AODME By-laws changes...

As the members of the AODME know, an update to the organization's by-laws are now out to the membership for a vote.  This is the culmination of a two year process that is aimed at aligning the by-laws of the AODME with the realities that currently exist in OGME.

The key changes are:

1. The executive committee terms move from two to one year and the position of immediate past president is added.  This reflects a desire to have more members be involved in the executive leadership of the organization.  Currently, there are 5 positions (Secretary, Treasurer, President-elect, President and Past-president) with two year terms.  This limits the elections to odd numbered years and results in 10 years on the executive committee.  The change would have a 6 member executive committee with yearly elections and 6 years on the committee.  The addition of immediate past president (or past president depending on one's perspective) was sought to lend institutional memory to the board.
2. Removal of 4 sub-category (OPTI, COM, Specialty College and Hospital) trustees.  These positions have been difficult to define since their inception and do not serve a constituency.
3. The addition of OPTI Council Appointed Trustees.  As has been noted at the last several meetings, the AODME, the AODME is seeking to work with OPTIs and the DMEs that comprise OPTIs to provide a advocacy and educational voice for this significant cog in the OGME machine.  This change recognizes that DMEs are aligned as much with OPTIs as they are with regions and allows for a blend of leadership.  OPTI Council Appointed Trustees must maintain the same membership requirements as regional trustees.
4. Changes to terms of of trustees from three to two years.  The overall limit would remain 6 years.  This change also allows more members to have the opportunity to be members of the board.
5. Re-distribution of the AODME's regions to represent the current make-up of OGME.
6. Codification of governance items such as quorums, committees and special meetings.  In each case, the bar was set to allow inclusion and representative participation.

Many members worked hard to bring this to fruition.  This includes both members of the executive committee, board and rank and file members from all regions and backgrounds.  This process began in 2009 and there have been multiple avenues for comment and evolution.  This includes, but is not limited to:

• Both the 2010 and 2011 Annual meetings
• Email appeals in the Fall of 2010 and 2011
• Multiple surveys of membership

I set a goal to move the organization forward.  I do not expect all to agree on what this means.  I do expect to be transparent and build consensus.  I am comfortable that we have accomplished both with these proposed changes.

Part of this goal is a up or down vote on the by-laws change.  It is time to fish or cut bait.  While no proposal will be perfect, this is a good, team approach.  Regardless of your view, it is important to participate in this endeavor.  I appreciate the collegial and professional debate.