylaws Draft has a provision where changes can be made by the Board without a Member vote. I think this is not acceptable.
Members Matter and your particpation by voting on Amended Villages Bylaws is extremely important.
—Howie Blumstein
Publisher’s Response: Thank you for your Pulse Letter. The Club Board has heard the concerns and is listening to all Villagers. Following the feedback received at the June 3 town hall meeting, the Club Board recognizes the need for a revised timeline for the proposed updated bylaws. To ensure that every member has an opportunity to participate and provide input, the CBOD has paused the Club Bylaws project to re-evaluate and determine next steps.
Please stay tuned for both a revised timeline and additional opportunities for member input.
