SHC Policy Wiki

User Tools

Site Tools

house_documents:constitutions:phoenix

Differences

This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.

Link to this comparison view

Both sides previous revisionPrevious revision
Next revision		Previous revision
house_documents:constitutions:phoenix [2023/02/27 11:16] – vp_educationhouse_documents:constitutions:phoenix [2024/11/26 15:56] (current) – fixed more formating eo_phoenix
Line 1: Line 1:
 =====PHOENIX HAUS CONSTITUTION===== =====PHOENIX HAUS CONSTITUTION=====
 +
 +<WRAP center round box 68%>
 +**TABLE OF CONTENTS**
 +
 +Mission statement Governance Glossary 1. Membership Conditions 2. Membership Responsibilities and Duties 3. House Meetings 4. House Officers 5. Financial Obligations 6. Rooms Assignments + Parking 7. Paint and Decoration Policy 8. Harassment Policy 9. Guest and Party Policy 10.Fines and Penalties 11.Jobs Policy 12.Drug Policy 13.Amendments 14.Pet Policy 15.Scope 
 +</WRAP>
  
 <WRAP center round box 68%> <WRAP center round box 68%>
 **MISSION STATEMENT** **MISSION STATEMENT**
  
-The mission of Phoenix Haus is to create a cooperative intentional living community built on equality, consent, wellbeing, and accountability of its members for the benefit and sustainability of the haus, and the student housing cooperative as a whole.+We are Phoenix Haus! The mission we strive to embody is to create a cooperative intentional community that provides a culture ensuring living and learning to uphold the ideals of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. The members of this house along with the property of the house will serve as a space that prioritizes the needs of those from marginalized experiences within the Spartan Housing Cooperative along with opening up the cooperative framework to people outside of our organization from marginalized backgrounds. 
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
Line 10: Line 16:
 **GOVERNANCE** **GOVERNANCE**
  
-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. At the same time, the house is encouraged to keep this constitution modern, and in keeping with the values of the house and its ever-changing members. This constitution can always be altered upon a discussion, and a quorum vote in favor of the change(s). This constitution must also be in keeping with The Student Housing Corporation Code of Operations, By-laws, and/or decisions of the SHC Board of Directors. Decisions will be made by majority vote at House meetings as defined in this Constitution. +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. At the same time, the house is encouraged to keep this constitution modern, and in keeping with the values of the house and its ever-changing members. This constitution can always be altered upon a discussion, and a quorum vote in favor of the change(s). This constitution must also be in keeping with The Spartan Housing Cooperative of Operations, By-laws, and/or decisions of the SHC Board of Directors. Decisions will be made by majority vote at House meetings as defined in this Constitution. 
 +</WRAP> 
 + 
 +<WRAP center round box 68%> 
 +**GLOSSARY** 
 + 
 +  * Term: A four month period used to determine seniority, fouls/violations, and other time sensitive things. There are three in a year: Fall (September to December), Spring (January to April), Summer (May to August)  
 +  * Year: The contract period. Lasting from contract start date to contract end date.  
 +  * Work Week: A dedicated time organized by the Jobs Officer to deep clean the entirety of the house. 
 +  * House: The physical building. 
 +  * Haus: The household: including the building, the members, and their shared prosperity. 
 +  * Intimacy: Haus events or parties that are housemate only events
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
Line 39: Line 56:
  
