[sac-board] Re: SAC Constitution

>  > What properties does the club own?
>>
>>  Where can one find a list?
>>
>>  What are the rules/procedures for using/checking out items?
>>
>>  Jeff
>
>Jeff,
>
>The specific items to which they are referring are the slide projector,
>screen, it's assorted cables, etc.  Also the red barricade lights for
>guiding people into star parties.  The big truck comes in to make
>transporting the slide projector screen easier.  As far as a list, I don't
>have one, but I'd bet that most of our own private libraries and private
>stock of astro goodies far, far exceeds what the club has.  I beleive that
>the biggest asset SAC has is the 6" scope that Jack Jones happily put
>together on a shoestring.  (It's kinda like bowling shoes....you could steal
>it, but why?)
>
>Thad

Thanks to those who replied.

First, I'm not talking about anyone stealing anything.

Properties of the club are club assets. They belong to the club, no 
the board members and no individual. The more property, the more 
valuable (financially) the club.

I recommend a more structured way of handling the properties.

Why?

1. They are worth money. If the club is in a bind, a vote to sell 
some items could be made.

2. Items that can be checked out should have a return policy and 
should be so stated. How is one to know what to check out (magazine, 
books, charts, etc.) if there is no published list? I'm sure few 
people ask, probably because they don't know what is available.

3. I'm sure many members might have items they would consider 
donating to the club. I know I do. However, if the items just end up 
in someone's garage and are not accessible and accountable via the 
club, the thought of donation becomes less favorable.

4. If some one has a particular need, a problem or whatever, and the 
club has an item that will help, then the member could benefit from 
borrowing the item. But that is worthless if noone knows what is 
available or what the procedure is and rules for borrowing. While I 
do not think anyone is dishonest, if I were to borrow the club scope, 
I may just take it to my remote observing site and use as I wish and 
return it when someone asks about or never if noone ever asks. No, I 
have no intention of that (I have a half a dozen scopes), but that 
could happen with someone.

I envision a list of assets/property items on the club web site with 
information on their fair market value. Included on the site would be 
information about if they are available for borrowing and how to go 
about it, plus what the rules are (responsibility for loss or damage, 
length of borrowing, membership requirements. etc.). The Property 
Director does not need to bring items to a meeting unless there is a 
specific request or need and prior arrangements made. Borrowers 
should contact the Property Director to arrange the borrowing.

As far as private libraries and observatories go, I agree, most 
(certainly mine) most likely far exceed what he club has or ever will 
have. However, that is not the point. Many people join SAC because 
they are new to astronomy. SAC resources could be very important to 
them.

I hope the new board will seriously consider these comments and suggestions.

Jeff


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