Policy governance®
PCC's Board of Trustees conducts its business using the Policy Governance® model, as do the boards of many cooperatives throughout the country.
In this model, the board drafts policy in four categories to direct the cooperative.
Ends policy — The board defines which human needs are to be met, for whom, and at what cost. Written with a long-term perspective, these mission-related policies embody the board's long-range vision.
| Global Ends: PCC exists to create a cooperative, sustainable environment for our members and patrons in which the natural and organic supply chains thrive. (adopted September 28, 2004) | |
| Ends-A: | PCC members and patrons will have access to high quality, healthful food that is fairly priced. (adopted November 30, 2004) |
| Ends-B: | PCC membership is a respected and valued choice. (adopted September 28, 2004) |
| Ends-C: | PCC has a local focus. (adopted September 28, 2004) |
| Ends-D: | PCC members and patrons are well educated in matters of healthful foods, healthy sustainable living, and the cooperative business model. (adopted November 30, 2004) |
| Ends-E: | An inherent part of PCC's business is the balance of economic, social and environmental responsibilities. (adopted January 25, 2005) |
As part of the mission to fulfill Ends Policies, PCC management takes positions on issues involving food and agriculture. See Issues and Education and PCC Public Policy statements.
Executive limitations — the board establishes the boundaries of acceptability within which staff methods and activities can be left to staff.
Board-staff linkage — The board clarifies the manner in which it delegates authority to staff, through the CEO, as well as how it evaluates staff performance on the ends and executive limitations policies.
Board process — The board determines its philosophy, its accountability, and specifics of its own job. The effective design of its own board processes ensures that the board will fulfill its three primary responsibilities: maintaining links to the membership, establishing the four categories of written policies, and assuring executive performance.
For further information on the Policy Governance® model, visit www.policygovernance.com, or feel free to contact the Board Administrator at 206-547-1222, ext. 126, or email: