Abilene Chamber of Commerce

“The ACOC Board is a large board of 39 voting members and 12 non-voting members who all have the common goal of bettering the community for all businesses and citizens. In a community of approximately 117,000, it is inherent that there may be business or family relationships. Greg Blair and Dennis ODell are employed by the same employer. Patty Fuentes and David Marshall Morris are also employed by the same employer. Beverly Guthrie and Russell Guthrie are related.”

“The ACOC is a membership organization in which any legal entity having an interest in ACOCs mission statement may apply for membership. Applications are in writing and aproved by the Board of Directors. Membership continues upon payment of regularly scheduled investments.”

“The Chair appoints a Nominating Committee and the membership is notified that nominations are being accepted for upcoming vacancies. Nominees must be active members in good standing. The Nominating Committee then presents a proposed slate to the President who notifies the membership of the nominees. Additionally candidates may be nominated by petition signed by at least twenty-five members in good standing. If no petition is filed within the prescribed time period, the nominations are closed and the nominated slate of directors are declared elected by the Board of Directors. If a valid petition is filed, the Board votes on the nominees by written ballot with the candidates receiving the greatest number of votes being elected.”

“Special meetings of the membership may be called by the Chair at any time or upon petition in writing by any 10% of the existing members in good standing. Notice of special meetings of the membershp shall be sent to each member at least 5 days prior to such meetings.”

“The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors authorized the officers of the Organization (Chair, Chair-Elect, Secretary/Treasurer, Past-Chair, and President) to review and approve the Form 990 before submission to the Internal Revenue Service.”

“Each new board member is asked to sign a copy of the Conflict of Interest Policy prior to beginning his/her term on the Board and employees are required to sign a copy upon hiring. Annual updates are not required, but are intended for the duration of service as a Board member or employment. Prior to any votes on resources or policies which could lead to a conflict of interest, Board members are asked if they have a conflict with any of the financial decisions, policies, or issues, and therefore, need to abstain from voting.”

“The Board of Directors employs the President and fixes consideration of employment. An annual evaluation, salary and benefits review and adjustments for the President are conducted by the Chair, Chair Elect, and Past Chair.”

“The President assigns the duties and fixes salaries for all employees of the Chamber and its affiliates in accordance with policies approved by the Board of Directors. Performance and budgetary constraints are considered in any salary and benefit adjustments.”

“The Abilene Chamber of Commerce will make any of these documents available to the public and its members upon request. Requests are referred to the Vice President of Administration who is responsible for ensuring such requests are answered in a timely manner.”

“Professional Services $278,130Sculptor, Artist, and Performer Fees $185,329Speakers and Entertainment $22,820”

“Part VI, Section A, Line 1a - Under the bylaws of the ACOC, the Executive Committee acts for and on behalf of the Board of Directors when the Board is not in session, but is accountable to the Board for its actions. The Executive Committee is comprised of the Officers of the Organization, the chair of all affiliates and standing committees, and three members at large from the Board. Generally the Executive Committee meets six times a year and the Board meets six times per year.”