The 2003 National Convention
Resolutions process is under way. This term, the Convention
Resolutions Committee will be aiming toward streamlining the
process wherever possible. Often, resolutions cut across several
areas of concern within VVA, and it seems only natural that
overlapping resolutions should be condensed into fewer, more
comprehensive mandates. Our task also includes weeding out those
current resolutions that are no longer appropriate or that
mandate goals that are not obtainable. Resolutions in this
category will be recommended for retirement.
In short, we propose that the
resolutions process be condensed and streamlined into workable,
comprehensive, and reachable objectives. However, we recognize
that familiar feel-good resolutions are important, and that they
could - and perhaps should - be addressed by our leadership as
an ongoing responsibility when the need arises.
The approved form that must be
used for submission of proposed resolutions is accessible via
http://www.vva.org/Forms/resolutions.pdf
Please keep in mind that the committee will be looking for
comprehensive and achievable proposals. Members should avoid
proposing resolutions that can be accomplished through regular
action of the Board of Directors, State Councils, or other VVA
leadership. When considering an issue, please consider this
question: Is this proposal something that VVA already should be
doing, and if so, can a request or demand to the appropriate
level of VVA leadership get the job done?
If the answer is "yes," why not use that avenue? Remember, the
convention is not your only opportunity to offer suggestions or
to address issues that are important to you. Convention
resolutions should only be used for establishing the most
important priorities for all of our members and for the overall
mission of VVA.
Proposed resolutions will be
reviewed upon receipt by the Resolutions Committee. If the
resolution form is found to be complete, it will be assigned to
the responsible committee(s) or task force(s) and assigned a
number. An acknowledgment letter will be mailed to the
resolutions author. In future correspondence, reference should
be made to the proposed resolution by its title and number. Any
resolution form that is not completed properly will be returned.
The deadline to return the properly completed resolution form is
March 31, 2003.
All proposed resolutions should
be reviewed by the appropriate committees and task forces prior
to the April 2003 Board of Directors meeting in Silver Spring.
Proposed resolutions in their final form will then be made
available to delegates prior to the convention. Each committee
or task force will address submitted resolutions at convention
hearings and again as each resolution is presented to the
delegates in general session.
We hope to provide the delegates
with a smooth and efficient resolutions process, while insuring
that delegates can voice and send their most important
priorities to our leaders.