Nov 5 2005 Approved Amendments

2003 HTCI Constitution By-Laws to be Amended	2005 Amendments (From Nov 5, 2005 General Body Meeting)
VII. Finance and Remunerations All services performed by members to HTCI shall be done on a voluntary basis. Any exceptions to this shall be only with prior approval of the Board of Volunteers. Any unbudgeted payment exceeding $250.00 shall require prior approval of the Board of Volunteers.	VII. Finance and Remunerations  Other than the Temple employee services, all services performed by the members of the Temple shall be done on a voluntary basis. Any exceptions to this shall be only with prior approval of the Board. Any payment over $250 but less than $5000 shall require prior approval by the Chairperson. Expenses over $5000 will have to be approved by the Board. The financial and balance sheet information will be regularly posted on the Temple website.
IX. Governing Body Procedure and Structure 1.The governing body of HTCI shall be called The Board of Volunteers hereafter called the Board. Affairs of HTCI will be managed by the Board. 2.The Board shall consist of Founding  Patrons plus all Committee Chairs. The Committee Chairs are selected by the Board based on their demonstrated outstanding volunteerism and time commitment to Committee activities. The nominations are approved by the Board and the election is ratified by the General Body. General Assembly  .      3.    Notice of General Body Meetings: The Board of Volunteersshall conduct the annual General Body Meeting every year during the “Ramanavami” event of HTCI. A.      Announcement of the General Body Meeting and proposed amendments approved by the Board of Volunteers shall be posted at HTCI communicated via postal mail and email to membership not less than 15 days nor more than 45 days prior to the meeting date..      B.  For passing resolutions, a minimum of one-tenth of voting members must be present at a General Body Meeting and a simple majority of votes shall carry the motion.	IX. Governing Body Procedure and Structure 1. The governing body of HTCI shall be called The Board of Volunteers hereafter called the Board. Affairs of HTCIwill be managed by the Board. 2. The Board shall consist of several elected members plus Founding and Sustaining Patrons. The elected members are elected to chair the various Temple committees such as Pooja, Cultural, Fundraising, Facility Maintenance, Youth activities and Annadata Programs. The Committee Chairs are selected by the Board based on their demonstrated outstanding volunteerism and time commitment to Committee activities. The nominations are approved by the Board and the election is ratified by the General Body. General Assembly       3.    Notice of General Body Meetings: The Board of Volunteers shall conduct the annual General Body Meeting every year during one of the major festival celebrations that draws good attendance.     A.  Announcement of the General Body Meeting and proposed amendments approved by the Board of Volunteers shall be posted at the Temple and on the Temple website, communicated via postal or email to the membership not less than 15 days nor more than 45 days prior to the meeting date. B.    For passing resolutions, a minimum of one-tenth of voting members must be present at a General Body Meeting and a simple majority of votes shall carry the motion. Approvals by the General Body can also be obtained by a documented electronic process (returned emails or documentation on a webpage).
V. Membership Qualifications and Privileges 1.    Membership: HTCI shall have three categories of membership, consisting of General Members, Patrons and Founding Patrons. A.      General Members: Any individual subscribing to the Vision and Mission of HTCI is a General Member. B.       Patrons: A person fulfilling all the Patron membership qualifications shall be a Patron member and shall be a voting member of HTCI. C.       Founding Patrons: A Founding Patron is an individual who has committed a cumulative seed donation of $35,000 or more over a seven year period as of April 29, 2000. Founding Patrons are permanent members of the Board of Volunteers of HTCI, each with one permanent vote at Board of Volunteers meetings.	V. Membership Qualifications and Privileges     1.    Membership: HTCI shall have three categories of membership, consisting of General Members, Patrons and Founding or Sustaining Patrons. A.    General Members: Any individual subscribing to the Vision and Mission of HTCI is a General Member. B.      Patrons: A person fulfilling all the Patron membership qualifications shall be a Patron member and shall be a voting member of HTCI. C.       Founding or Sustaining Patrons: A Founding or Sustaining Patron is an individual who has committed a cumulative seed donation of $35,000 or more over a seven year period. Founding or Sustaining Patrons are permanent members of the Board of Volunteers of HTCI, each with one permanent vote at Board of Volunteers meetings.

Article

 

Constitution with 2003 Amendments (in bold, slanted font)

 

Hindu Temple of Central Illinois

(Formerly called Hindu Heritage Center)

Constitution and By-Laws

PO Box 3601

4224 W. Prairie Lane

Peoria, Illinois 61612-3601

www.hinduheritage.org

Federal Identification Number 37-1323693

Incorporated in State of Illinois, March 15, 1994

File # 5772-447-1

I. Name

Name of the Organization is Hindu Temple of Central Illinois, hereafter referred to as the “Temple” or HTCI.

