Democratic member control is one of the internationally recognized seven cooperative principles that Hunger Mountain Co-op has enshrined in our bylaws. Unlike in publicly traded corporations, each member gets one and only one vote—precisely like a citizen in a democracy. 

You, the member-owners, elect the council to represent your interests and the Co-ops as a whole. Voting begins at the Annual Meeting on September 24 and continues through October 13. You’ll get to meet the candidates at the meeting. (Disclosure: I’m one of three candidates in an uncontested election.) 

The Annual Meeting will also feature a delicious dinner from the Co-op’s food services team, live music from 25 Strings, and a presentation from Ginny Sassaman on Gross National Happiness USA, exploring how we can make human well-being, rather than just economic activity, our bottom line. We will also officially kick off our strategic planning process, introducing the committee and consultants who will be guiding this vital work. 

Bring a friend to register to vote on September 15 

Because democratic control is also crucial outside the doors of the Co-op, Hunger Mountain Co-op and many other co-ops will participate in National Voter Registration Day on September 15. Here, the Vermont chapter of the League of Women Voters will be tabling with a voter registration drive. It’s close to the U.S. Constitution Day on September 17, and it falls on the United Nations’ International Day of Democracy. 

Vermont makes voting accessible—you can even register at the polls on Election Day. However, if you bring a friend to register with us on September 15, you may help ensure they are ready to vote in the November election.  

The Wrap 

Q: Where can you buy chicken stock in bulk?

A: Not at the co-op. Try the stock market.

—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!