house_documents:constitutions:orion
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| Both sides previous revisionPrevious revisionNext revision | Previous revision | ||
| house_documents:constitutions:orion [2019/12/13 13:02] – Updated 1.2, updated 3.2, added 3.12, updated 5.3.M, updated 8.10 (minus bullet points), added 10.10 eo_orion | house_documents:constitutions:orion [2023/11/13 20:48] (current) – vp_education | ||
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| Members who pay their dues will be considered members for life, but only current residents under contract will be considered housemates and allowed to vote. | Members who pay their dues will be considered members for life, but only current residents under contract will be considered housemates and allowed to vote. | ||
| - | The purpose of the association shall be to provide room and board to its members at low cost. The reason for such an association is to provide an hospitable and educational living experience where members are encouraged to grow through | + | The purpose of the association shall be to provide room and board to its members at low cost. The reason for such an association is to provide an hospitable and educational living experience where members are encouraged to grow through |
| - | Contained in this document is the set of standards and procedures outlining ways of delegating responsibility and authority in a democratic and cooperative manner, in keeping with the purpose of the House and the policies of the MSU-Student | + | Contained in this document is the set of standards and procedures outlining ways of delegating responsibility and authority in a democratic and cooperative manner, in keeping with the purpose of the House and the policies of the Spartan |
| + | |||
| + | This is a living document, and is therefore subject to change. | ||
| </ | </ | ||
| ====Article 1: Membership==== | ====Article 1: Membership==== | ||
| - | - **1.1** Prospective members shall become members upon applying | + | - **1.1** Prospective members shall become members upon: |
| + | - **a)** Applying | ||
| + | - **b)** Touring | ||
| + | - **c)** Attending a House event | ||
| + | - **d)** Attending a regular House Meeting for a minimum of 1 hour | ||
| + | - **e)** Being approved by a unanimous vote at a house meeting with a quorum present, or online by a unanimous vote of a majority of current house members. | ||
| + | - **f)** Making | ||
| + | - **g)** Signing | ||
| + | - **h)** Establishment | ||
| + | - in that order. Prospective members must also show a willingness to live in an intentional community and agree with our established house norms. Members must also be members of the Spartan | ||
| - **1.2** Any person who agrees to fulfill the conditions of the House membership agreement shall be eligible for membership. No person shall be denied membership on the grounds of race, creed, sex, gender, sexual orientation, | - **1.2** Any person who agrees to fulfill the conditions of the House membership agreement shall be eligible for membership. No person shall be denied membership on the grounds of race, creed, sex, gender, sexual orientation, | ||
| - | - **1.3** Members are required to sign membership agreements that coincide with the Student | + | - **1.3** Members are required to sign membership agreements that coincide with the Spartan |
| - **1.4** Members who pay their house dues will be considered ‘members for life’, but only current residents under membership agreement will be considered ‘current members’ and allowed to vote on all matters. | - **1.4** Members who pay their house dues will be considered ‘members for life’, but only current residents under membership agreement will be considered ‘current members’ and allowed to vote on all matters. | ||
| + | |||
| + | - **1.5** Unless a prior agreement has been made with the house, once a member fully moves out of Orion any property left behind by them is considered abandoned and becomes the property of the house. Former residents shall have no expectation of retrieving their abandoned belongings in the months, weeks, or years after their departure. | ||
| + | |||
| + | - **1.6** To avoid any potential future interpersonal conflicts, we reserve the right to deny any unmarried touring couples who wish to move in together. Exceptions can be made if they are well-known and in good standing with the house membership. | ||
| ====Article 2: Member Responsibilities and Duties==== | ====Article 2: Member Responsibilities and Duties==== | ||
| Line 31: | Line 46: | ||
| - **a)** Each roommate has the right to privacy and equal use of the room. | - **a)** Each roommate has the right to privacy and equal use of the room. | ||
| - **b)** Each roommate must try to respect the other’s desires regarding lights, noise, and use in general. | - **b)** Each roommate must try to respect the other’s desires regarding lights, noise, and use in general. | ||
| - | - **c)** A roommate must obtain explicit permission from their roommate to have an overnight guest in the room each time s/he has a guest. | + | - **c)** A roommate must obtain explicit permission from their roommate to have an overnight guest in the room each time they a guest. |
| + | - **2.1.I** Abide by the norms voted on at the beginning of each semester | ||
| + | - **a)** Repeated violations of the house norms are grounds for a house-assessed fine, or further disciplinary actions should the need arise. | ||
| - | - **2.2** Attendance at meetings is mandatory. Members may be excused from House meetings by submitting written or verbal notice to the House Board Representative 24 hours prior to any House meeting. Excuses should explained in as much detail as necessary. Authority is given to the House President/ | + | - **2.2** Attendance at meetings is mandatory. Members may be excused from House meetings by submitting written or verbal notice to the House Board Representative 24 hours prior to any House meeting. Excuses should |
| - **2.3** Any unexcused absence from a regular house meeting will result in a fine, with consecutive unexcused absences resulting in compounding fines: the first absence is a freebie, second absence $10, third absence $20. If a member misses three consecutive meetings, the membership may vote to evict the member in question. Five absences (consecutive or not) in a semester will also result in the membership being empowered to evict the member. | - **2.3** Any unexcused absence from a regular house meeting will result in a fine, with consecutive unexcused absences resulting in compounding fines: the first absence is a freebie, second absence $10, third absence $20. If a member misses three consecutive meetings, the membership may vote to evict the member in question. Five absences (consecutive or not) in a semester will also result in the membership being empowered to evict the member. | ||
| - | - **2.4** Members are required to perform a minimum of 4 weekly chore credit points of work duty assigned by the Chore Checker on a weekly basis. A dish duty calendar will also be posted by the Chore Checker. Each member must also complete 1 hour of general house improvement during each of Orion House’s Work Weeks (See Article 4.8.J). Chores and general improvement are required as part of the member’s membership agreement in keeping with the cooperative principle of keeping costs down by substituting labor for capital. | + | - **2.4** Members are required to perform a minimum of 4 weekly chore credit points of work duty assigned by the Chore Checker on a weekly basis. A dish duty calendar will also be posted by the Chore Checker. Each member must also complete 1 hour of general house improvement during each of Orion House’s Work Days (See Article 4.8.J). Chores and general improvement are required as part of the member’s membership agreement in keeping with the cooperative principle of keeping costs down by substituting labor for capital. |
| - | - **2.5** If a house member wishes to prematurely break their membership agreement, it is the member’s responsibility to find a replacement. This responsibility will end on the date the replacing member contractually begins their lease. Any potential new member must meet all Orion House membership conditions. In the case of a double room vacancy the potential new member must be approved by the remaining roommate. Any objections must be written out and submitted to the Membership Officer. Any member may also “buy out” of their membership agreement by paying 3 months worth of rent in advance. The member is then no longer obligated to find a replacement for their membership agreement, and the responsibility falls to the house and membership officer. | + | - **2.5** If a house member wishes to prematurely break their membership agreement, it is the member’s responsibility to find a replacement. This responsibility will end on the date the replacing member contractually begins their contract. Any potential new member must meet all Orion House membership conditions. In the case of a double room vacancy the potential new member must be approved by the remaining roommate. Any objections must be written out and submitted to the Membership Officer. Any member may also “buy out” of their membership agreement by paying 3 months worth of dues in advance. The member is then no longer obligated to find a replacement for their membership agreement, and the responsibility falls to the house and Membership Officer. |
| ====Article 3: House Meetings==== | ====Article 3: House Meetings==== | ||
| - | - **3.1** Attendance at all meetings is mandatory for all current members. (See Article 2.2 for exceptions). | + | - **3.1** Attendance at all meetings is mandatory for all current members. (See Article 2.2 for exceptions). |
