The full Strategic Planning Committee met for the first time on May 20. Our opening conversations focused on getting to know one another, establishing how we’ll collaborate, and outlining our process for selecting a consultant to facilitate the work. The Co-op has received six proposals from qualified consultant teams, and we’re moving with deliberate speed to choose the best partner for this next chapter. 

As we approach capacity in our current space, navigate a packed parking lot, and explore the possibilities of our newly purchased adjacent property, we’re also seeing increased interest from community partners and businesses. This planning process is our opportunity to thoughtfully align priorities, strengthen our long-term resilience, and ensure the Co-op continues to reflect the values and needs of the community that sustains it. 

We’re committed to making this work transparent and responsive to members. In the coming weeks, we’ll share details on how you can participate. Watch for announcements in the newsletter, around the store, and on our website. 

Strategic planning can sometimes feel abstract, but it’s deeply personal: it’s about the food we share, the jobs we sustain, and the future we’re building together. Thank you for your trust as we navigate this important work. I welcome your questions by email or ask at the next Co-op Connects, on June 12.  

Ask us anything at the next Co-op Connects on Friday, June 12, 12:00 – 1:00 pm 

General Manager Mary Mullally and I arrived at the May 11 Co-op Connects to find that a member-owner had pulled up a chair in front of the demo station and was waiting to share his ideas for the Co-op. He told us his member number—it was in the low two digits, so he’s been with the Co-op a long time. He presented us with a sheet of paper detailing food items, mostly staples, that he encouraged us to sell at a reduced markup. Some of the items are already discounted through our Co-op Basics program, currently boasting nearly 270 items, including loss leaders like $3.99 eggs. Mary promised to chat with her team about it and get back to him about others on the list. 

We love engagement like that! Whether you stumble across a Co-op Connects when you’re shopping, or you see a notice of one and come especially to talk to us, we enjoy the almost-monthly sessions connecting with customers. The next “ask us anything” Co-op Connects session is Friday, June 12, 12:00 – 1:00 pm. Please join Mary, me, and possibly another council member to chat about the past, present, or future of the co-op – or anything else on your mind.  

Remembering Bertil Agell 

Former council member Bertil Agell died in March, according to his obituary in the Times Argus. He served on the council during my earlier stint, in the mid-teens, and I appreciated his good humor and business perspective. His background included entrepreneurship and helping businesses (e.g., as director of the Central Vermont Economic Development Corporation), and he kept us grounded in the economic realities of running a grocery store. (Thanks to Steven Farnham for calling my attention to the obituary.) 

The Wrap 

Summer sports are starting or coming right up, and I’m imagining our chicken friends participating. (Playing sports gives them something to do other than forever crossing the road.)  

Q: How do hens cheer for their team?

A: They egg them on. 

—Carl Etnier, Council President

Do you have any questions or comments about the council? Do you know any jokes even faintly related to food and/or co-ops? Please email them to me!