II. Nature and Status

1. The Temple is a not-for- profit organization under the laws of Illinois State and United States Federal Governments.
2. The Temple is an ecclesiastical corporation.
3. All State of Illinois and United States Federal Government laws shall preempt provisions mentioned herein this document.    

III. Mission

The Mission of the Temple is to preserve and promote Hindu Religion, Culture and Philosophy.

Objectives of the Temple are as follows:

1. The Temple has a facility to fulfill its mission.
2. The Temple enhances pride in Hindu Religion for present and future generations.
3. The Temple conducts Hindu religious activities.
4. The Temple provides and enhances cultural interactions
5. The Temple promotes understanding and respect for Hindu Philosophy

IV. Activities

1. The activities of the Temple are open to all.
2. All activities shall observe dignity and respect for the sanctity of the holy place consistent with Hindu philosophy and way of life.

V. Membership Qualifications and Privileges

 

.    Membership: HTCI shall have three categories of membership, consisting of General Members, Patrons and Founding Patrons.

•A.    General Members: Any individual subscribing to the Vision and Mission of HTCI  is a General Member.

•B.      Patrons: A person fulfilling all the Patron membership qualifications shall be a Patron member and shall be a voting member of HTCI.

•C.       Founding or Sustaining Patrons: A Founding Patron is an individual who has committed a cumulative seed donation of $35,000 or or more over a seven year period as of April 29, 2000. Founding Patrons are permanent members of the Board of Volunteers of HTCI, each with one permanent vote at Board of Volunteers meetings.

•2.        Patron Membership Qualifications: A Patron member of  HTCI shall;

•A.      Abide by the Vision, Mission and Objectives of HTCI

•B.      Be at least 18 years of age.

•C.    Be a resident of the United States of America.

•D.   Make annual cash contributions of a minimum of $120 per year exclusively towards the annual membership, recorded by December 31^st of the previous year. Instead, an individual making an annual contribution of a minimum of $1,000 per year exclusively towards the annual membership, recorded by December 31^st of the previous year, shall be recognized as a Pillar Patron member for the year.

•E.       Membership is on an annual basis starting from January 1 through December 31 of any calendar year.

•F.       Each Patron member is entitled to one vote at General Body Meetings.

 

•3.        Organizations and other corporations may donate but shall not exercise any rights of individual members.

•4.        Membership shall be considered a privilege for admission and to utilization of the facilities of HHC for designated activities.

•5.        Members shall have rights to use the facility for the activities approved by the board.

 

VI. Amendment of Bylaws

All requests for amendments, not originated by the Constitution Committee, shall be signed by at least two members of the Board of Volunteers and presented to the Board Chairperson.  The Board Chairperson shall refer such requests for amendments and reasons thereof to the Constitution Committee. The Constitution Committee shall draft amendment proposals. All amendments proposed by the Constitution Committee shall be presented to and debated by the Board of Volunteers, and approved by a majority vote. The Constitution Committee shall communicate in writing its proposals to the Board of Volunteers at least one week prior to the Board of Volunteers meeting. The Board approved proposed amendments shall be presented to the General Body for ratification.

 

VII. Finance and Remunerations

All services performed by members to HTCI shall be done on a voluntary basis. Any exceptions to this shall be only with prior approval of the Board of Volunteers. Any unbudgeted payment exceeding $250.00 shall require prior approval of the Board of  Volunteers.

VIII. Interpretations

If a conflict arises in the interpretation of these by-laws, then the ambiguity shall be resolved in the best interest of HTCI and not of any individual.

.

IX. Governing Body

Procedure and Structure

1. The governing body of HTCI shall be called The Board of Volunteers hereafter called the Board.
   Affairs of HTCI will be managed by the Board.
2. The Board shall consist of Founding Patrons plus all Committee Chairs. The Committee Chairs are selected by the Board based on their demonstrated outstanding volunteerism and time commitment to Committee activities. The nominations are approved by the Board and the election is ratified by the General Body.

3. All Patrons shall have eligibility to serve on the Board.

   An election shall be convened by the Board prior to the end of the term for replacement of one or more of its outgoing Committee Chairs.
4. All Committee Chairs shall be eligible for reelection.
5. The term of each of the Committee Chairs shall be for three years. 
6. All designations of responsibilities shall be done by the popular consent of the Board with one restriction: Chairperson’s position can be designated only to the member who has served at least one year in the capacity of a Board member.
7. A mid-term vacancy in any of the Committee Chairs can be filled by the Board by appointment to serve out the balance of the term.
8. A Board member, irrespective of his or her tenure can be removed by a majority vote of the General Body. 
9.  All designations of responsibilities shall be done by the popular consent of the board.
10. • The outgoing chairman shall be available as advisor for the board for the following year.
11. The ex-officio chairman would normally not vote in a board meeting. However, in special circumstances, where a meeting is called and an even number of members are present, the previous year’s retired chairman’s vote may be used to break a tie.
12. A mid term vacancy on the board resulting from any reason may be filled by the Board, by appointment until the following election.