| - | - **3.2** The House is governed under this constitution. The House is empowered to make day to day decisions and policies as long as they do not conflict with this constitution, | + | - **3.2** The House is governed under this constitution. The House is empowered to make day to day decisions and policies as long as they do not conflict with this constitution, |
| - **3.3** At the first House Meeting of each term the House shall offer input on a schedule of the term’s house meetings. A schedule will be posted by the House Board Representative within a week of that first meeting for the whole term. The House Board Representative must post the meeting agendas at least 3 days before each meeting. | - **3.3** At the first House Meeting of each term the House shall offer input on a schedule of the term’s house meetings. A schedule will be posted by the House Board Representative within a week of that first meeting for the whole term. The House Board Representative must post the meeting agendas at least 3 days before each meeting. | ||
| - | - **3.4** Quorum is defined as 50% plus one of current members of the House, unless otherwise stated. Quorum may be adjusted during summer semester if necessary. Motions passed at regular House meetings with quorum shall be binding on all members, guests, and visitors to Orion House. Quorum will not be required for emergency meetings due to lack of quorum at regular. | + | - **3.4** Quorum is defined as a simple majority |
| - | - **3.5** Emergency meetings are defined as regular house meetings (i.e. are mandatory) that are not on the beginning term schedule. Any member along with the House President may call an Emergency Meeting. In the event that the inability to raise quorum has impaired the House’s ability to address issues, the House Board Representative may call a special House meeting by posting the time that is amenable to most members. If quorum is not reached through these efforts, then a 2/3 majority vote of those voting members present will be sufficient to pass motions. Motions passed at an Emergency House Meeting may be overturned by a simple majority at subsequent Regular house meetings where quorum is reached, in order to avoid abuse of special meeting voting rules. | + | - **3.5** Emergency meetings are defined as regular house meetings (i.e. are mandatory) that are not on the beginning term schedule. Any member along with the House President may call an Emergency Meeting. |
| + | - **3.5.A** Take an active part in the operation of Orion House;In the event that the inability to raise quorum has impaired the House’s ability to address issues, the House Board Representative may call a special House meeting by posting the time that is amenable to most members. If quorum is not reached through these efforts, then a 2/3 majority vote of those voting members present will be sufficient to pass motions. Motions passed at an Emergency House Meeting may be overturned by a simple majority at subsequent Regular house meetings where quorum is reached, in order to avoid abuse of special meeting voting rules. | ||
| - | - **3.6** The first Regular | + | - **3.6** The first regular |
| - **3.7** If the previous House President is no longer residing in the house at the first meeting of the new contract year, then any member with meeting facilitation experience may facilitate the first meeting of the semester. | - **3.7** If the previous House President is no longer residing in the house at the first meeting of the new contract year, then any member with meeting facilitation experience may facilitate the first meeting of the semester. | ||
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| - **3.8** The following items will be on every House agenda: | - **3.8** The following items will be on every House agenda: | ||
| - Attendance | - Attendance | ||
| + | - Fine Appeals | ||
| + | - Old Business | ||
| + | - New Business/ | ||
| - Officer Reports | - Officer Reports | ||
| - Finance Officer | - Finance Officer | ||
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| - Board of Directors Representative | - Board of Directors Representative | ||
| - Chore Checker | - Chore Checker | ||
| - | - Rent Inquiry | ||
| - | - Fine Appeals | ||
| - | - Old Business | ||
| - | - New Business/ | ||
| - Announcements | - Announcements | ||
| - | - **3.9** House meetings must not last longer than 3 hours, unless the meeting is extended by a 2/3 vote of members present. The Agenda should include a 10-minute break for lengthy meetings. | + | - **3.9** House meetings must not last longer than 2½ hours, unless the meeting is extended by a 2/3 vote of members present. |
| - | - **3.10** The House Board Representative (or their stand-in) should encourage relevant discussion, facilitate organized problem solving, and demand that disputes be settled with civility. In the event that a discussion becomes so heated that the President is struggling to maintain order, | + | - **3.10** The House Board Representative (or their stand-in) should encourage relevant discussion, facilitate organized problem solving, and demand that disputes be settled with civility. In the event that a discussion becomes so heated that the President is struggling to maintain order, |
| - **3.11** The facilitator will not vote, except to break a tie. The facilitator still counts toward reaching quorum. | - **3.11** The facilitator will not vote, except to break a tie. The facilitator still counts toward reaching quorum. | ||
| - | - **3.12** For the sake of time, discussion during the Constitution/ | + | - **3.12** For the sake of time, discussion during the Constitution/ |
| + | |||
| + | - **3.13 House Norms** | ||
| + | - The house must hold meetings each semester to establish or redefine house norms, which shall be defined as a regular house meeting. House norms are defined in the “Orion House Norms” document in the House Google Drive. Membership may impose a penalty based on the severity and importance deemed by the Membership. Violation of the most current established house norms may result in a fine, and/or eviction. | ||
| ====Article 4: House Officers==== | ====Article 4: House Officers==== | ||
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| - Membership Officer | - Membership Officer | ||
| - | - **4.2** Officers must be elected for each term at the first or second house meeting of the semester. Officer descriptions are available within this Article, and this constitution as a whole must be made available to all members from the day of move-in.!!! Orion House Officers will be elected by a majority vote. Officers must serve until they are replaced or no longer reside in the house, to ensure harmonious operation of the House. This extends responsibilities to cover all periods between house meeting | + | - **4.2** Officers must be elected for each term at the first or second house meeting of the semester. Officer descriptions are available within this Article, and this constitution as a whole must be made available to all members from the day of move-in. Orion House Officers will be elected by a majority vote. Officers must serve until they are replaced or no longer reside in the house, to ensure harmonious operation of the House. This extends responsibilities to cover all periods between house meetings |
| - **4.3** Any officer may be recalled by a majority vote if the issue is announced on a meeting agenda. At the meeting, members must express their grievances regarding the performance of the officer in question. The officer in question may not facilitate the meeting. All recall votes shall be anonymous. | - **4.3** Any officer may be recalled by a majority vote if the issue is announced on a meeting agenda. At the meeting, members must express their grievances regarding the performance of the officer in question. The officer in question may not facilitate the meeting. All recall votes shall be anonymous. | ||
| - **4.4** All House Officers will prepare a report for each house meeting. The report should include happenings at any meetings they have attended, the current situation of any house activities they oversee (i.e. Membership Officer should report on vacancies, Facilities Officer should report on projects, etc). | - **4.4** All House Officers will prepare a report for each house meeting. The report should include happenings at any meetings they have attended, the current situation of any house activities they oversee (i.e. Membership Officer should report on vacancies, Facilities Officer should report on projects, etc). | ||
| + | - **4.4.A** All House Officers must meet bi-weekly. Each must report progress on any committee level work they’ve been tasked with, as well as any updates on house level projects/ | ||
| - | - **4.5** The Board of Directors Representative must: | + | - **4.5** The Board of Directors Representative/House President |
| - | - **4.5.A** Vote for Orion House at all SHC BoD meetings. House members are encouraged to attend board meetings at their discretion. | + | - **4.5.A** Vote for Orion House at all SHC BoD meetings. |
| - | - **4.5.B** Electronically post the agenda for each house meeting at least 3 days prior to the meeting. Members are expected to contribute to the agenda with any topics they wish to discuss. | + | - **4.5.B** Electronically post the agenda for each house meeting at least 3 days prior to the meeting. |
| - | - **4.5.C** Sit on one of the SHC standing committees and work with the Finance Officer pay any fines assessed to the House for non-attendance of any SHC meetings. | + | - **4.5.C** Sit on one of the SHC standing committees and work with the Finance Officer |
| - | - **4.5.D** Be considered a Director of SHC and is charged to act in the best interests of the House and SHC. | + | - **4.5.D** Be familiar with the SHC Bylaws, Board Policy Manual, and Code of Operations. They will be a reference for issues members have with SHC and their policy and practices. |
