The CHS Board has proposed amendments to the CHS Bylaws that would allow flexibility in timing and location of CHS Director elections. Owners are encouraged to review the proposed amendments, offer comments and contact any CHS Board member with questions.
From the CHS Board
The COVID-19 pandemic's effect on the 2020 CHS Annual Meeting pointed out the need for greater flexibility in scheduling regional caucuses and Director elections that occur at caucuses. The CHS Bylaws currently require regional caucuses to elect Directors take place at the CHS annual meeting.
Added flexibility
The proposed amendments would allow the CHS Board flexibility to schedule regional caucuses and Director elections either during the annual meeting or at other times and locations appropriate for the owners in each region. These options will help ensure that regional caucuses and Director elections can occur under any circumstances and enable more owners to participate in CHS governance.
No change to Director terms
CHS Director terms would not be affected by the proposed amendments. Regardless of when elections are held, Director three-year terms would continue to start and end at the CHS annual meeting.
More information
The Board recommends bringing the proposed amendments to a vote at the 2022 CHS Annual Meeting in December and encourages owner questions and input. Review the proposed amendments (links below) and provide input to any CHS Director or feedback@chsinc.com.
Answers to frequently asked questions about the proposed amendments
When the COVID-19 global pandemic made it impossible for us to meet in person for the 2020 CHS Annual Meeting, it became clear that our governance processes would be enhanced by providing the Board with flexibility in setting the scheduling of regional Director elections. These amendments would allow the Board to choose to continue the current scheduling of regional caucuses during our annual meeting or to schedule them at a time that ensures owners in a region can meet and exercise their voice in CHS governance.
No. The process for identifying Director candidates, declaring candidacy for seats on the CHS Board and conducting the actual elections will not change. Depending on the Board’s decision to schedule caucuses and elections for any year, the deadline for nominations – currently Sept. 1 – may need to shift. Any deadline change would be fully communicated before it takes effect.
No. These amendments will only give the CHS Board flexibility to change the location and timing of regional caucuses and Director elections if the Board determines changes are needed to ensure owner participation. The Board has no plans in place to change the current approach to holding caucuses and elections.
No. These amendments do not favor one or more regions. The governance structure and representation by region would not change. Passing the amendments would provide the Board with flexibility to adjust scheduling regional caucuses and Director elections if it makes sense for CHS owners and our governance processes. The added flexibility should encourage increased participation by owners.
As CHS continues to evolve, we will consistently review our foundational governance documents, such as our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, as part of good governance. If needed, the Board will recommend changes to reflect that evolution and CHS owners will decide whether to approve those recommendations. It’s impossible to predict how often those changes will be required, but a dynamic, vibrant organization needs its governance documents to keep pace with that growth.
Have a question or comment about the proposed amendments?
Email the CHS Board
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