   - **Section 2.2** Attendance at house meetings is mandatory. Members may be excused from House meetings by submitting written or verbal notice to the Education Officer. Authority is given to the Education Coordinator to approve or dismiss excuses. Each unapproved excuse shall be considered an unexcused absence. For each unexcused absence, members will be charged a fine of $5. If missing meetings becomes a recurring problem, the Membership Coordinator will reach out to the housemate.    - **Section 2.2** Attendance at house meetings is mandatory. Members may be excused from House meetings by submitting written or verbal notice to the Education Officer. Authority is given to the Education Coordinator to approve or dismiss excuses. Each unapproved excuse shall be considered an unexcused absence. For each unexcused absence, members will be charged a fine of $5. If missing meetings becomes a recurring problem, the Membership Coordinator will reach out to the housemate. 
-    - **Section 2.2.1** Any unexcused absence from a Regular House Meeting calls for a House vote on expulsion proceedings. The member may be expelled by a majority vote of total current membership. If a member misses a third meeting in a contract period without an excuse, the necessary vote for expulsion will drop from majority vote to 1/3 vote of total current membership. The House Treasurer shall be responsible for immediately taking steps to evict expelled members.+    - **Section 2.2.1** If a member accumulates TWO unexcused absences in one term, there would start a house conflict resolution process with the Board Representative acting on behalf of the house. Should a third or more unexcused absences occur an official grievance with the SHC will be filed by the Board Representative on behalf of the house and may result in expulsion of the member.
  
-  - **Section 2.3** Members are required to perform a minimum of 4 weekly credit points of work duty. Each member must also complete a designated amount of general house improvement during each of Phoenix House’s Work Weeks (See Article VII XI). Work duties and general improvement are required as part of the member’s contract in keeping with the cooperative principle of keeping costs down by substituting labor for capital.+  - **Section 2.3** Members are required to perform an amount of chore points determined in Appendix A of work duty. Each member must also complete a designated amount of general house improvement during each of Phoenix House’s Work Weeks (See Job Policy and Appendix A) and any house improvement work (including preventive maintenance) assigned by the Facilities Officer. Work duties and general improvement are required as part of the member’s contract in keeping with the cooperative principle of keeping costs down by substituting labor for capital.
  
-  - **Section 2.4** If a house member wishes to prematurely break their membership contract, it is the member’s responsibility to find a replacement. Financial responsibility will end on the date the replacing member contractually begins their lease. Any ‘potential’ new member must meet all Phoenix House membership conditions. In the case of a double room vacancy the ‘potential’ new member must be OK’d by the remaining roommate. Any objections must be submitted to the Membership Coordinator. Another route to prematurely breaking a membership contract is to sign an early release form, and pay three full months of charges to the SHC. **SPECIAL NOTE:** If a person breaks their contract they may have to fill a space in another room due to seniority-based room selection.+  - **Section 2.4** If a house member wishes to prematurely break their membership contract, it is the member’s responsibility to find a replacement. Financial responsibility will end on the date the replacing member contractually begins their contract. Any ‘potential’ new member must meet all Phoenix House membership conditions. In the case of a double room vacancy the ‘potential’ new member must be OK’d by the remaining roommate. Any objections must be submitted to the Membership Officer. Another route to prematurely breaking a membership contract is to sign an early release form, and pay three full months of charges to the SHC. *SPECIAL NOTE*: If a person breaks their contract they may have to fill a space in another room due to seniority-based room selection.
  
 ====ARTICLE III: HOUSE MEETINGS==== ====ARTICLE III: HOUSE MEETINGS====
Line 50: Line 67:
   - **Section 3.2** A quorum of ‘current members’ must be present for voting to take place, except at special House meetings as described below.    - **Section 3.2** A quorum of ‘current members’ must be present for voting to take place, except at special House meetings as described below. 
  
-  - **Section 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 arranged within a week of that first meeting for the whole term. This schedule is set for the rest of the term, and shall be revoted on the start of each new term.+  - **Section 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 arranged within a week of that first meeting for the whole term. This schedule is set for the rest of the term, and shall be re-voted on during the start of each new term.
  
   - **Section 3.4** Quorum is defined as 50% plus one of current members of the House. Motions passed at regular House meetings with quorum shall be binding on all members, guests, and visitors to Phoenix House. Quorum will not be required for emergency meetings.   - **Section 3.4** Quorum is defined as 50% plus one of current members of the House. Motions passed at regular House meetings with quorum shall be binding on all members, guests, and visitors to Phoenix House. Quorum will not be required for emergency meetings.
  