| - | - **4.5.E** Put every effort into getting the membership’s input on all SHC issues. | + | - **4.5.E** Be the default house member to speak with the authorities during an emergency. If the Board Representative is under the age of 21, they must assign a replacement ahead of time to speak with the authorities in a house party situation. |
| - | - **4.5.F** Sign any corporate documents. | + | - **4.5.F** Be a veteran member of the house, if at all possible. |
| - | - **4.5.G** Be familiar with the SHC Code of Operations | + | - **4.5.G** Facilitate the first house meeting of the contract period. Any member may volunteer to facilitate a house meeting, by announcing they’d like to at the previous meeting. The Board Representative serves as the default facilitator. |
| - | - **4.5.H** Be familiar with any policies monitored at the last board meeting. | + | - **4.5.H** Understand the definition of harassment and must work with the Membership Officer in fulfilling the obligations of the procedure if the need arises. |
| - | - **4.5.I** Be the default house member to speak with the authorities during an emergency. If the Board Representative is under the age of 21, they must assign a replacement ahead of time to speak with the authorities in a house party situation. | + | - **4.5.I** Maintain the House Google Drive, keeping it organized and up to date. |
| - | - **4.5.J** Be a veteran member of the house, if at all possible. | + | - **4.5.J** Keep track of meeting absences, and report those to the Finance Officer when fines are needed to be given. |
| - | - **4.5.K** Facilitate the first house meeting of the contract period. Any member may volunteer to facilitate a house meeting, by announcing they’d like to at the previous meeting. The Board Representative serves as the default facilitator. | + | - **4.5.K** House Board Rep has to inform housemates that the Stalk Doc exists and they should add their information to it in the event of an emergency. |
| - | - **4.5.L** Understand the definition of harassment and must work with the Membership Officer in fulfilling the obligations of the procedure if the need arises. | + | - **4.5.L** Be an administrator for the House Discord |
| - | - **4.5.M** Maintain the House Google Drive, keeping it organized and up to date. | + | - **4.5.M** Assign parking, refrigerator, cubby, |
| - | - **4.5.N** Keep track of meeting absences, and report those to the Finance Officer when fines are needed to be given. | + | - **4.5.N** Receive 3 chore credit points per week. |
| - | - **4.5.O** House Board Rep has to inform housemates that the Stalk Doc exists and they should add their information to it in the event of an emergency. | + | - **4.5.O** Work as a conflict |
| - | - **4.5.P** Be an administrator for the House Facebook | + | |
| - | - **4.5.Q** Assign parking, refrigerator and freezer space at the beginning of each semester, keeping in mind seniority, frequency of car use, and amount of grocery space needed. | + | |
| - | - **4.5.R** Receive 3 chore credit points per week. | + | |
| - | - **4.5.S** Conflict | + | |
| - **4.6** The Finance Officer must: | - **4.6** The Finance Officer must: | ||
| - **4.6.A** Serve on the SHC Finance Committee and attend each meeting or send a substitute. | - **4.6.A** Serve on the SHC Finance Committee and attend each meeting or send a substitute. | ||
| - | - **4.6.B** Reports should also include any updates resulting from finance committee | + | - **4.6.B** Reports should also include any updates resulting from Finance Committee |
| - **4.6.C** Formulate the term budget immediately after the first house meeting of each term, using input from the Corporate Treasurer. This formal budget will be on the agenda of the second house meeting of the term. The budget will pass by a 2/3 majority of the current house membership and all members must sign the budget in agreement. | - **4.6.C** Formulate the term budget immediately after the first house meeting of each term, using input from the Corporate Treasurer. This formal budget will be on the agenda of the second house meeting of the term. The budget will pass by a 2/3 majority of the current house membership and all members must sign the budget in agreement. | ||
| - **4.6.D** Pay all House bills by the due date, or else the house may vote to charge the Finance Officer the equivalent of any late fines or reinstallations fees incurred due to late payment (must pass with a majority vote at a house meeting). | - **4.6.D** Pay all House bills by the due date, or else the house may vote to charge the Finance Officer the equivalent of any late fines or reinstallations fees incurred due to late payment (must pass with a majority vote at a house meeting). | ||
| - | - **4.6.E** Keep the house checkbook for the appropriate year. They must ensure that the checkbook for the inactive year is held at the SHC. They may also distribute a checkbook or debit card to the House Shopper, if they are a signer on the Orion bank account. | + | - **4.6.E** Keep the house checkbook for the appropriate year. They must ensure that the checkbook for the inactive year is held at the SHC. They may also distribute a checkbook or debit card to the House Steward, if they are a signer on the Orion bank account. |
| - | - **4.6.F** Be given all receipts by the House Shopper | + | - **4.6.F** Be given all receipts by the House Steward |
| - | - **4.6.G** Make the House records available to any member who wishes to see them. This includes posting a copy of the semester budget on the Facebook Page and Google Drive. | + | - **4.6.G** Make the House records available to any member who wishes to see them. This includes posting a copy of the semester budget on the Discord |
| - | - **4.6.H** The Finance Officer must also make the records available to the SHC bookkeeper | + | - **4.6.H** The Finance Officer must also make the records available to the SHC Finance Manager |
| - | - **4.6.I** Serve as financial spokesperson for the House when dealing with banks, utility companies, suppliers, or the SHC office. | + | - **4.6.I** The Finance Officer shall be responsible for any fines imposed upon the House due to negligence in attending committee meetings. |
| - | - **4.6.J** Problems with the House books or House members’ accounts must be brought up at finance committee meetings, along with a ledger of all member accounts. | + | - **4.6.J** Keep track of all Recycling Money, and keep it in a secure location. |
| - | - **4.6.K** The Finance Officer shall be responsible for any fines imposed upon the House due to negligence in attending committee meetings. | + | - **4.6.K** Towards the end of each month, be given the records of fines and credits from the Chore Checker, and be notified of the members who missed meetings from the House Board Representative, |
| - | - **4.6.L** Keep track of all Recycling Money, and keep it in a secure location. | + | - **4.6.L** Post the Charge Sheet on Discord |
| - | - **4.6.M** Towards the end of each month, be given the records of fines and credits from the Chore Checker, and be notified of the members who missed meetings from the House Board Representative, | + | - **4.6.M** Be credited 3 chore credit points each week. |
| - | - **4.6.N** Post the Charge Sheet on Facebook | + | |
| - | - **4.6.O** Bring up the maintenance budget at the house meeting. | + | |
| - | - **4.6.P** If at all possible, take time to train the next Finance Officer. | + | |
| - | - **4.6.Q** Be a veteran member of the house, if at all possible. | + | |
| - | - **4.6.R** Finance Officer should have some background in accounting, mathematics, | + | |
| - | - **4.6.S** Be credited 3 chore credit points each week. | + | |
| - **4.7** The Education Officer must: | - **4.7** The Education Officer must: | ||
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| - **4.7.C** Attend all Education meetings or send a substitute. Any fines for not attending will be charged to their account. | - **4.7.C** Attend all Education meetings or send a substitute. Any fines for not attending will be charged to their account. | ||
| - **4.7.D** Contributing to or coordinating the contributions of Orion House to the Pine Press. | - **4.7.D** Contributing to or coordinating the contributions of Orion House to the Pine Press. | ||
| - | - **4.7.E** | + | - **4.7.E** |
| - **4.7.F** Update the house on the Pine Press, important points from committee discussions, | - **4.7.F** Update the house on the Pine Press, important points from committee discussions, | ||
| - | - **4.7.G** Review the House Constitution at the beginning of each term and suggest any changes that they feel fit to the Membership for approval at the second | + | - **4.7.G** Review the House Constitution at the beginning of each term and suggest any changes that they feel fit to the Membership for approval at the norms meeting. If no changes are to be made to the constitution |
| - | - **4.7.H** | + | - **4.7.H** |
| - | - **4.7.I** | + | - **4.7.I** |
| - **4.7.J** Encourage and lead members in adding to the House’s culture, norms and history | - **4.7.J** Encourage and lead members in adding to the House’s culture, norms and history | ||
| - | - **4.7.K** Be an administrator on the house Facebook group. | + | - **4.7.K** Be an administrator on the House Discord. |
| - | - **4.7.L** | + | - **4.7.L** |
| - | - **4.7.M** | + | - **4.7.M** |
| - **4.8** The Facilities Officer must: | - **4.8** The Facilities Officer must: | ||
| - **4.8.A** Be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the physical House. | - **4.8.A** Be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the physical House. | ||
