The board has approved a revision to our bylaws to achieve several purposes:
1) To include a nepotism policy required by the State.
2) Increase operational flexibility
3) Align financial oversight and roles with the current realities of
how PCMG must work with UA Extension Service.
We will hold an electronic vote after the June monthly meeting to
ensure better participation.
If you have any questions please email any member of the Executive Board.
A summary of the significant changes and rationale are:
Consolidated Purpose: Article II transitions from three detailed sections to a concise “Purpose” statement focused on training volunteers and community horticulture. This was done to make it less legalistic and approachable.
Operational Flexibility: Section deadlines for reporting hours and paying dues have been changed from specific calendar dates (Dec 31 and May 1) to “dates specified by the state/board,” allowing for annual adjustments without requiring bylaw amendments. This puts in writing what happens on occasion.
Structural Officer Realignment: The Assistant Treasurer position has been removed. In its place, the Record Keeping Committee Chair is now a designated board. The Assistant Treasurer’s job was greatly reduced when UAEX took over control of all deposits and disbursements.
Board-Led Nominating Committee: The Nominating Committee composition shifted from the Past President plus three appointed members to a group consisting of the current President, 1st VP, 2nd VP, and the Past President as chair. Needed to put in writing how things work.
Nepotism Policy: A comprehensive new section defines “family member” and prohibits relatives from serving on the Executive Board simultaneously to avoid potential conflicts of interest. This is required by the Extension Service. This was required by UAEX.
Changed Officer Terms: To support organizational continuity, the typical term for the Treasurer, Secretary, and Record Keeping Chair has been increased to four years. This recognizes that these positions can offer continuity and can be hard to fill.
Financial Oversight: Responsibility for preparing the annual budget has moved from a separate Budget Committee directly to the Treasurer. In recent years there has not been a Budget Committee, and the budget has been handled by the Treasurer.
Digital Modernization: The amendments section now explicitly authorizes electronic voting and clarifies that electronic notifications satisfy the 30-day written notice requirement. Given the drop in attendance at the monthly meetings and time constraints, this seems more democratic than the current process.
Please reach out to these board members if you have questions: Michele Wasson, Melody Parsley, Andrew Kessel or Harold Abbey.
2026 Revised Bylaws here, and 2015 version is below.