SNA June Notes and July Plans

Childswork, Rotary, Endorsement Policy

Several neighbors who live close to St. Stephen Catholic Church discussed the church’s decision to evict Childswork Learning Center, which was announced via a flyer. Expressing their high regard for Childswork, these neighbors sought assistance from SNA in contacting the church leadership. Several Board members will follow up. Outreach to churches and other neighborhood organizations is an important aspect of the SNA mission.

Christie Quinn, from the Southeast Portland Rotary Club, talked about opportunities to partner with SNA. The Rotary has a great tradition, especially in furthering education. I hope that we can cook something up.

The Board discussed creating a more formal policy regarding how and what to endorse. Various neighbors and organizations often ask the SNA to endorse a policy or action. Sometimes it involves a complex issue and/or a controversial position. SNA has no legal authority but we would like our endorsements to be both thoughtful and credible. There seemed to be agreement that the SNA should only consider issues directly relevant to the neighborhood, proposals should be in writing, and discussion should span at least two general meetings. There is some disagreement regarding the extent to which endorsements should reflect general neighborhood opinion and controversial topics. We would love to hear your thoughts.

Reminder: The July 8th Board meeting will largely be taken up with the annual Board Election. We will meet at 7 p.m. outside SE Uplift (3534 SE Main) both masked and physically distanced. Our Zoom meetings will resume in August.

SNA Annual Board Election July 8th [Reminder]

The Annual Election for SNA Board members will be held July 8, 2021 at 7 p.m. Like last year, we will be outside SE Uplift (3534 SE Main St.), both masked and physically distanced. Board terms are 2 years, with about half the seats open each year. Five of the nine Board seats are open and at least one current Board member is not pursuing reelection.

Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age or older who is either: 1) a legal resident of Sunnyside, 2) an owner of real property within Sunnyside, or 3) the designated representative of a business, school, church, or non-profit in Sunnyside. All members can vote and serve as Board members. Members may declare their own candidacy or be nominated by another member. Those that declare or accept nomination by June 10ththe meeting prior to the annual meetingwill be announced to the membership by the Board of Directors. Nominations can be made from the floor at the Annual meeting provided that the nominee is a member and is willing to serve if elected. You have to be present at the Annual meeting to vote (secret paper ballot) but need not be present to be elected. Candidates will briefly introduce themselves before the vote.

Dave Boush