| - | - **4.8.B** Attend all SHC Maintenance | + | - **4.8.B** Attend all SHC Facilities |
| - | - **4.8.C** | + | - **4.8.C** |
| - | - **4.8.D** Keep complete set of duplicate keys in a place that is secure, but accessible to all housemates. | + | - **4.8.D** Keep a complete set of duplicate keys in a place that is secure, but accessible to all housemates. The Facilities Officer shall be landlord of the Key Condo. |
| - | - **4.8.E** Ensure that all House duties that involve maintenance are done in a proper fashion. The Chore Checker will be notified of any negligence and s/he may issue a warning. Further negligence will result in a fine. | + | - **4.8.E** Ensure that all House duties that involve maintenance are done in a proper fashion. The Chore Checker will be notified of any negligence and they may issue a warning. Further negligence will result in a fine. |
| - | - **4.8.F** Determine the need for all maintenance supplies. The Maintenance | + | - **4.8.F** Determine the need for all maintenance supplies. The Facilities |
| - | - **4.8.G** Keep track of all House work and repairs and record these in the House maintenance log and report any irregularities to the SHC Executive Vice-President. | + | - **4.8.G** Notify, as a primary responsibility, |
| - | - **4.8.H** Notify, as a primary responsibility, | + | - **4.8.H** Officers should be able to answer |
| - | - **4.8.I** Officers should be able to answer | + | - **4.8.I** Consult with the House Finance Officer to determine the budget. |
| - | - **4.8.J** Consult with the House Finance Officer to determine | + | - **4.8.J** Be a point of reference for minor preventative maintenance. |
| - | - **4.8.K** Train the House members to do minor preventative maintenance, which the building and appliances need regularly. | + | - **4.8.K** Prepare for the Fire and City inspections. This entails attending the inspection dates with city officials and taking the initiative to bring the house into compliance. |
| - | - **4.8.L** Coordinate with the Chore Checker at least one (and no more than two) work weeks each semester. A list of activities for the work week(end) must be presented at a House meeting prior to the work week(end). Anyone that does not participate will be fined. | + | - **4.8.L** Set the house thermostat to no higher than 70 degrees in the winter (68 is recommended). |
| - | - **4.8.M** Prepare for the Fire and City inspections. This entails attending the inspection dates with city officials and taking the initiative to bring the house into compliance. | + | - **4.8.M** Ensure that all of the smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in the House are in proper working condition, and that the House has the proper distribution of them. |
| - | - **4.8.N** Consult the House on a house improvement project that will be covered by the yearly Maintenance Grant. It is a very important duty of the Maintenance Officer to ensure that at least one grant per year is given to Orion. | + | - **4.8.N** Inform the membership of and post an emergency fire escape plan in a common area. |
| - | - **4.8.O** Set the house thermostat to no higher than 70 degrees in the winter (68 is recommended). | + | - **4.8.O** Should be aware of and able to inform their house on major SHC capital |
| - | - **4.8.P** Ensure that all of the smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in the House are in proper working condition, and that the House has the proper distribution of them. | + | - **4.8.P** With the help of the Interim Coordinator, |
| - | - **4.8.Q** Inform the membership of and post an emergency fire escape plan in a common area. | + | - **4.8.Q** Serve as a backup to the Interim Coordinator in making certain all members have room and House keys. |
| - | - **4.8.R** Keep a log of the House furniture and its condition. Assessment of furniture in members’ rooms will be updated each time someone moves out, and an assessment of common area furniture will be done at the end of each contract period. Major damage to a piece of Orion furniture shall be charged to the member’s account, if they are at fault. | + | - **4.8.R** Receive 3 chore credit points per week. House can vote to lower chore credits if the Facilities Officer |
| - | - **4.8.S** Should be aware of and able to inform their house on major SHC capital | + | |
| - | - **4.8.T** With the help of the Interim Coordinator, | + | |
| - | - **4.8.U** Serve as a backup to the Interim Coordinator in making certain all members have room and House keys. | + | |
| - | - **4.8.V** Receive 3 chore credit points per week. House can vote to lower chore credits if maintenance officer | + | |
| - **4.9** The Membership Officer must: | - **4.9** The Membership Officer must: | ||
| - **4.9.A** As a primary responsibility, | - **4.9.A** As a primary responsibility, | ||
| - | - **4.9.B** | + | - **4.9.B** |
| - | - **4.9.C** Attend all SHC Membership Committee meetings to learn and share knowledge of how to find new members. | + | - **4.9.C** Should |
| - | - **4.9.D** Should be able to report | + | - **4.9.D** Attend all SHC Membership Committee meetings to learn and share knowledge of how to find new members. |
| - | - **4.9.E** Put new members’ names on the appropriate mail slot. The Membership Officer is responsible for ensuring each new member has a copy of the House Constitution and any other documents that may be useful in orienting a new member. | + | - **4.9.E** Report |
| - | - **4.9.F** Be aware of any policies enforced upon the House (i.e. pet policy, guest policy, harassment policy). | + | - **4.9.F** Put new members’ names on the appropriate mail slot. |
| - | - **4.9.G** Understand the definition of harassment and must work with the House President in fulfilling the obligations of the procedure | + | - **4.9.G** Be aware of any policies enforced upon the House (i.e. pet policy, guest policy, harassment policy). |
| - | - **4.9.H** Conflict | + | - **4.9.H** Understand the definition of harassment and must work with the House President in fulfilling the obligations of the Harassment Policy |
| - | - **4.9.I** Should be able to lead discussions on house culture/ | + | - **4.9.I** Work as a Conflict |
| - | - **4.9.J** Schedule room picks and keeping track of house seniority as laid out in Article | + | - **4.9.J** Lead discussions on House culture/ |
| - | - **4.9.K** Receive 4 chore credit points per week in the fall due to increased workload, 3 chore points a week in the spring and summer. | + | - **4.9.K** Schedule room picks and keeping track of house seniority as laid out in Article |
| + | - **4.9.L** Maintain a binder of House pet information (defined in Section 10.8). | ||
| + | - **4.9.M** Sort and organize all mail into its designated area. | ||
| + | - **4.9.N** Be an administrator for the House Discord Group. | ||
| + | - **4.9.O** Receive 4 chore credit points per week in the fall due to increased workload, 3 chore points a week in the spring and summer. | ||
| ====Article 5: Other House Positions==== | ====Article 5: Other House Positions==== | ||
| - | - **5.1** As stated in Article 2.4, members are required to perform 4 weekly chore credit points assigned by the Chore Checker on a weekly basis. All House Officers, as detailed in Article 4, receive 3 weekly chore credit points for their contributions to the house as an officer. | + | - **5.1** As stated in Article 2.4, members are required to perform 4 weekly chore credit points assigned by the Chore Checker on a weekly basis. |
| - **5.2** Aside from House Officers, there are other positions which earn chore credit points. Members may run for these positions at the start of each term, or whenever a position is otherwise open. Members who are elected into these positions will be expected to perform their outlined duties for the entire semester. The duties of those positions are as followed: | - **5.2** Aside from House Officers, there are other positions which earn chore credit points. Members may run for these positions at the start of each term, or whenever a position is otherwise open. Members who are elected into these positions will be expected to perform their outlined duties for the entire semester. The duties of those positions are as followed: | ||
| - | - **5.3** Chore Checker, must: | + | - **5.3** Chore Checker, must: |
| - **5.3.A** Maintain a list of all possible chores to be assigned, ensuring that chores are prioritized and on a rotation. | - **5.3.A** Maintain a list of all possible chores to be assigned, ensuring that chores are prioritized and on a rotation. | ||
| - **5.3.B** At the first house meeting of the term, announce a day and time that weekly chores will be due for the entire semester. Chores will be late after that time. | - **5.3.B** At the first house meeting of the term, announce a day and time that weekly chores will be due for the entire semester. Chores will be late after that time. | ||
| Line 201: | Line 212: | ||
| - **5.3.G** Post a list of all chore descriptions/ | - **5.3.G** Post a list of all chore descriptions/ | ||
| - **5.3.H** Ensure new members know how to do their chores, when to do them, and what the repercussions will be if they fail to do them. | - **5.3.H** Ensure new members know how to do their chores, when to do them, and what the repercussions will be if they fail to do them. | ||
| - | - **5.3.I** Keep a binder near the chore board with a detailed description of how to do each of the chores. | + | - **5.3.I** Work with the Facilities Officer in determining what duties should be performed during the work week. |
| - | - **5.3.J** Work with the Facilities Officer in determining what duties should be performed during the work week. | + | - **5.3.J** Create a practical door-duty list for each official house party, keeping practical security in mind for the preferred door duty times. |