Responsibilities of the Board

The Board, in addition to having overall responsibility for the smooth running of the Temple, shall be responsible for the following:

1. Selecting, nominating and facilitating electing Committee Chairs.
2. Appointing a Nominating Committee, if need be, once a year to develop nominations for the vacant Committee Chairs.
3. Ongoing communications by postal or email and on the website.
4. Maintaining activities, schedules and accounts on the Temple website to ensure open sharing of information. 
5. Making operating results available.
6. Engage a qualified Accountant to audit the accounts of the Temple.  

General Assembly  

     1.   General assembly shall be composed of members only as defined in the by-   laws.

•     2.   The general assembly can be called by the board at its discretion or by a signed request of 10% of the membership.

•     3.    Notice of General Body Meetings: The Board of Volunteers shall conduct the annual General Body Meeting every year during the “Ramanavami” event of HTCI. 

•A.      Announcement of the General Body Meeting and proposed amendments approved by the Board of Volunteers shall be posted at HTCI communicated via postal mail and email to membership not less than 15 days nor more than 45 days prior to the meeting date.

•B.       For passing resolutions, a minimum of one-tenth of voting members must be present at a General Body Meeting and a simple majority of votes shall carry the motion.

•C.       The Board of Volunteers can call a special General Body Meeting following the above procedure

X. Dissolution

In the event of dissolution of the Temple, the Board shall after paying or making provisions for the payment of all the liabilities, dispose of all the assets of the  Temple exclusively for the purpose of the organization in such a manner or to other organizations operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes as shall at the time qualify as a tax exempt organization under section 501 © (3) of the Internal Revenue Code or the corresponding provision of any future IRS code. The Temple shall not be dissolved except by two-thirds majority vote of the General Body who shall also determine the disposition of the assets.     -----------------------------7d519acd0294 Content-Disposition: form-data; name="image"; filename="" Content-Type: application/octet-stream

HTCI Constitution with 2002 Amendment

 

HTCI Constitution with 2002 Amendments in slanted, bold font

 

 

Hindu Heritage Center, Inc.

PO Box # 3601

Peoria, IL 61612-3601

Federal Identification Number 37-1323693

Incorporated in State of Illinois, March 15, 1994

• File # 5772-447-1

I. Name

Name of the organization shall be Hindu Heritage Center, hereafter referred to as “HHC”.

II. Nature and Status

• •1.        HHC shall be a not-for-profit organization under laws of state of Illinois and United States Federal Government. .

•2.        HHC will be an ecclesiastical corporation.

•3.        All state of Illinois and United States Federal Government laws shall preempt provisions mentioned herein this document.

III. Mission

• The mission of HHC is to preserve and promote the Hindu religion culture and philosophy.

Objective of HHC will be as follows:

• •1.        HHC will provide a facility to fulfill it’s mission
• •2.        HHC will strive to enhance pride in Hindu identity for present and future generations.
• •3.        HHC will engage in Hindu religious activities.
• •4.        HHC will enhance Hindu cultural interactions
• •5.        HHC will promote understanding, studies and respect for Hindu philosophy

 IV. Activities

• •1.        The activities of HHC will be open to all.
• •2.        All activities shall be in keeping with the dignity and respect for the sanctity of the holy place according to Hindu tradition.

V. Membership Qualifications and Privileges

•1.       Membership: HHC shall have three categories of membership, consisting of General Members, Patrons and Founding Patrons.

•A.      General Members: Any individual subscribing to the Vision and Mission of HHC is a General Member.

•B.       Patrons: A person fulfilling all the Patron membership qualifications shall be a Patron member and shall be a voting member of HHC.

•C.       Founding Patrons: A Founding Patron is an individual who has committed a cumulative seed donation of $35,000 or more over a seven year period as of April 29, 2000. Founding Patrons are permanent members of the Board of Trustees of HHC, each with one permanent vote at Board of Trustees meetings.

•2.        Patron Membership Qualifications: A Patron member of HHC shall;

•A.      Abide by the Vision, Mission and Objectives of HHC.

•B. Be at least 18 years of age.

•C. Be a resident of the United States of America.

•D.Make annual cash contributions of a minimum of $120 per year exclusively towards the annual membership, recorded by December 31^st of the previous year. Instead, an individual making an annual contribution of a minimum of $1,000 per year exclusively towards the annual membership, recorded by December 31^st of the previous year, shall be recognized as a Pillar Patron member for the year.

