Gates Mills Land Conservancy

“The Conservancy has two classes of Members which are Resident Members and Regular Members. Resident Members must be residents of the Village of Gates Mills who are qualified to vote in its elections and who have paid the annual dues. Resident Members are entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of the Members such as a vote to elect ten of the directors of the Board of Directors, which is the governing body of the organization. Regular Members need not be voters or residents of Gates Mills. Provided Regular Members have paid the annual dues and met any other membership requirements established by the Board of Trustees, they are entitlted to all the privileges and rights accorded Resident Members except the right to vote.”

“Election of Members and Their RightsThe Conservancy Board of Directors consists of fifteen village citizens; ten directors are elected by the membership and five directors are appointed by the Mayor of Gates Mills. Directors shall hold office for four years.”

“The Conservancy has governance decisions that are to be approved by the Resident Members. The Resident Members governance decisions include electing the Directors of the governing body or the affirmative vote of a majority of all the Resident Members to adopt a resolution of dissolution.”

“Part VI, Line 11b - Organizations Process to Review Form 990The Organizationss Form 990 is reviewed by the Board of Directors prior to submission to the Internal Revenue Service.”

“Part VI, Line 12c - Enforcement of Conflict PolicyAnnually, each member of a committee with board delegated powers will sign a statement which affirms that such person has read, understands and has agreed to comply with the policy. Also, each member understands that the Organization is a charitable organization and it must engage in activities which accomplish its tax-exempt purposes.”

“Part VI, Line 19 - Governing Documents Disclosure ExplanationThe financial information is included in this tax return which is a public document. The Conservancy presents semi-annual reports to the Gates Mills Village Council which includes financial statements. The conflict of interest and other parts of the governing documents are also described in this tax return which is a public document.”