Are members entitled to view receipts, contracts, etc of purchases approved by membership?

[Guest Guest]

Our organization voted to approve a controversial purchase of goods and services. The BOD has refused to answer certain questions about the services which were purchased.

(1) How can members force the BOD to answer these questions?

(2) If the questions put in a letter to the BOD which is then mailed to the BOD via certified mail, and the BOD refuses to answer the questions contained in the letter, does that give members legal standing to bring legal action against the BOD?

Greatly appreciate any answers, directives, or directions this forum might provide me.

[Chris Harrison]

1) Absent some applicable rule or law the General Membership can by adopting a motion order the Board to answer the questions. If the Board refuses to do what was ordered demand that they show you some rule that gives them the right to refuse. Also, see FAQ #20 for possible disciplinary options.

2) Questions of law being beyond this forum's scope you will need to ask a lawyer. But again see FAQ #20.

[jstackpo]

You may be able, collectively (needs a 2/3 vote), to get to your answers by requiring the Board's minutes be read to the assembly. See p. 487, l. 13 ff.

[Guest Guest]

You may be able, collectively (needs a 2/3 vote), to get to your answers by requiring the Board's minutes be read to the assembly. See p. 487, l. 13 ff.

The vote to purchase the goods and services was made by the general membership, not the Board. But your answer does raise another question for me. What's the procedure for a member to request a copy of minutes of a general meeting? Thank you.

[jstackpo]

Set up a convenient appointment with the secretary to inspect them -- p. 460, l. 13 ff. Getting "copies" as such are not mentioned in RONR.