•E.       Membership is on an annual basis starting from January 1 through December 31 of any calendar year.

•F.       Each Patron member is entitled to one vote at General Body Meetings.

•3.        Organizations and other corporations may donate but shall not exercise any rights of individual members.

•4.        Membership shall be considered a privilege for admission and to utilization of the facilities of HHC for designated activities.

•5.        Members shall have rights to use the facility for the activities approved by the board.

VI. Financial Policy

VII Amendment of Bylaws

All requests for amendments, not originated by the Constitution Committee, shall be signed by at least two members of the Board of Trustees and presented to the Board Chairperson.  The Board Chairperson shall refer such requests for amendments and reasons thereof to the Constitution Committee. The Constitution Committee shall draft amendment proposals. All amendments proposed by the Constitution Committee shall be presented to and debated by the Board of Trustees, and approved by a majority vote. The Constitution Committee shall communicate in writing its proposals to the Board of Trustees at least one week prior to the Board of Trustees meeting. The Board approved proposed amendments shall be presented to the General Body for ratification.

VIII. Finance and Remuneration’s

All services performed by members to HHC shall be done on a voluntary basis. Any exceptions to this shall be only with prior approval of the Board of Trustees.

Any unbudgeted payment exceeding $250.00 shall require prior approval of the Board of Trustees.

IX. Interpretations

If a conflict arises in the interpretation of these by-laws, then the ambiguity shall be resolved in the best interest of HHC and not of any individual.

X. Governing Body

Procedure and Structure:

•1.        The governing body of HHC shall be called The Board of Trustees, hereafter called the Board.
Affairs of HHC will be managed by the Board.

•2.        The board shall consist of five elected members plus founding patrons.

•3.        All Patrons shall have eligibility to serve on the Board.

•4.        An election shall be convened by the board prior to the end of the term for replacement of one or more of its outgoing elected members.

•5.        All members of the board shall be eligible for re-election.

•6.        The term of each of the board member shall be for 3 years. The rotation of the board shall be in the following manner: In each even year, one of the members will be replaced and in the odd years two members will be replaced.

•7.        All designations of responsibilities shall be done by the popular consent of the board.

•8.        The outgoing chairman shall be available as advisor for the board for the following year.

•9.        The ex-officio chairman would normally not vote in a board meeting. However, in special circumstances, where a meeting is called and an even number of members are present, the previous year’s retired chairman’s vote may be used to break a tie.

•10.     Election shall be convened once a year by a method where every member has the opportunity to vote, either in the General Assembly for which the time and place are properly announced in advance or by postal ballot, where a ballot is mailed to all members. In the event of a postal ballot, a diligent effort of mailing to the list of existing members is expected by the board. In turn, it is expected by the general members to notify all address changes in writing.

•11.     Although the term of the board shall be three years, any member of the board may be removed by a majority vote of the general body.

•12.     A mid term vacancy on the board resulting from any reason may be filled by the Board, by appointment until the following election.

Responsibilities of the Board

•1.        The board in addition to having overall responsibility for the smooth running of HHC shall be responsible for the following:

•2.        Electing, appointing, or nominating standing committee(s) consisting of suitable size and denominations indicating the responsibilities.

•3.        Appointing a Nominating Election Committee once a year to develop nominations or the vacant positions of elected members of the board.

•4.        Making operating results available.

•5.        Require HHC to engage a qualified accountant to audit the accounts of HHC.

General Assembly

•1.        General assembly shall be composed of members only as defined in the by-laws.

•2.        The general assembly can be called by the board at its discretion or by a signed request of 10% of the membership.

•3.        Notice of General Body Meetings: The Board of Trustees shall conduct the annual General Body Meeting every year during the “Ramanavami” event of HHC. 

•A.      Announcement of the General Body Meeting and proposed amendments approved by the Board of Trustees shall be posted at HHC, communicated via postal mail and email to membership not less than 15 days nor more than 45 days prior to the meeting date.

•B.       For passing resolutions, a minimum of one-tenth of voting members must be present at a General Body Meeting and a simple majority of votes shall carry the motion.

•C.       The Board of Trustees can call a special General Body Meeting following the above procedure.

XI. Dissolution

In the event of dissolution of HHC, the Board of Trustees shall after paying or making provisions for the payment of all the liabilities, dispose of all the assets of HHC exclusively for the purpose of the organization in such a manner or to other organizations operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes as shall at the time qualify as a tax exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) of the internal revenue code or the corresponding provision of any future IRS code as the Board shall determine.

HHC shall not be dissolved except by two third majority vote of the General Body who shall also determine the disposition of the assets.

 

Article

 

HHC Constitution amended in 1998 (documented in 2001) to remove the membership financial policy (Section VI)

 

  

Hindu Heritage Center, Inc.