-  - **Section 3.5** Emergency meetings are run the same manner as regular House Meetings, are also mandatory, but are arranged on a day that is not on the schedule agreed upon in the beginning of the semester. Any member may call an Emergency Meeting. In the event that the inability to raise quorum has impaired the House’s ability to address issues, the Membership Coordinator 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. +  - **Section 3.5** Emergency meetings are run the same manner as regular House Meetings, are also mandatory, but are arranged on a day that is not on the schedule agreed upon in the beginning of the semester. Any member may call an Emergency Meeting. In the event that the inability to raise quorum has impaired the House’s ability to address issues, the 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.
  
   - **Section 3.6** The first meeting will be held the first weekend after move in.    - **Section 3.6** The first meeting will be held the first weekend after move in. 
  
-  - **Section 3.7** Any member with meeting facilitation experience may facilitate the first meeting of the semester.+  - **Section 3.7** The interim coordinator, required by the SHC and voting in by the house, shall facilitate the first house meeting.
  
-  - **Section 3.8** The house agenda for the following week will be made at the end of each house meeting, after, or part of new business. Suggested topics for the next week’s meeting will be recorded by the Education Coordinator, and left in the house google drive so that housemates may add more topics that they want to address as the week progresses. The following items will be on every House agenda:  +  - **Section 3.8** The house agenda for the following week will be made at the end of each house meeting, after, or part of new business. Suggested topics for the next week’s meeting will be recorded by the Education Officer, and left in a public and accessible place so that housemates may add more topics that they want to address as the week progresses. The following items will be on every House agenda:  
-    - **A.** ATTENDANCE +    - **A.** Attendance 
-    - **B.** COORDINATOR REPORTS (in no specific order)+    - **B.** Voting 
 +    - **C.** Charge Inquiry 
 +    - **D.** Old Business 
 +    - **E.** New Business 
 +    - **F.** Coordinator Reports (in no specific order)
       - **a.** Education Officer       - **a.** Education Officer
       - **b.** Finance Officer       - **b.** Finance Officer
Line 68: Line 89:
       - **d.** Membership Officer       - **d.** Membership Officer
       - **e.** Jobs Officer       - **e.** Jobs Officer
-      - **f.** Maintenance Officer +      - **f.** Facilities Officer 
-    - **C.** CHARGE INQUIRY +      - **g.** Events Coordinator 
-    - **D.** FINE APPEALS +      - **h.** Community & Justice Coordinator
-    - **E.** OLD BUSINESS +
-    - **F.** NEW BUSINESS +
-    - **G.** MEMBERS’ PRIVILEGE+
  
   - **Section 3.9** House meetings must not last longer than 2 hours, unless the meeting is extended by a 2/3 vote of members present. If the meeting extends past 2 hours, the house must take a 10-minute break before proceeding.    - **Section 3.9** House meetings must not last longer than 2 hours, unless the meeting is extended by a 2/3 vote of members present. If the meeting extends past 2 hours, the house must take a 10-minute break before proceeding. 
Line 82: Line 100:
  
 ====ARTICLE IV: HOUSE COORDINATOR==== ====ARTICLE IV: HOUSE COORDINATOR====
-  - **Section 4.1** The House Officers shall consist of the: Education Coordinator, Jobs Coordinator, Maintenance Coordinator, Membership Coordinator, Finance Coordinator, The Steward, and SHC Board of Directors Representatives+  - **Section 4.1** The House Officers shall consist of the: Education Coordinator, Jobs Coordinator, Maintenance Coordinator, Membership Coordinator, Finance Coordinator, The Steward, SHC Board of Directors Representatives, Events Officer, and Community & Justice Officer
  
-  - **Section 4.2** Coordinators must be elected for each term at the First House Meeting of the term. Job descriptions must be made available to all members from the day of move- in. Phoenix House Coordinators will be elected by a majority vote. Coordinators serve until the end of the term, they are replaced or no longer reside in the house, in order to ensure harmonious operation of the House. This extends responsibilities to cover all periods between house meetings and over breaks/vacations. +  - **Section 4.2** Officers must be elected for each year at the First House Meeting of the year, officers must be reaffirmed every term. Job descriptions must be made available to all members from the day of move- in. Phoenix House Officers will be elected by a majority vote. Officers serve until the end of the year, they are replaced or no longer reside in the house, in order to ensure harmonious operation of the House. This extends responsibilities to cover all periods between house meetings and over breaks/vacations. 
  
