ARTICLE 5 – DISTRICT BRANCHES


1. It is the policy of Air Canada Pionairs to encourage and promote the formation of local districts in area where a sufficient number of members reside to support local activities on an organized basis. Local Districts of Air Canada Pionairs shall conform to the by-laws of the parent organization. In addition, guidelines will be produced and maintained by the Executive Board prescribing procedures and directives commonly applicable to all districts.

2. The initiative to establish a new District will involve both local members and the Executive Board. Subject to meeting conditions outlined in paragraph 1, The President with the approval of the Executive Board, will assist the membership, as appropriate, in setting up a local organization.

3. The District organization will depend to some extent on the number of members residing in the area to be served. However, it is desirable to elect or appoint a District Director, Assistant Director, Secretary and Treasurer. The assistant Director may, subject to concurrence of local members, plan to succeed the serving Director upon expiry of the term of
office of the incumbent. The term of office for a District Director will normally be two years; however, this may be extended to a maximum of two terms. When appropriate, election or appointment of a new Director should occur during mid-term of the Executive Board. After the Directors’ terms have ended, they will act as Past Directors to provide continuity in the conduct of the affairs of the District Board and act as consultants. They will be considered members of the District Executive Boards.

4. District Directors shall convene a meeting of local members at least twice annually, once during spring and once during fall. Notice of such meetings shall be given at least 30 days in advance, by mail or telephone, subject to local circumstances. All paid up local members in attendance have the right to vote on any matter presented to a District Meeting provided the quorum, as previously established locally is present.

5. The District Director shall be responsible to initiate arrangements for local business meetings and such other social or activity functions as practical and desirable. Where appropriate, business meetings may be held in conjunction with a luncheon or dinner. The district director shall also arrange local telephone committees for the purpose of communicating with members on a variety of matters including illness and bereavement. District Directors shall liaise closely with the Executive Board, including advice and recommendations on local and national matters. District Directors will be required to submit a written report on their previous year’s activities at annual meetings of the Board of Directors.

6. Local District functions will be organized on a non-profit basis and will normally be without subsidy. Members attending will absorb costs including food and beverages, room or facility rental, etc. District Directors may assess nominal additional charges to cover reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. Such expenses will be built into the individual cost to participate in the event.

7. When for any reason a District Director is not performing satisfactorily in directing affairs of a local District, the incumbent may be removed from office by majority vote of local members in attendance at a regular local meeting. Alternatively, such action may be taken by a two-thirds majority vote of the Executive board, following investigation of concerns submitted by local District members.