December 18, 2006 Outlook & Review (64k )

OSBA’s Governance Committee is well on its way to crafting a new model that shifts more decision-making to regions, according to committee chair David Beeson (Silver Falls).

The group plans to survey members in February when it has a model to “test.” OSBA’s spring regional meetings (March-May) also will provide a feedback forum.

The group is leaning toward decentralizing OSBA elections, including the method of selecting OSBA board members and officers.

At its first meeting, the group adopted priorities to focus debate as it studies other models and OSBA’s current structure:

• Continuance of “one voice” for legislative strength
• Fairness in member representation
• Increased unity through more participation
• Consistency and transparency in communications and governance
• Continuity of leadership for OSBA and its board
• Balance between number of boards and ADM

The group will meet again January 5 and 6 in Salem. Watch for updates, meeting dates, minutes and reports online under "What's New" in the 2006-07 Governance Review section.

Beeson will send a more detailed e-mail message about the group’s progress to all OSBA members.