Constitution and by-laws

PO Box # 10392

Peoria, IL 61612-0392

Federal Identification Number 37-1323693

Incorporated in State of Illinois, March 15, 1994

• File # 5772-447-1

I.1 Name:

Name of the organization shall be Hindu Heritage Center, Inc., hereafter referred to as the “Center”

• II.1 Nature and Status
• •1.        The center shall be a not for profit organization under laws of state of Illinois and United States Federal Government. .

•2.        The Center will be a ecclesiastical corporation.

•3.        All state of Illinois and United States Federal Government laws shall preempt provisions mentioned herein this document.

III.1 Mission

• The mission of the Center is to preserve and promote the Hi~ religion culture and philosophy.

Objective of the Center will be as follows:

• •1.        The Center will provide a facility to fulfill it’s mission
• •2.        The Center will strive to enhance pride in Hindu identity for present and future generations.
• •3.        The Center will engage in Hindu religious activities.
• •4.        The Center will enhance Hindu cultmal interactions
• •5.        The Center will promote understanding, studies and respect for Hindu philosophy

 

IV. Activities

• •1.        The activities of the Center will be open to all.
• •2.        All activities shall be in keeping with the dignity and respect for the sanctity of the holy place according to Hindu tradition.

V. Membership

•1.        Eligible members shall be individuals who have been approved by the Board of Trustees.

•2.        Organizations and other corporations may donate but shall not exercise any rights of individual members.

•3.        Membership shall be considered a privilege for admission and to utilization of the facilities of the center for designated activities.

•4.        Members shall have rights to use the facility for the activities approved by the board.

•5.        For years subsequent to 1995 (1996 and later) following method shall be used:

•6.        Each membership will permit one voting right.

•7.        Founding Patrons will have a permanent seat in the board of trustees.

VI. Financial Policy

VII Amendment of Bylaws

Proposed amendment and the reasons for the amendment shall be referred to the Constitution Committee who will draft the proposed amendment. This amendment shall be signed by at least  members of the Board of Trustees and presented to the Chairperson. It shall be debated by the Board of Trustees and adopted if approved by a majority.

VIII. Finance and Remuneration’s

All services performed by members to the Center shall be done on a voluntary basis. Any exceptions to this shall be only with prior approval of the Board of Trustees.

Any unbudgeted payment exceeding $250.00 shall require prior approval of the Board of Trustees.

IX. Interpretations

If a conflict arises in the interpretation these by-laws, then the ambiguity shall be resolved in the best interest of the Center and not of any individual.

X. Governing Body

Procedureand Structure:

•1.        The governing body of the Center shall be called The Board of Trustees, hereafter called the Board.
Affairs of the corporation will be managed by the Board.

•2.        The board shall consist of five elected members plus founding patrons.

•3.        All registered members (except honorary members) shall have eligibility to serve on the Board.

•4.        An election shall be convened by the board prior to the end of the term for replacement of one or more of its outgoing elected members.

•5.        All members of the board shall be eligible for re-election..

•6.        The term of each of the board member shall be for 3 years except for the initial years in which two of its members would have a one and two year term respectively. The rotation of the board shall be in the following manner: In each even year, one of the members will be replaced and in the even odd year two members will be replaced. For example, see TABLE.

•7.        All designations of responsibilities shall be done by the popular consent of the board.

•8.        The outgoing chairman shall be available as advisor for the board for the following year.

• •9.        The ex-officio chairman would normally not vote in a board meeting. However, in special circumstances, where a meeting is called and an even number of members are present, the previous year’s retired chairman’s vote may be used to break a tie.

•10.     Election shall be conven once a year by a method where every member has the opportunity to vote, either in the General Assembly for which the time and place are properly announced in advance or by postal ballot, where a ballot is mailed to all members. In the event of a postal ballot, a diligent effort of~ ~ to the list of existing members is ex ed by the board. In turn it is expected by the general members to non all address changes in Writing.

•11.     Although the term of the board shall be three years, any member of the board may be removed by a majority vote of the general body.

•12.     A mid term vacancy on the board resulting from any reason may be filled by the Board, by appointment until the following election. ,.

Responsibilities of the Board

The board in addition to having overall responsibility for the smooth running of the center shall be responsible for the following:

•1.        Electing, appointing, or nominating standing committee(s) consisting of suitable size and denominations indicating the responsibilities.

•2.        Appointing a Nominating Election Committee once a year to develop nominations or the vacant positions of elected members of the board.

•3.        Making operating results available.

•4.        Require the Center to engage a qualified accountant to audit the accounts of the Center.

General Assembly

1. General assembly shall be composed of members only as defined in the by-laws.

2. A 33% of the membership shall constitute as quorum for the purpose of the general body meeting to be able to exercise any of its rights.