   - **Section 4.3** Any coordinator may be recalled by a majority vote if the issue is announced on a meeting agenda. The coordinator in question may not facilitate the meeting. All recall votes shall be anonymous.    - **Section 4.3** Any coordinator may be recalled by a majority vote if the issue is announced on a meeting agenda. The coordinator in question may not facilitate the meeting. All recall votes shall be anonymous. 
  
-  - **Section 4.4** All House Coordinators 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 Coordinator should report on Vacancies, Jobs Coordinator on Job performance and fines issued, etc.) +  - **Section 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, Jobs Officer on Job performance and fines issued, etc. See Appendix B) 
  
   - **Section 4.5** The Education Officer (EO) shall:   - **Section 4.5** The Education Officer (EO) shall:
Line 94: Line 112:
     - **b.** Attend all Education meetings or send a substitute. Any fines for not attending will be charged to their account.     - **b.** Attend all Education meetings or send a substitute. Any fines for not attending will be charged to their account.
     - **c.** Contributing to or coordinating the contributions of Phoenix House to the Pine Press.      - **c.** Contributing to or coordinating the contributions of Phoenix House to the Pine Press. 
-    - **d.** Help alongside the Membership Coordinator to resolve any disputes among the membership. +    - **d.** Sit on the conflict resolution team. 
     - **e.** 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 meeting of the term. If no changes are to be made, the constitutions then the current constitution should be approved at that meeting, or input should be taken from the membership if they do not approve. The EC will continue to present changes at the meetings until the membership approves them by a 2/3 majority.      - **e.** 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 meeting of the term. If no changes are to be made, the constitutions then the current constitution should be approved at that meeting, or input should be taken from the membership if they do not approve. The EC will continue to present changes at the meetings until the membership approves them by a 2/3 majority. 
     - **f.** Record the House meeting minutes, type them in a consistent format for future reference, and share them in an accessible way to all members of the house. Minutes should include all motions and vote tallies and relevant discussions. They must also include a roll call of members present. *They must be posted within 48 hours.      - **f.** Record the House meeting minutes, type them in a consistent format for future reference, and share them in an accessible way to all members of the house. Minutes should include all motions and vote tallies and relevant discussions. They must also include a roll call of members present. *They must be posted within 48 hours. 
Line 103: Line 121:
   - **Section 4.6** The Jobs Officer (JO) shall:    - **Section 4.6** The Jobs Officer (JO) shall: 
     - **a.** Make sure that all House jobs are done on time and properly.      - **a.** Make sure that all House jobs are done on time and properly. 
 +           - 1. Job descriptions are written by the jobs officer and presented to the house.
     - **b.** Maintain and update the current job system of the house. Under the current “point” system: the Jobs Officer will track which member is assigned to each house job. This includes tracking who has completed office labor and the amount of hours logged.      - **b.** Maintain and update the current job system of the house. Under the current “point” system: the Jobs Officer will track which member is assigned to each house job. This includes tracking who has completed office labor and the amount of hours logged. 
-    - **c.** Post when jobs will be checked, up for steals, and fine accordingly. The JO may warn or fine members at their discretion when a job is not done correctly. If a member fails to do the job, the member will be fined. (Fine amount is indicated in Article IX: Fines) +           - 1. Each house member gets an even distribution of chore points as possible 
 +    - **c.** Post when jobs will be checked, up for steals, and fine accordingly. The Jobs Officer may warn or fine members at their discretion when a job is not done correctly. If a member fails to do the job, the member will be fined. (Fine amount is indicated in Article IX: Fines) 
     - **d.** Ensure new members know how to do their jobs, when to do them, and what the repercussions will be if they fail to do them.      - **d.** Ensure new members know how to do their jobs, when to do them, and what the repercussions will be if they fail to do them. 
     - **e.** Inspect the house once a week for cleanliness and potential problems.     - **e.** Inspect the house once a week for cleanliness and potential problems.
-    - **f.** Coordinate at least one (and no more than two) work weeks each semester. A list of activities for the work week must be presented at a House meeting prior to the work weekend.+    - **f.** Coordinate at least one (and no more than two) work weeks each semester. A list of activities for the work week must be presented at a House meeting prior to the work weekend. (See Jobs Policy for more information)
  
