Mendocino Environmental Center

October 1, 2000


The organizational structure has shifted significantly here at the MEC as we distribute the work of keeping the center open and running. The last newsletter told about the six-person Coordinator Council we've created and the developing decision-making and communication processes. In June, we eliminated a paid coordinator position, partly because our income has been short of our expenses. But there's also the satisfying realization that the position isn't needed anymore because a nonhierarchical group administrative structure is in place.

The Coordinator Council consists of Greg Bourget (public outreach), Jenny Burnstad (fiscal), Lynda McClure (peace and social justice), Chris McCormick (membership), Denny O'Brien (media/newsletter), and Alana Oldham (volunteer). Jenny and Denny are board members as well. This list can expand as people become involved and willing to make this commitment. Indeed, we are anxious to enlist more people to maintain a sufficient base of well informed, experienced administrators.

The coordinator positions are unpaid, as is the Board of Directors. Some council members are paid for other necessary operational tasks, such as office reception, membership database maintenance, and government reporting. The council meets weekly and maintains an ongoing communication log. The new structure and the diversity of people serving as coordinators have helped rejuvenate not only the physical space but also the energy, widening the outreach and scope of the work we can do.

The challenges of group process, open communication, and many personalities are ongoing. Yet we all agree the MEC is going in a good direction; we appreciate your feedback as well.



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Forest & River News is produced by Trees Foundation.