3. The general assembly, can be called by the board at its discretion or by a signed request of 10% of the membership. 

XI. Dissolution

In the event of dissolution of HHC, the Board of Trustees shall after paying or making provisions for the payment of all the liabilities, dispose of all the assets of HHC exclusively for the purpose of the organization in such a manner or to other organizations operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes as shall at the time qualify as a tax exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) of the internal revenue code or the corresponding provision of any future IRS code as the Board shall determine.

HHC shall not be dissolved except by two third majority vote of the General Body who shall also determine the disposition of the assets.

 

Article

The first version of Constitution

Hindu Heritage Center, Inc.

Constitution and by-laws

PO Box # 10392

Peoria, IL 61612-0392

Federal Identification Number 37-1323693

Incorporated in State of Illinois, March 15, 1994

• File # 5772-447-1

I.1 Name:

Name of the organization shall be Hindu Heritage Center, Inc., hereafter referred to as the “Center”

• II.1 Nature and Status
• •1.        The center shall be a not for profit organization under laws of state of Illinois and United States Federal Government. .

•2.        The Center will be a ecclesiastical corporation.

•3.        All state of Illinois and United States Federal Government laws shall preempt provisions mentioned herein this document.

III.1 Mission

• The mission of the Center is to preserve and promote the Hi~ religion culture and philosophy.

Objective of the Center will be as follows:

• •1.        The Center will provide a facility to fulfill it’s mission
• •2.        The Center will strive to enhance pride in Hindu identity for present and future generations.
• •3.        The Center will engage in Hindu religious activities.
• •4.        The Center will enhance Hindu cultmal interactions
• •5.        The Center will promote understanding, studies and respect for Hindu philosophy

 

IV. Activities

• •1.        The activities of the Center will be open to all.
• •2.        All activities shall be in keeping with the dignity and respect for the sanctity of the holy place according to Hindu tradition.

V. Membership

•1.        Eligible members shall be individuals who have been approved by the Board of Trustees.

•2.        Organizations and other corporations may donate but shall not exercise any rights of individual members.

•3.        Membership shall be considered a privilege for admission and to utilization of the facilities of the center for designated activities.

•4.        Members shall have rights to use the facility for the activities approved by the board.

•5.        For years subsequent to 1995 (1996 and later) following method shall be used:

•6.        Each membership will permit one voting right.

•7.        Founding Patrons will have a permanent seat in the board of trustees.

VI. Financial Policy

1. Members are required to pay their membership dues by the January 31st of every year.

2. Additional fee of $10 shall be due if the payment is made after Janury 31 by continuing members. 

3. A non-receipt of dues by April of each year will result in automatic cancellation of the membership. Once canceled, reinstatement of membership shall require $50 reinstatement fee.

4. Non-cash donations shall also be accepted.    

VII Amendment of Bylaws

Proposed amendment and the reasons for the amendment shall be referred to the Constitution Committee who will draft the proposed amendment. This amendment shall be signed by at least  members of the Board of Trustees and presented to the Chairperson. It shall be debated by the Board of Trustees and adopted if approved by a majority.

VIII. Finance and Remuneration’s

All services performed by members to the Center shall be done on a voluntary basis. Any exceptions to this shall be only with prior approval of the Board of Trustees.

Any unbudgeted payment exceeding $250.00 shall require prior approval of the Board of Trustees.

IX. Interpretations

If a conflict arises in the interpretation these by-laws, then the ambiguity shall be resolved in the best interest of the Center and not of any individual.

X. Governing Body

Procedureand Structure:

•1.        The governing body of the Center shall be called The Board of Trustees, hereafter called the Board.
Affairs of the corporation will be managed by the Board.

•2.        The board shall consist of five elected members plus founding patrons.

•3.        All registered members (except honorary members) shall have eligibility to serve on the Board.

•4.        An election shall be convened by the board prior to the end of the term for replacement of one or more of its outgoing elected members.

•5.        All members of the board shall be eligible for re-election..

•6.        The term of each of the board member shall be for 3 years except for the initial years in which two of its members would have a one and two year term respectively. The rotation of the board shall be in the following manner: In each even year, one of the members will be replaced and in the even odd year two members will be replaced. For example, see TABLE.

•7.        All designations of responsibilities shall be done by the popular consent of the board.

•8.        The outgoing chairman shall be available as advisor for the board for the following year.

• •9.        The ex-officio chairman would normally not vote in a board meeting. However, in special circumstances, where a meeting is called and an even number of members are present, the previous year’s retired chairman’s vote may be used to break a tie.

•10.     Election shall be conven once a year by a method where every member has the opportunity to vote, either in the General Assembly for which the time and place are properly announced in advance or by postal ballot, where a ballot is mailed to all members. In the event of a postal ballot, a diligent effort of~ ~ to the list of existing members is ex ed by the board. In turn it is expected by the general members to non all address changes in Writing.