   - **Section 4.7** The Facilities Officer (FO) shall:    - **Section 4.7** The Facilities Officer (FO) shall: 
     - **a.** Be responsible for the oversight of maintenance and upkeep of the physical House.      - **a.** Be responsible for the oversight of maintenance and upkeep of the physical House. 
-    - **b.** Ensure that all House duties that involve maintenance are done in a proper fashion. The Facilities Coordinator will be notified of any negligence and they may issue a warning. *Further negligence will result in a fine. +    - **b.** Ensure that all House duties that involve maintenance are done in a proper fashion. The Facilities Coordinator will be notified of any negligence and they may issue a warning. *Further negligence will result in a fine.(i.e. assigning someone to replace ceiling tiles/light bulbs, assigning preventative maintenance chores) 
-    - **c.** Determine the need for all maintenance supplies. The Facilities officer shall be authorized to spend House maintenance funds with prior consent given by the Finance Officer and house approval of any purchases over $30, taking care not to deplete the term’s budget. +    - **c.** Determine the need for all maintenance supplies. The Facilities officer shall be authorized to spend House maintenance funds with prior consent given by the Finance Officer and house approval of any purchases over $30, taking care not to deplete the budget. 
-    - **d.** Keep track of all House work and repairs and record these in the House maintenance log and report any irregularities to the SHC Vice- President of Facilities or SHC Facilities Coordinator.+    - **d.** Keep track of all House work and repairs and record these in the House maintenance log and report any irregularities to the SHC Vice- President of Facilities or SHC Maintenance Dispatch.
     - **e.** Make sure that all SHC Facilities Committee meetings are attended. Any fine due to non-attendance will be charged to the maintenance officer’s account. A report of actions must be given at each house meeting.     - **e.** Make sure that all SHC Facilities Committee meetings are attended. Any fine due to non-attendance will be charged to the maintenance officer’s account. A report of actions must be given at each house meeting.
     - **f.** Notify, as a primary responsibility, the SHC office of any maintenance problems, the house is unable to solve within its own budget and labor pool.     - **f.** Notify, as a primary responsibility, the SHC office of any maintenance problems, the house is unable to solve within its own budget and labor pool.
     - **g.** Establish a hierarchy of contact persons to cope with problems in the absence of the Phoenix House FC.      - **g.** Establish a hierarchy of contact persons to cope with problems in the absence of the Phoenix House FC. 
     - **h.** Consult with the SHC and Finance Officer on the amount of each semester’s maintenance budget before the House passes the budget.     - **h.** Consult with the SHC and Finance Officer on the amount of each semester’s maintenance budget before the House passes the budget.
-    - **i.** Encourage house members to do minor preventative maintenance, which the building and appliances need regularly. +    - **i.** Encourage house members to do minor preventative maintenance, which the building and appliances need regularly.(i.e. cleaning bathroom fan vents) 
-    - **j.** 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. +    - **j.** Prepare for the Fire and City inspections. This entails attending the inspection dates with city officials, assigning tasks in preparation for the inspection, and taking the initiative to bring the house into compliance.
     - **k.** 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. Inform the membership of and post an emergency fire escape plan in a common area.     - **k.** 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. Inform the membership of and post an emergency fire escape plan in a common area.
     - **l.** Keep a log of the House furniture and its condition. This will be updated each time someone checks out. Major damage to a piece of Phoenix furniture shall be charged to the member’s account.      - **l.** Keep a log of the House furniture and its condition. This will be updated each time someone checks out. Major damage to a piece of Phoenix furniture shall be charged to the member’s account. 
     - **m.** Inspect rooms each time someone moves out and keep a record of their condition.     - **m.** Inspect rooms each time someone moves out and keep a record of their condition.
 +**In the event of two Facilities Officers, there will be a repair focused officer and a preventative maintenance focused officer**
 +
 +  - **Preventive officer shall:**
 +  - **a.** Make sure that all SHC Facilities Committee meetings are attended. Any fine due to non-attendance will be charged to the maintenance officer’s account. A report of actions must be given at each house meeting.
 +  - **b.** Establish a hierarchy of contact persons to cope with problems in the absence of the Phoenix House FC.
 +  - **c.** Consult with the SHC and Finance Officer on the amount of each semester’s maintenance budget before the House passes the budget.
 +  - **d.** Consult with the SHC and Finance Officer on the amount of each semester’s maintenance budget before the House passes the budget.
 +  - **e.** Encourage house members to do minor preventative maintenance, which the building and appliances need regularly.
 +  - **f.** 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. Inform the membership of and post an emergency fire escape plan in a common area.
 +  - **g.** Keep a log of the House furniture and its condition. This will be updated each time someone checks out. Major damage to a piece of Phoenix furniture shall be charged to the member’s account.
 +
 +  - **Repair Officer Shall:**
 +  - **a.** Determine the need for all maintenance supplies. The Facilities officer shall be authorized to spend House maintenance funds with prior consent given by the Finance Officer and house approval of any purchases over $30, taking care not to deplete the term’s budget.
 +  - **b.** Keep track of all House work and repairs and record these in the House maintenance log and report any irregularities to the SHC Vice- President of Facilities or SHC Facilities Coordinator.
 +  - **c.** Notify, as a primary responsibility, the SHC office of any maintenance problems, the house is unable to solve within its own budget and labor pool.
 +  - **d.** Inspect rooms each time someone moves out and keep a record of their condition.
 +  - **e.** Monitor and control house temperature levels.
 +  - **f.** Keep the house keys in an organized manner, with extra keys for each room.
 +
 +  - **Both**
 +  - **a.** Be responsible for the oversight of maintenance and upkeep of the physical House.
 +  - **b.** Ensure that all House duties that involve maintenance are done in a proper fashion. The Facilities Coordinator will be notified of any negligence and they may issue a warning. *Further negligence will result in a fine.
 +  - **c.** 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.
 +  - **d.** Educate the house on the use of the house facilities, and how to repair them.
  