| - | - **5.3.K** Create a practical door-duty list for each official house party, keeping practical security in mind for the preferred door duty times. | + | - **5.3.K** Towards the end of the month, the Chore Checker must report the list of fines/ |
| - | - **5.3.L** Towards the end of the month, the Chore Checker must report the list of fines/ | + | - **5.3.L** Be credited 4 chore points per week. |
| - | - **5.3.M** Be credited 4 chore points per week. | + | |
| - | - **5.4** House Shopper, must: | + | - **5.4** House Steward, must: |
| - | - **5.4.A** The house shopper | + | - **5.4.A** The House Steward |
| - | - **5.4.B** Be a signer on the Orion Bank Accounts, if s/he chooses | + | - **5.4.B** Be a signer on the Orion Bank Accounts, if they choose |
| - | - **5.4.C** Be compensated for gas in the form of $10 rent credit per month, unless the Shopper | + | - **5.4.C** Be compensated for gas in the form of $10 rent credit per month, unless the Steward |
| - | - **5.4.D** Consult with the Finance Officer regarding an appropriate food budget, at the start of each term. Furthermore, | + | - **5.4.D** Consult with the Finance Officer regarding an appropriate food budget, at the start of each term. Furthermore, |
| - **5.4.E** Ensure that all primary food staples are stocked every week, which include, but are not limited to: milk, eggs, butter/ | - **5.4.E** Ensure that all primary food staples are stocked every week, which include, but are not limited to: milk, eggs, butter/ | ||
| - **5.4.F** Attempt to accommodate the requests of the membership by buying requested items, whenever budgetarily possible and beneficial to members. | - **5.4.F** Attempt to accommodate the requests of the membership by buying requested items, whenever budgetarily possible and beneficial to members. | ||
| Line 222: | Line 232: | ||
| - **5.5.C** Submit all recycling money to the Finance Officer with a receipt within two days of the recycling trip. | - **5.5.C** Submit all recycling money to the Finance Officer with a receipt within two days of the recycling trip. | ||
| - **5.5.D** Be compensated for gas in the form of a $5/driver monthly rent credit, unless the Recycler fails to complete their duties. | - **5.5.D** Be compensated for gas in the form of a $5/driver monthly rent credit, unless the Recycler fails to complete their duties. | ||
| - | - **5.5.E** Be credited | + | - **5.5.E** Be credited |
| + | |||
| + | - **5.6** Keeper of the Counters, must: | ||
| + | - **5.6.A** Tidy, wipe, and clean the kitchen counters/ | ||
| + | - **5.6.B** Place unclaimed dishes in the kitchen sink. | ||
| + | - **5.6.C** Be credited 3 chore credit hours per week. | ||
| + | - **5.7** Keeper of the Trash, must: | ||
| + | - **5.7.A** Take out the trash from the Fire Room, Tree Room, second floor hallway, and kitchen on a daily basis or when needed to the dumpster and put a new bag in the trash can afterwards. | ||
| + | - **5.7.B** Request a new trash can when the current one is in complete disrepair. | ||
| + | - **5.7.C** Hose down the trash cans monthly, or as needed. | ||
| + | - **5.7.D** Be credited 3 chore credit hours per week. | ||
| + | - **5.8** House Laundry Officer, must: | ||
| + | - **5.8.A** Collect all of the towels and mats from bathrooms, blankets from the Fire Room, and the clothes in the bin in the laundry room and wash, dry, and put them back in their place weekly, or as needed. | ||
| + | - **5.8.B** Sweep/mop the laundry room every month. | ||
| + | - **5.8.C** Be credited 3 chore credit hours per week. | ||
| + | |||
| + | - **5.9** Keeper of the Compost, must: | ||
| + | - **5.9.A** Dump the compost two times weekly, or whenever needed. | ||
| + | - **5.9.B** Manage the compost area whenever needed. | ||
| + | - **5.9.C** Wash the bucket as needed. | ||
| + | - **5.9.D** Be credited 2 chore credit hours per week. | ||
| + | |||
| + | - **5.10** The 2 SHC Office Laborers, must: | ||
| + | - **5.10.A** Spend a SHC-decided number of hours per month laboring for the SHC Office. | ||
| + | - **5.10.B** Be credited 1 chore credit per person per week. | ||
| + | |||
| + | // | ||
| + | - **5.11** The 2 House Gardeners, must: | ||
| + | - **5.11.A** Maintain the house gardens, including but not limited to: watering them when necessary, cleaning out dead stuff, putting down compost, etc. | ||
| + | - **5.11.B** Ensure the yard is clean and in shape. | ||
| + | - **5.11.C** Ensure the lawn is mowed to the standards of the City of East Lansing (under 6 inches always). | ||
| + | - **5.11.D** Make the outside of our house as beautiful as the people inside of it. | ||
| + | - **5.11.E** Be credited 1 chore credit hour per person per week. | ||
| + | |||
| + | - **5.11** The 3 House Snow Shovelers, must: | ||
| + | - **5.12.A** Ensure the sidewalks, porches, driveway, and stairs are shoveled and salted at least 24 hours after it has snowed. | ||
| + | - **5.12.B** Be credited 1 chore credit hour per person | ||
| ====Article 6: Chores and Financial Obligations==== | ====Article 6: Chores and Financial Obligations==== | ||
| Line 229: | Line 275: | ||
| - **6.1.B** Members may “steal” (receive an equivalent credit) other members’ fines by completing the chores that were not done on time. However, any chore deemed “incomplete” (some effort was put forth) by the Chore Checker results in an automatic 24-hour extension to the member, of which the Chore Checker must notify the member directly, and add the extension to the lists of fines and extensions, with a brief explanation of what still needs to be done. | - **6.1.B** Members may “steal” (receive an equivalent credit) other members’ fines by completing the chores that were not done on time. However, any chore deemed “incomplete” (some effort was put forth) by the Chore Checker results in an automatic 24-hour extension to the member, of which the Chore Checker must notify the member directly, and add the extension to the lists of fines and extensions, with a brief explanation of what still needs to be done. | ||
| - **6.1.C** Suspected abuse of chore extensions may be brought forward by the Chore Checker at a house meeting, and the house can vote not to grant any further extensions to the member in question. | - **6.1.C** Suspected abuse of chore extensions may be brought forward by the Chore Checker at a house meeting, and the house can vote not to grant any further extensions to the member in question. | ||
| - | - **6.1.D** Chore fines are equivalent to $5 per point per week. | + | - **6.1.D** Chore fines are equivalent to $10 per point per week. |
| - **6.1.E** If a member fails to do their chores for roughly one month, chore checker may put your name on the house agenda under Rent Inquiry. If the member in question steals another member’s chore after failing to do their own, that will count towards their chores. | - **6.1.E** If a member fails to do their chores for roughly one month, chore checker may put your name on the house agenda under Rent Inquiry. If the member in question steals another member’s chore after failing to do their own, that will count towards their chores. | ||
| - **6.1.F** Any member may switch chores with another member, but failure to complete a chore will result in a fine to the member originally assigned to the chore, unless the Chore Checker was made aware of the switch before chores were due. | - **6.1.F** Any member may switch chores with another member, but failure to complete a chore will result in a fine to the member originally assigned to the chore, unless the Chore Checker was made aware of the switch before chores were due. | ||
| - | - **6.2** Every day, one to two members will be assigned dish duty, according to the dish duty calendar posted by the Chore Checker. The member performing dish duty may choose to wash dishes throughout the day, but the earliest that dish duty can be deemed complete is 7pm. The member then has from 7pm until noon the next day to put away all dry dishes in their correct places and wash all dirty dishes in the sink and surrounding area. Failure to complete dish duty on time will result in a $5 fine person per dish. After noon, any member may steal the fine, and write their name on the dish duty calendar on the previous day to indicate that they stole the dish day and will receive a $5 per person’s dish duty credit. | + | - **6.2** Every day, one to two members will be assigned dish duty, according to the dish duty calendar posted by the Chore Checker. The member performing dish duty may choose to wash dishes throughout the day, but the earliest that dish duty can be deemed complete is 7pm. The member then has from 7pm until noon the next day to put away all dry dishes in their correct places and wash all dirty dishes in the sink and surrounding area. Failure to complete dish duty on time will result in a $10 fine person per dish duty credit. After noon, any member may steal the fine, and write their name on the dish duty calendar on the previous day to indicate that they stole the dish day and will receive a $10 per person’s dish duty credit. |
| - | - **6.3** At the first House meeting of each term, the House shall offer input on the budget to be created by the Finance Officer. This budget should include all expected expenses; utility bills, SHC expenses (assessments), | + | - **6.3** At the first House meeting of each term, the House shall offer input on the budget to be created by the Finance Officer. This budget should include all expected expenses; utility bills, SHC expenses (assessments), |