•11.     Although the term of the board shall be three years, any member of the board may be removed by a majority vote of the general body.

•12.     A mid term vacancy on the board resulting from any reason may be filled by the Board, by appointment until the following election. ,.

Responsibilities of the Board

The board in addition to having overall responsibility for the smooth running of the center shall be responsible for the following:

•1.        Electing, appointing, or nominating standing committee(s) consisting of suitable size and denominations indicating the responsibilities.

•2.        Appointing a Nominating Election Committee once a year to develop nominations or the vacant positions of elected members of the board.

•3.        Making operating results available.

•4.        Require the Center to engage a qualified accountant to audit the accounts of the Center.

General Assembly

1. General assembly shall be composed of members only as defined in the by-laws.

2. A 33% of the membership shall constitute as quorum for the purpose of the general body meeting to be able to exercise any of its rights.

3. The general assembly, can be called by the board at its discretion or by a signed request of 10% of the membership. 

XI. Dissolution

In the event of dissolution of HHC, the Board of Trustees shall after paying or making provisions for the payment of all the liabilities, dispose of all the assets of HHC exclusively for the purpose of the organization in such a manner or to other organizations operated exclusively for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes as shall at the time qualify as a tax exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) of the internal revenue code or the corresponding provision of any future IRS code as the Board shall determine.

HHC shall not be dissolved except by two third majority vote of the General Body who shall also determine the disposition of the assets.

 

Amended 2003 By-Laws

2002 HTCI Constitution By-Laws to be Amended	Amended 2003 By-Laws
V. Membership Qualifications and Privileges 1.    Membership: HTCI shall have three categories of membership, consisting of General Members, Patrons and Founding Patrons. A.      General Members: Any individual subscribing to the Vision and Mission of HHC is a General Member. B.       Patrons: A person fulfilling all the Patron membership qualifications shall be a Patron member and shall be a voting member of HHC. C.       Founding Patrons: A Founding Patron is an individual who has committed a cumulative seed donation of $35,000 or more over a seven year period as of April 29, 2000. Founding Patrons are permanent members of the Board of Trustees of HHC, each with one permanent vote at Board of Trustees meetings.	V. Membership Qualifications and Privileges     1.    Membership: HTCI shall have three categories of membership, consisting of General Members, Patrons and Founding Patrons. A.    General Members: Any individual subscribing to the Vision and Mission of HTCI  is a General Member. B.      Patrons: A person fulfilling all the Patron membership qualifications shall be a Patron member and shall be a voting member of HTCI. C.       Founding Patrons: A Founding Patron is an individual who has committed a cumulative seed donation of $35,000 or more over a seven year period as of April 29, 2000Founding  Patrons are permanent members of the Board of Volunteers of HTCI, each with one permanent vote at Board of Volunteers meetings.
X. Governing Body Procedure and Structure 1.        The governing body of HHC shall be called The Board of Trustees, hereafter called the Board. Affairs of HHC will be managed by the Board. 2.        The board shall consist of five elected members plus founding patrons. 3.        All Patrons shall have eligibility to serve on the Board. 4.        An election shall be convened by the board prior to the end of the term for replacement of one or more of its outgoing elected members. 5.        All members of the board shall be eligible for re-election. 6.        The term of each of the board member shall be for 3 years. The rotation of the board shall be in the following manner: In each even year, one of the members will be replaced and in the odd years two members will be replaced. 7.        All designations of responsibilities shall be done by the popular consent of the board.	IX. Governing Body Procedure and Structure The governing body of HTCI shall be called The Board of Volunteers hereafter called the Board. Affairs of HTCI will be managed by the Board. The Board shall consist of Founding Patrons plus all Committee Chairs. The Committee Chairs are selected by the Board based on their demonstrated outstanding volunteerism and time commitment to Committee activities. The nominations are approved by the Board and the election is ratified by the General Body.        3.    All Patrons shall have eligibility to      serve on the Board. 4. An election shall be convened by the Board prior to the end of the term for replacement of one or more of its outgoing Committee Chairs. All Committee Chairs shall be eligible for reelection. The term of each of the Committee Chairs shall be for three years.   All designations of responsibilities shall be done by the popular consent of the Board with one restriction: Chairperson’s position can be designated only to the member who has served at least one year in the capacity of a Board member. A mid-term vacancy in any of the Committee Chairs can be filled by the Board by appointment to serve out the balance of the term.
Responsibilities of the Board The board in addition to having overall responsibility for the smooth running of HHC shall be responsible for the following: 1.     Electing, appointing, or nominating standing committee(s) consisting of suitable size and denominations indicating the responsibilities. 2.        Appointing a Nominating Election Committee once a year to develop nominations or the vacant positions of elected members of the board. 3.        Making operating results available. 4.        Require HHC to engage a qualified accountant to audit the accounts of HHC.	Responsibilities of the Board The Board, in addition to having overall responsibility for the smooth running of the Temple, shall be responsible for the following: Selecting, nominating and facilitating electing Committee Chairs. Appointing a Nominating Committee, if need be, once a year to develop nominations for the vacant Committee Chairs. Ongoing communications by postal or email and on the website. Maintaining activities, schedules and accounts on the Temple website to ensure open sharing of information.  Making operating results available. Engage a qualified Accountant to audit the accounts of the Temple.

