Recently we've heard a lot about corporate governance and transparency of information. Those issues apply not only to big public corporations but also to all enterprises, including Temple Sholom. The Board members are always getting questions about how Temple Sholom operates, who has responsibility for different events and activities, how to join committees, who can I give my feedback to (of course), etc. This is the first in a series of columns that will attempt to explain how the Temple operates. The most important thing to remember is that this Temple must be responsive to the needs of its members - YOU! If you have questions suggestions, please contact Nilene Chase.

Our Temple is governed by its Constitution and By-laws. The last time they were completely amended was more than ten years ago but from time to time we amend certain provisions. The Constitution and By-laws are available in the Temple Office for any member to read. The Constitution and By-laws are currently being reviewed with the intention of bringing the Temple into the 21st century. The Committee responsible for proposing revisions consists of Neal Litinger, Nilene Chase and several of the Past Presidents of the congregation. Once the Committee approves the proposed revisions, they will be presented (first to the Board of Trustees) and then to the entire congregation for approval.

The Constitution and By-laws cover matters such as (1) who is a member; (2) who can vote and procedures for nominations, elections and voting; (3) the roles of the Rabbi and the Cantor; (4) the Board of Trustees - including how many members and how it operates; (5) officers and their responsibilities; (6) committees and their responsibilities; and (7) certain financial and administrative matters. Not all committees created by the Constitution and By-laws are active at any specific moment.

The Constitution requires two general meetings of the congregation. The first is in winter at which the Temple's financial statements for its last fiscal year (which ends in August) are presented. The other is in May when a slate of trustees and officers and a budget are presented for approval. In addition, the congregation elects the members of the School Committee. At general meetings, or at any special congregational meeting called for that purpose, other matters can be presented to the congregation; for example, consideration of the contracts of our professionals and whether to undertake a capital campaign and major renovations. Minutes of congregational meetings are available in the Temple Office.