   - **Section 4.8** The Finance Officer shall:   - **Section 4.8** The Finance Officer shall:
-    - **a.** Formulate the term budget immediately after the first House meeting of each term, using input from the Steward and Maintenance Officer and the SHC Corporate Treasurer. This formal budget will be posted for approval by a membership referendum. The Budget will pass by referendum if 2/3 of the current House membership signs in agreement. +    - **a.** Formulate the term budget immediately after the first House meeting of each term, using input from the Steward and Maintenance Officer and the SHC Corporate Treasurer. This formal budget will be posted for approval by a membership referendum. The Budget will pass by referendum if 2/3 of the current House membership signs in agreement.
     - **b.** Pay all House bills by the due date.     - **b.** Pay all House bills by the due date.
     - **c.** Keep a check register and update the expense tracking sheets after each check is written or receipt is received.      - **c.** Keep a check register and update the expense tracking sheets after each check is written or receipt is received. 
Line 131: Line 175:
     - **e.** Make the House records available to any member who wishes to see them. This includes posting a copy of the term budget on the bulletin board. The Finance Officer must also make the records available to the SHC bookkeeper and Treasurer.      - **e.** Make the House records available to any member who wishes to see them. This includes posting a copy of the term budget on the bulletin board. The Finance Officer must also make the records available to the SHC bookkeeper and Treasurer. 
     - **f.** Serve as financial spokesperson for the House when dealing with banks, utility companies, suppliers, or the SHC office.      - **f.** Serve as financial spokesperson for the House when dealing with banks, utility companies, suppliers, or the SHC office. 
-    - **g.** Serve on the SHC Finance Committee and attend each meeting or send a substitute. 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. The Finance Officer shall be responsible for any fines imposed upon the House due to negligence in attending committee meetings.  +    - **g.** Serve on the SHC Finance Committee and attend each meeting or send a substitute. 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. The Finance Officer shall be responsible for any fines imposed upon the House due to negligence in attending committee meetings. 
-    - **h.** Post member balances twice monthly, to ensure peer pressure on past due accounts and to demonstrate that charges is being collected and accounted.+ 
 +    -** Section 4.9 ** The Steward shall: 
 +    -**a.** Be responsible for the cleanliness and smooth operation of the kitchen. This involves making sure that shoppers, dishwashers, and kitchen workers understand their jobs and do them punctually and thoroughly. 
 +     -**b.** Assist Haus cooks with providing a well-balanced meal plan and announcing meal times including delays. 
 +     -**c.** Propose an amount for a total food allocation to be voted on as part of the term budget. Further, the steward’s primary concern should be keeping within the House food budget. 
 +    -**d.** Work with the Jobs Officer on tracking dish day completion 
 +    -**e.** Put new members’ names on the appropriate fridge and cabinet slot. 
 +    -**f.** Complete dish dashes with assistance from the jobs officer when requested 
 +    -**g.** Track clipped and Haus meal dishes age alongside announcing when they are available for steals.  
 +    -**h.** Supervise the purchase of non-food kitchen supplies and other non-food consumable goods (dish-towels, toilet paper, lights, etc.) and will assist the purchaser in putting them away. 
 +    -**i.** Determine the need for all kitchen supplies. The Steward shall be authorized to spend House maintenance funds with prior consent given by the Finance Officer and house approval of any purchases over $30, taking care not to deplete the month’s budget. 
 +    -**j.** Determine the need for all kitchen supplies. The Steward shall be authorized to spend House maintenance funds with prior consent given by the Finance Officer and house approval of any purchases over $30, taking care not to deplete the month’s budget. The steward shall conduct a dish dash at the last meeting of the term. 
 +    -**k.** The Steward is empowered to call for a Fridge Audit with at least 24 hours’ notice. The steward shall conduct a fridge audit at the last meeting of the term.
  