Amended 2002 By-Laws

2001 HTCI Constitution By-Laws to be Amended	Amended 2002 By-Laws
V. Membership 1.        Eligible members shall be individuals who have been approved by the Board of Trustees. 2.        Organizations and other corporations may donate but shall not exercise any rights of individual members. 3.        Membership shall be considered a privilege for admission and to utilization of the facilities of the center for designated activities. 4.        Members shall have rights to use the facility for the activities approved by the board. 5.        For years subsequent to 1995 (1996 and later) following method shall be used: 6.        Each membership will permit one voting right. 7.        Founding Patrons will have a permanent seat in the board of trustees.	V. Membership Qualifications and Privileges 1.       Membership: HHC shall have three categories of membership, consisting of General Members, Patrons and Founding Patrons. A.      General Members: Any individual subscribing to the Vision and Mission of HHC is a General Member. B.       Patrons: A person fulfilling all the Patron membership qualifications shall be a Patron member and shall be a voting member of HHC. C.       Founding Patrons: A Founding Patron is an individual who has committed a cumulative seed donation of $35,000 or more over a seven year period as of April 29, 2000. Founding Patrons are permanent members of the Board of Trustees of HHC, each with one permanent vote at Board of Trustees meetings. 2.        Patron Membership Qualifications: A Patron member of HHC shall; A.      Abide by the Vision, Mission and Objectives of HHC. B. Be at least 18 years of age. C. Be a resident of the United States of America. D.Make annual cash contributions of a minimum of $120 per year exclusively towards the annual membership, recorded by December 31st of the previous year. Instead, an individual making an annual contribution of a minimum of $1,000 per year exclusively towards the annual membership, recorded by December 31st of the previous year, shall be recognized as a Pillar Patron member for the year. E.       Membership is on an annual basis starting from January 1 through December 31 of any calendar year. F.       Each Patron member is entitled to one vote at General Body Meetings. 3.        Organizations and other corporations may donate but shall not exercise any rights of individual members. 4.        Membership shall be considered a privilege for admission and to utilization of the facilities of HHC for designated activities. 5.        Members shall have rights to use the facility for the activities approved by the board
VII Amendment of Bylaws Proposed amendment and the reasons for the amendment shall be referred to the Constitution Committee who will draft the proposed amendment. This amendment shall be signed by at least  members of the Board of Trustees and presented to the Chairperson. It shall be debated by the Board of Trustees and adopted if approved by a majority.	VII Amendment of Bylaws All requests for amendments, not originated by the Constitution Committee, shall be signed by at least two members of the Board of Trustees and presented to the Board Chairperson.  The Board Chairperson shall refer such requests for amendments and reasons thereof to the Constitution Committee. The Constitution Committee shall draft amendment proposals. All amendments proposed by the Constitution Committee shall be presented to and debated by the Board of Trustees, and approved by a majority vote. The Constitution Committee shall communicate in writing its proposals to the Board of Trustees at least one week prior to the Board of Trustees meeting. The Board approved proposed amendments shall be presented to the General Body for ratification.
General Assembly 1. General assembly shall be composed of members only as defined in the by-laws. 2. A 33% of the membership shall constitute as quorum for the purpose of the general body meeting to be able to exercise any of its rights. 3. The general assembly, can be called by the board at its discretion or by a signed request of 10% of the membership.	General Assembly 1.        General assembly shall be composed of members only as defined in the by-laws. 2.        The general assembly can be called by the board at its discretion or by a signed request of 10% of the membership. 3.        Notice of General Body Meetings: The Board of Trustees shall conduct the annual General Body Meeting every year during the “Ramanavami” event of HHC.  A.      Announcement of the General Body Meeting and proposed amendments approved by the Board of Trustees shall be posted at HHC, communicated via postal mail and email to membership not less than 15 days nor more than 45 days prior to the meeting date. B.       For passing resolutions, a minimum of one-tenth of voting members must be present at a General Body Meeting and a simple majority of votes shall carry the motion. C.       The Board of Trustees can call a special General Body Meeting following the above procedure.