GEARS BOARD MEETING, MAY 11, 2009
At Keystone Café, 7-9pm
PRESENT: Paul Adkins, Rick Bronson, Gary Cook, Brian Thompson, Michal Young, Rob Roy, Webb Sussman, Eric Selker, Jay Klein, Sonja May, Sue Wolling, Lynda Christiansen, Richard Hughes, Shane Rhodes
MINUTES: corrected minutes were approved.
TREASURER’S REPORT: Richard presented the report, attached.
MEMBERSHIP: Michal reported the member roster has been replaced with a format that is easier to use, including membership numbers. The household membership needs further work he said.
501(c)3 UPDATE: Brian opened a discussion of Gears current 501(c)7 designation and the issue of becoming a 501(c)3. It was noted that Brian processed the current tax status of the club several years ago, when Gears obtained the tax identification for an LAB rally, which it hosted. Brian noted that a 501(c)7 designation is a social club, that Letters to the Editor, Calls to Action, for example, may not be permitted under this, and does not provide for tax exemptions for donations. Brian stated we can retain our current designation, and add 501(c)3 for advocacy. There would be 2 boards, 2 sets of books, and board members can serve on both. There is a $50 annual fee for each designation. In comparing advantages of both designations, Brain noted the scale of money directed to advocacy is a factor., typically about a third. Richard noted that we are now approaching 35%. Michal noted donations could be directed to advocacy group, with proceeds from the bRamble directed to the 501(c)7. Gary noted our goal is to grow area biking, both advocacy and education, and Michael noted Gears is now more than a social club.
There was some discussion of joining an outside group for advocacy purposes, but Brian noted loss of control factors, as well as identity. Sue proposed a subcommittee lay out the pros and cons of each path, as well as talk with Salem and other area clubs for information on their designations. Jay noted we cannot let this slide if we are seeking grants and donations, and Richard stated we have missed some donations because we are not a tax exempt group.
NEWSLETTER SHOP REVIEWS: Following a recent article about a local bike shop in our newsletter, a question of favoritism was raised by another shop owner. Jay proposed a questionnaire be sent to shops, which Paul will create and email to board members.
VEER - Bike night at Movies: Friday, May 22nd at the UofO Eric predicts a low attendance, moves proceeds be directed to the Outdoor Program which Richard seconded, and the motion passed.
RIDE OF SILENCE: Wednesday, May 21nd with Dwight Collins in charge, begins at Cuthbert Amphitheater. Richard described a new route, giving increased visibility and honoring David Minor. Speakers will be Congressman P. DeFazio, and the mother of a child recently killed. Dwight has said he doesn’t want to focus only on recent deaths.
WEST EUGENE COLLABORATIVE: Sue noted this formed out of the ashes of the WEPW, is a broad group that met over 2 years, and has produced a 45 page report available online. Its focus is traffic congestion on West 11th street, which has nonperforming business, is unsafe for both bikes & pedestrians. An input meeting will be held May 12th at the library.
OREGON BIKE SUMMIT: Paul will write an article for the newsletter
BRAMBLE: Richard reported that registrations are coming in, Registration coast is $25 until June 10th, $30 following that and $35 day of event, with $10 off for members. An ad has been placed in Outdoors Northwest, May and June issues at a cost of $485. This magazine covers Seattle and Portland areas. Richard has requested space on 50 other bike sites, received 15 positive responses.
Meeting adjourned at 9:10. Respectfully submitted, Lynda Christiansen, secretary