| - **6.4** All house savings are not subject to member refund. Savings can only be spent on house improvements (not bills, or other normal expenses) approved by 2/3 current members at a normal house meeting. Any improvement must include a written financial and time/labor estimate to be presented at the House meeting. Any member may present a proposal to the House. | - **6.4** All house savings are not subject to member refund. Savings can only be spent on house improvements (not bills, or other normal expenses) approved by 2/3 current members at a normal house meeting. Any improvement must include a written financial and time/labor estimate to be presented at the House meeting. Any member may present a proposal to the House. | ||
| Line 248: | Line 294: | ||
| ====Article 7: Seniority==== | ====Article 7: Seniority==== | ||
| - | - **7.1** Seniority | + | - **7.1** |
| - | - **7.1.A** | + | - **7.1.A** |
| - | - **7.1.B** | + | - **7.1.B** |
| - | - **7.1.C** | + | - **7.1.C** |
| + | - **7.1.D** For each summer semester living in the SHC, but outside | ||
| + | - **7.1.E** If point totals are equal for two members, then their signing dates will be used to determine | ||
| - | - **7.2** The Orion contract signing deadline (for maintenance | + | - **7.2** The Membership Officer must establish a list of seniority |
| - | - **7.3** | + | - **7.3** |
| - | - **7.4** | + | - **7.4** |
| - | - **7.5** | + | - **7.5** |
| + | - **7.5.A** A member fails to adhere to a payment plan created as a result of a Rent Inquiry. | ||
| + | - **7.5.B** A member | ||
| + | - **7.5.C** A member changes rooms midway through the contract period. They will not be granted security for either room. | ||
| + | - **7.5.D** A member was given their room based on a sublease/ | ||
| - | - **7.6** | + | - **7.6** |
| - | - **7.6.A** A member | + | |
| - | - **7.6.B** A member fails to complete a 3-hour house improvement project created as punishment for failure to do chores. | + | |
| - | - **7.6.C** A member fails to sign a contract by Orion’s signing deadline. | + | |
| - | - **7.6.D** A member changes rooms midway through the contract period. They will not be granted security for either room. | + | |
| - | - **7.6.E** A member was given their room based on a sublease/ contract coverage; they did not choose their room at Room Picks. They only retain room security if they have been in that room since the start of the contract period. Otherwise, s/he will not be granted room security, because that member may not be high enough in seniority | + | |
| - | - **7.7** | + | - **7.7** |
| - | - **7.8** | + | - **7.8** |
| - | - **7.9** Parking assignments will be made by the House Board Representative at the beginning of each semester based primarily on seniority, and secondly on frequency of car use. There are nine parking spots in Orion’s lot, seven along the north side, and two on the west side. Each individual parking space in Orion’s lot will be assigned to a member. Orion has additional parking spots in Vesta (2), Beal (2), Raft Hill (1), Toad Lane (2), New Community (4). These houses are required by the SHC Code of Operations to grant parking to Orion members, whenever necessary. Orion will assign members’ cars to these locations, but not to individual parking spots. | + | - **7.9** Refrigerator and freezer space is chosen by the member with the help of the House Board Representative at the beginning of each semester. House Board Representative will make an effort to determine how much room each member needs, and assign space accordingly. All members are entitled to at least half of a shelf. Members are expected to use only the shelves assigned to them, unless negotiated with another member. Food cubbies will not be assigned by the house, but there are 24 cubbies, enough for each member; every member is entitled to a food cubby. Members who are leaving Orion, and fail to clean out their food cubby and/or fridge shelf space will have all its contents donated to Orion’s house food and supplies. |
| - | + | ||
| - | - **7.10** Once parking is assigned, members must adhere to the parking assignments (unless members agree to switch spots, etc.). Located near the parking assignment whiteboard, is a form for Orion Parking Violations. If someone in the house or someone’s friend is parking in the lot, membership may vote to fine that housemate $10 for the first time, $20 next time, $30 next time, etc. The “orion-vesta-beal park” Facebook group may be used as a resource to communicate parking questions, etc. | + | |
| - | + | ||
| - | - **7.11** Refrigerator and freezer space is chosen by the member with the help of the House Board Representative at the beginning of each semester. House Board Representative will make an effort to determine how much room each member needs, and assign space accordingly. All members are entitled to at least half of a shelf. Members are expected to use only the shelves assigned to them, unless negotiated with another member. Food cubbies will not be assigned by the house, but there are 24 cubbies, enough for each member; every member is entitled to a food cubby. Members who are leaving Orion, and fail to clean out their food cubby and/or fridge shelf space will have all its contents donated to Orion’s house food and supplies. | + | |
| ====Article 8: Harassment Policy==== | ====Article 8: Harassment Policy==== | ||
| - | - **8.1** Harassment is any kind of behavior towards a person which impairs the members full enjoyment of the benefits, climate, or opportunities of MSUSHC. | + | - **8.1** Harassment is any kind of behavior towards a person which impairs the members full enjoyment of the benefits, climate, or opportunities of SHC. |
| - **8.2** Harassment may include (but is not limited to) the following: | - **8.2** Harassment may include (but is not limited to) the following: | ||
| - **8.2.A** Malicious remarks or behavior towards another person. This is to include: | - **8.2.A** Malicious remarks or behavior towards another person. This is to include: | ||
| - **a)** Discriminatory behavior. For example, when harassment is in an active form. Such as pinching, caressing, touching, burning crosses, vandalism, etc. | - **a)** Discriminatory behavior. For example, when harassment is in an active form. Such as pinching, caressing, touching, burning crosses, vandalism, etc. | ||
| - | - **a)** Verbal or written insults. Including, but not limited to, discriminatory, | + | - **b)** Verbal or written insults. Including, but not limited to, discriminatory, |
| - | - **a)** Explicit verbal threats. When an individual' | + | - **c)** Explicit verbal threats. When an individual' |
| - **8.2.B** Physical intimidation, | - **8.2.B** Physical intimidation, | ||
| - **8.2.C** Unreasonable invasion of a person' | - **8.2.C** Unreasonable invasion of a person' | ||
| Line 309: | Line 352: | ||
| - **8.6** After the second allegation, an emergency meeting must be held within one week, with the option of inviting the SHC VP of Membership to facilitate. | - **8.6** After the second allegation, an emergency meeting must be held within one week, with the option of inviting the SHC VP of Membership to facilitate. | ||
| - | - **8.7** Both the accuser and the alleged accused have the option to appeal to the MSU SHC Membership Committee. | + | - **8.7** Both the accuser and the alleged accused have the option to appeal to the SHC Membership Committee. |
| - **8.8** Sanctions against the alleged harasser will be either fines or eviction, taking into consideration the outcome of the house meeting or the SHC Membership Committee meeting. | - **8.8** Sanctions against the alleged harasser will be either fines or eviction, taking into consideration the outcome of the house meeting or the SHC Membership Committee meeting. | ||
| Line 315: | Line 358: | ||
| - **8.9** Consent is a must. Consent is defined as permission for something to happen or agreement to do something. Consent must be given as a verbal, clear, and enthusiastic yes by all parties involved, given they are in a fair position to do so. Fair is defined as being able minded to make the decision and without pressure or influence to do so. Consent can be revoked or adjusted at anytime by anyone involved. | - **8.9** Consent is a must. Consent is defined as permission for something to happen or agreement to do something. Consent must be given as a verbal, clear, and enthusiastic yes by all parties involved, given they are in a fair position to do so. Fair is defined as being able minded to make the decision and without pressure or influence to do so. Consent can be revoked or adjusted at anytime by anyone involved. | ||
| - | - **8.10** The House has a blacklist | + | - **8.10** The House has a blocklist |
| + | - **8.10.A** The housemate that believes this person should be banned is to go to the conflict resolution team and all will sign the Blocklist Confidentiality Agreement if they want to remain anonymous. If a housemate does not feel comfortable, | ||
| + | - **8.10.B** If the Conflict Resolution Team does not feel like the situation is severe, they can divert the person bringing it up at a house vote. | ||
| + | - **8.10.C** Once someone is banned through the Conflict Resolution Team, they will announce in “Announcements” section of the following meeting that “The Conflict Resolution Committee has decided that [person] is blocklisted from the Haus of Orion for [pre-determined reason between all parties involved]“. | ||
| + | - **8.10.D** Once banned, they, their photo, and a brief yet clear reason is added to the Blocklist Document. | ||
| ====Article 9: Guest Policy==== | ====Article 9: Guest Policy==== | ||
| Line 321: | Line 368: | ||
| ====Article 10: Pet Policy==== | ====Article 10: Pet Policy==== | ||
