16-Mar-2005 minutes

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Minutes of Special General Meeting, March 16, 2005, Bowen Park Activity Room #1

Present- Dave Beer (acting chair for this meeting), Graham Shuttleworth, Jim Kirby, Barbara Henoch, John Van Beek, James Young, Bob Goerzen, Don Oliver, Dean Gaudry, Russ Thomson, Lyse Godbout, Chad Henderson, Keith Brown, Gay Cunningham

Meeting called to order 7:00 pm

Discussion around the purpose of the GNCC- after lengthy discussion it was agreed that the mandate of the GNCC is valid and appears to represent what members would like to see from the organization. A mention of promotion of healthy lifestyle/ healthy environment could be included, but this is inferred in existing statements anyway. Some discussion around the small amount of cycling education and training that has in fact been overseen by the GNCC in recent years, and the question as to how many regular cycle commuters in Nanaimo know about or recognize the GNCC. Some observations that GNCC has a low profile amongst most Nanaimo cyclists. Thanks to Dean Gaudry and Chad Henderson for giving background as to past achievements of the GNCC around bike lanes, bicycle traffic light markings, E&N trail promotion. These past successes tended to rally the membership, albeit it was normally a "small" group of dedicated members leading these initiatives. Dean suggested an example of a movement that might have more universal appeal amongst present and potential members would be the advancement of a lower island rail trail. Bob Goerzen and James Young also offered background information and views on this issue.

Lyse gave background into the "One Tonne Challenge" grant and poster from 2004. Should involve distributing a poster that the GNCC developed in such places as bus shelters, rec centers, etc. Could this be done with 2005 Commuter Challenge activities? Although this may be a worthy endeavor, no decision was made as we need the manpower to do this.

Discussion around Bike Week and Commuter Challenge for 2005. Barbara Henoch has been contracted to oversee this initiative for 2005. A percieved lack of enthusiasm and volunteers seems to cloud the potential for a successful outcome. In many cities where a commuter challenge is held, the local authorities carry this out, rather than donating funds to a non-profit cycling group as has been done in Nanaimo in recent years. Most discussion, however, centered around what appears to be an inordinate amount of time and effort to organize a bike week/commuter challenge that yields questionable benefits.

John Van Beek entered a motion to cancel bike week for 2005. Voted 6 to 1 in favour. Barbara was paid $400 for her work to date. Organizations donating funds will have money returned with thanks, those considering donating will be advised of this change of plans.

Discussion involving GNCC board of directors and chair vacancy. Dave Beer and Barbara Henoch agreed to co-chair. There are now four board members, require one more. (Secretary's note: Garth Rustand has agreed to remain on the board...there are now five members. March 20/05).

John Van Beek has been re-appointed as the GNCC representative for the BC Cycling Coalition.

Some discussion involving the continuation of the Spokelore, however due to the lateness of the evening this was postponed until the next board meeting. The concensus of those who offered opinions was that a newsletter that comes out quarterly would be satisfactory.

Meeting adjourned 9:20 pm.

Next board meeting to be held April 20/05, location to be determined.

Jim Kirby, Secretary GNCC

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Last updated: March 23, 2005.