| - | - **10.1** We declare ourselves an animal friendly house. By choosing to live in this house, you are agreeing to possibly live with any approved animals. The purpose of the Pet Policy is to allow members to keep uncaged animals while protecting the health and safety of members, and the physical condition of the house. Dogs that are not ESAs are not allowed in Orion because they are apt to cause extensive damage to the house, and pose a liability in the case of bites. Pet owners must submit a Pet Agreement so the SHC is aware of all pets living in the house and has assurance that every pet has been properly vaccinated. The barriers to submitting a Pet Agreement are low, thus any member that does not register its pets is subject to a harsh penalty by the SHC. | + | - **10.1** We declare ourselves an animal friendly house. By choosing to live in this house, you are agreeing to possibly live with any approved animals. The purpose of the Pet Policy is to allow members to keep uncaged animals while protecting the health and safety of members, and the physical condition of the house. Dogs that are not ESAs are not allowed in Orion because they are apt to cause extensive damage to the house, and pose a liability in the case of bites. Pet owners must submit a Pet Agreement so the SHC is aware of all pets living in the house and has assurance that every pet has been properly vaccinated. The barriers to submitting a Pet Agreement are low, thus any member that does not register its pets is subject to a harsh penalty by the SHC. |
| - | - **10.2** The term “pet” refers to all cats and other uncaged animals. Dogs are not allowed unless they are an ESA, except for visits, not to exceed one week, unless members are notified and vote to approve | + | - **10.2** The term “pet” refers to all cats and other uncaged animals. Dogs are not allowed unless they are an ESA, except for visits. Any visiting pet needs to be approved in an appropriate vote, that specifies |
| - | - **10.3** Orion shall not house more than one pet per every seven assessments, | + | - **10.3** Orion shall not house more than one pet per every seven assessments, |
| - **10.4** All pets must be registered with a single pet owner. | - **10.4** All pets must be registered with a single pet owner. | ||
| - **10.5** Each pet is subject to re-approval at the first house meeting of each semester. | - **10.5** Each pet is subject to re-approval at the first house meeting of each semester. | ||
| - | - **10.5.A** | + | - **10.5.A** |
| - **10.5.B** Re-approval is valid until the beginning of the next semester. The house cannot require the pet owner to remove the pet from the House until then. | - **10.5.B** Re-approval is valid until the beginning of the next semester. The house cannot require the pet owner to remove the pet from the House until then. | ||
| - | - **10.5.C** If exceptional circumstances exist (e.g., the pet is damaging the house or a member is allergic), the members may petition the Facilities Office to hold a re-approval vote before the next semester. | + | - **10.5.C** If exceptional circumstances exist (e.g., the pet is damaging the house), the members may petition the Facilities Office to hold a re-approval vote before the next semester. |
| - **10.5.D** If the House does not re-approve the pet, the pet owner has one month from the date of the House meeting to remove the animal from the House. | - **10.5.D** If the House does not re-approve the pet, the pet owner has one month from the date of the House meeting to remove the animal from the House. | ||
| - | - **10.5.E** If the pet poses a severe threat to the health or safety of House members, other house animals, or the physical condition of the House, the Facilities | + | - **10.5.E** If the pet poses a severe threat to the health or safety of House members, other house animals, or the physical condition of the House, the Membership |
| - **10.5.F** If the pet owner does not remove the pet by the deadline, the owner will be fined an initial $20 and an additional $5 per week that the pet remains in the house. | - **10.5.F** If the pet owner does not remove the pet by the deadline, the owner will be fined an initial $20 and an additional $5 per week that the pet remains in the house. | ||
| - **10.5.G** Refusal to remove an unapproved pet may be grounds for referral or expulsion. | - **10.5.G** Refusal to remove an unapproved pet may be grounds for referral or expulsion. | ||
| - | - **10.6** All pet owners must submit a Pet Agreement signed by the House Maintenance | + | - **10.6** All pet owners must submit a Pet Agreement signed by the House Membership |
| - **10.7** Any member with a current outstanding balance of over $100 may not file a Pet Agreement. | - **10.7** Any member with a current outstanding balance of over $100 may not file a Pet Agreement. | ||
| - | - **10.8** | + | - **10.8** |
| + | - **10.8.A** The Membership Officer shall maintain a binder with all information provided in this clause for all pets residing within the home that can be accessed by any member upon request. | ||
| - **10.9** Any costs from damages attributed to the pet, or non compliance with removal will be the responsibility of the pet owner and will be assessed to the owner by the Finance Officer on the charge sheet. | - **10.9** Any costs from damages attributed to the pet, or non compliance with removal will be the responsibility of the pet owner and will be assessed to the owner by the Finance Officer on the charge sheet. | ||
| Line 349: | Line 397: | ||
| ====Article 11: Party Policy==== | ====Article 11: Party Policy==== | ||
| - | - **11.1** A house-sponsored party is defined by these five conditions: the party has a theme, the party was approved by a ¾ majority at a regular house meeting, the party is advertised, the party takes place in a communal area of the house, the party has amplified music. | + | - **11.1** A house-sponsored party is defined by these five conditions: the party has a theme, the party was approved by a ¾ majority at a regular house meeting, the party is advertised, the party takes place in a communal area of the house, the party has live or amplified music. |
| - **11.2** All house parties must be voted on and approved at a house meeting by at least a ¾ majority, as stated in the SHC Code of Operations. | - **11.2** All house parties must be voted on and approved at a house meeting by at least a ¾ majority, as stated in the SHC Code of Operations. | ||
| Line 358: | Line 406: | ||
| - **11.3** The house members who participate in the party must also participate in the set up, clean up, and security of the party. | - **11.3** The house members who participate in the party must also participate in the set up, clean up, and security of the party. | ||
| - **11.3.A** The Chore Checker shall create a sign-up sheet in order to designate members for party set up and clean up. Members may sign up for their prefered task. | - **11.3.A** The Chore Checker shall create a sign-up sheet in order to designate members for party set up and clean up. Members may sign up for their prefered task. | ||
| - | - **11.3.B** The Chore Checker will also create a door duty list (not open sign up, assigned by the CC), keeping in mind logistics (ensuring at least one guy in each time slot). | + | - **11.3.B** The Chore Checker will also create a door duty list, keeping in mind logistics (ensuring at least one member who has previously worked door duty is in each time slot). |
| - **11.3.C** Any participating member who does not complete their specific duty as defined by the Chore Checker shall receive a fine of $10. | - **11.3.C** Any participating member who does not complete their specific duty as defined by the Chore Checker shall receive a fine of $10. | ||
| - | - **11.4** A party is subject to being stopped or cancelled | + | - **11.4** A party is subject to being stopped or canceled |
| - **11.5** A party shall be defined as an official house gathering that is voted on by the house members and as defined in the SHC Party Policy in the SHC Code of Operations. This status requires that house members recognize and follow the specific traits and responsibilities described in this section of the house constitution as well as those of the SHC Party Policy in the SHC Code of Operations. | - **11.5** A party shall be defined as an official house gathering that is voted on by the house members and as defined in the SHC Party Policy in the SHC Code of Operations. This status requires that house members recognize and follow the specific traits and responsibilities described in this section of the house constitution as well as those of the SHC Party Policy in the SHC Code of Operations. | ||
| - | - **11.6** Due to legal and safety reasons, the preferred | + | - **11.6** Due to legal and safety reasons, the distribution of alcohol will be BYOB (bring your own booze). |
| - | - **11.6.A** If house members decide to make alcohol available (as in a keg, jungle juice, or other community sources of alcohol), the Chore Checker must designate a person or peoples to act as a “kegmaster”. The responsibility of this job will be to ensure that any person consuming | + | - **11.6.A** If house members decide to make alcohol available (as in a keg, jungle juice, or other community sources of alcohol), the Chore Checker must designate a person or peoples to act as a “kegmaster”. The responsibility of this job will be to ensure that any person consuming the house alcohol is a member or special guest of the house and is of legal standing. The other responsibility of the kegmaster is to ensure that no one adds additional alcohol or other substances to the communal alcohol source. |
| - **11.6.B** The house may never use budgeted house funds to buy alcohol. However, recycling money may be used to buy house kegs or booze. If sufficient recycling money is not available, it is recommended that the house not provide house alcohol for a party, until funds become available. | - **11.6.B** The house may never use budgeted house funds to buy alcohol. However, recycling money may be used to buy house kegs or booze. If sufficient recycling money is not available, it is recommended that the house not provide house alcohol for a party, until funds become available. | ||
| - | - **11.7** | + | - **11.7** |
| ====Article 12: Miscellaneous==== | ====Article 12: Miscellaneous==== | ||
| - **12.1** Smoking of any kind is not allowed in Orion House. | - **12.1** Smoking of any kind is not allowed in Orion House. | ||
| - | - **12.2 | + | - **12.2 |
| - | - **12.2.A** If any major sporting or other event is going on, such as an MSU football game, that event will take priority over regular television programs, unless those watching the TV do not express interest in the event. | + | - **12.3.B** No member |
| - | - **12.2.B** No member | + | - **12.3.C** Members should |
| - | - **12.2.C** DVR recordings will be deleted after one month. No member should delete the recorded show of another member before that time. | + | |
| - | - **12.2.D** Any group of members watching TV may informally vote on the preferred show to watch. | + | |
| - | - **12.2.E** The house will only pay for one cable box in a common area. Members should | + | |
| - | - **12.2.F** The door to common areas (between | + | |
| - | - **12.3 | + | - **12.3 |
| - | - **12.3.A** | + | - **12.3.A** |
| - | - **12.3.B** | + | - **12.3.B** |
| - | - **12.3.C** | + | - **12.3.C** |
| - | - **12.3.D** | + | - **12.3.D** |
| - | - **12.4 | + | - **12.4 |
| - | - **12.4.A** The house will maintain a house Facebook group for the purpose | + | - **12.4.A** The house will vote on quiet hours at the beginning |
| - | - **12.4.B** | + | - **12.4.B** |
| - | - **12.4.C** | + | - **12.4.C** |
| - | - **12.4.D** | + | - **12.4.D** |
| - | - **12.5 | + | - **12.5 |
| - | - **12.5.A** The house will vote on quiet hours at the beginning of each semester, ensuring that quiet hours begin later during | + | - **12.5.A** The house will maintain a bookshelf in a common area, for the free usage of all members and guests. |
| - | - **12.5.B** | + | - **12.5.B** |
| - | - **12.5.C** | + | - **12.5.C** |
| - | - **12.5.D** | + | - **12.5.D** |
| - | - **12.6 | + | - **12.6 Paint Policy** |
| - | - **12.6.A** The house will maintain a bookshelf in a common area, for the free usage of all members and guests. | + | - **12.6.A** Any painting done in common areas should be a preconceived mural of some kind. The painter must get approval from the house (majority vote at a meeting) regarding location, size, budget, and the general idea of the mural. The painter should show reasonable progress after getting house approval, and the mural should be finished by a date negotiated during the initial proposal discussion. If the membership does not like the mural after it is finished, or if a member painted something without prior house approval, it will be the job of the painter to edit or paint over the mural. |
| - | - **12.6.B** Any member may donate books to the house library, and any member may borrow books freely. Borrowing time should not exceed one month, unless no other member wants the book. | + | - **a)** If the mural is not finished by the date negotiated or the painter does not edit or paint over the mural if requested by the membership in a timely manner, sanctions shall be discussed at the next regular house meeting. |
| - | - **12.6.C** No member shall sell house books for personal profit. | + | - **12.6.B** Any Member who decides to paint their room in any way, will be subject to a house vote to determine whether the room needs to be repainted by that member at the end of that member’s tenure, for the sake of attractiveness and viability for future members of a particular room. The Facilities Officer will be responsible for bringing this concern before the house at a regularly scheduled house meeting |
| - | - **12.6.D** Orion house documents and resources will be kept in the house library. | + | |
| - | + | ||
| - | - **12.7 | + | |
| - | - **12.7.A** Any painting done in common areas should be a preconceived mural of some kind. The painter must get approval from the house (majority vote at a meeting) regarding location, size, and the general idea of the mural. The painter should show reasonable progress after getting house approval, and the mural should be finished by a date negotiated during the initial proposal discussion. If the membership does not like the mural after it is finished, or if a member painted something without prior house approval, it will be the job of the painter to edit or paint over the mural. | + | |
| - | - **12.7.B** Any Member who decides to paint their room in any way, will be subject to a house vote to determine whether the room needs to be repainted by that member at the end of that member’s tenure, for the sake of attractiveness and viability for future members of a particular room. The Facilities Officer will be responsible for bringing this concern before the house at a regularly scheduled house meeting. | + | |
| - **a)** If a house decides that a room painted by its current resident should be repainted, that member shall be responsible for the labor and cost of repainting the room before that member moves out. | - **a)** If a house decides that a room painted by its current resident should be repainted, that member shall be responsible for the labor and cost of repainting the room before that member moves out. | ||
| - | - **a)** If the room in question is not repainted by that member within two weeks of the end of that resident’s contract, that member will be considered non-compliant and $50 will be deducted from their member shares, to be given to the house for labor and materials. | + | - **b)** If the room in question is not repainted by that member within two weeks of the end of that resident’s contract, that member will be considered non-compliant and $50 will be deducted from their member shares, to be given to the house for labor and materials. |
| - | - **a)** If a House decides that a room be repainted and the current resident does not comply, the Maintenance | + | - **c)** If a House decides that a room be repainted and the current resident does not comply, the Facilities |
| - | - **12.8 PACE Violations** | + | - **12.7 Energy Conservation** |
| - | - **12.8.A** In the unfortunate case that Orion is cited for a PACE violation, the charge will be filed under the “Contingency” line item in the house budget. | + | - **12.7.A** All house members are expected to turn off all lights and appliances/ |
| - | - **12.8.B** If the violation was a direct result | + | - **12.7.B** Showers should not exceed 20 minutes in length, for the purpose |
| + | - **12.7.C** Members should only wash full loads of laundry, because washing small loads wastes water. | ||
| + | - **12.7.D** House thermostat should never be set higher than 70 degrees; 68 degrees will serve as the default in the winter. During winter break, | ||
| + | - **12.7.E** Members may vote to charge for personal appliances such as mini-fridges, | ||
| + | - **12.7.F** During long breaks, when members are not in the house (winter break, spring break, vacations, etc), they are expected to unplug all cords from outlets, to cut down on electricity costs. | ||
| - | - **12.9 Energy Conservation** | + | - **12.8 Gun Policy** |
| - | - **12.9.A** All house members are expected to turn off all lights and appliances/ | + | |
| - | - **12.9.B** Showers should not exceed 20 minutes in length, for the purpose of water conservation and bathroom availability. | + | |
| - | - **12.9.C** Members should only wash full loads of laundry, because washing small loads wastes water. | + | |
| - | - **12.9.D** House thermostat should never be set higher than 70 degrees; 68 degrees will serve as the default in the winter. During winter break, or any time when most members are away from the house, the thermostat should be set to 60 degrees. The gas bill is one of the largest bills the house has to pay, so it is important to be conscious of the thermostat setting. Only the Facilities Officer may adjust the thermostat; any member who has been found to adjust the thermostat to over 70 degrees will be fined $20. | + | |
| - | - **12.9.E** Members may vote to charge for personal appliances such as mini-fridges, | + | |
| - | - **12.9.F** During long breaks, when members are not in the house (winter break, spring break, vacations, etc), they are expected to unplug all cords from outlets, to cut down on electricity costs. | + | |
| - | + | ||
| - | - **12.10 | + | |
| - Members shall not bring any of the following items into the house: firearms, ammunition, explosives, or any inherently dangerous property. | - Members shall not bring any of the following items into the house: firearms, ammunition, explosives, or any inherently dangerous property. | ||
| - | |||
| - | - **12.11 House Norms** | ||
| - | - The house must hold meetings each semester to establish or redefine house norms. House norms are defined in the “Orion House Norms” document in the house Google Doc. Membership may impose a penalty based on the severity and importance deemed by the Membership. Violation of the most current established house norms may result in a fine, and/or eviction. | ||
| ====Article 13: Amendments==== | ====Article 13: Amendments==== | ||
| Line 438: | Line 470: | ||
| ====Article 14: Scope==== | ====Article 14: Scope==== | ||
| - **14.1** This Constitution supersedes all previous constitutions and all policies at variance with it. Except where delimited in this Constitution, | - **14.1** This Constitution supersedes all previous constitutions and all policies at variance with it. Except where delimited in this Constitution, | ||
| + | |||
house_documents/constitutions/orion.1576270966.txt.gz · Last modified: 2019/12/13 13:02 by eo_orion