-  - **Section 4.9** The Steward shall: 
-    - **a.** Be responsible for the cleanliness and smooth operation of the kitchen and providing a well-balanced meal plan. This involves making sure that cooks, purchasers, dishwashers, and kitchen general improvement that all kitchen workers understand their jobs and do them punctually and thoroughly. 
-    - **b.** Notify the House of any warnings and fines administered. 
-    - **c.** Propose an amount for a total food allocation to be voted on as part of the term budget. Further, the steward’s primary concern should be keeping within the House food budget. 
-    - **d.** Contact the other House stewards to coordinate any money-saving, joint bulk purchases. e. Supervise the purchase of non-food kitchen supplies and other non-food consumable goods (dish-towels, toilet paper, lights, etc.) and will assist the purchaser in putting them away. 
  
   - **Section 4.10** The Membership Officer shall:   - **Section 4.10** The Membership Officer shall:
     - **a.** As a primary responsibility, support the on-going effort of keeping the House full to capacity. The importance of this task cannot be overemphasized. The entire year is a critical time for membership.      - **a.** As a primary responsibility, support the on-going effort of keeping the House full to capacity. The importance of this task cannot be overemphasized. The entire year is a critical time for membership. 
     - **b.** See that prospective members meet the qualifications for open membership and understand costs and responsibilities. They should also schedule and conduct tours for prospective members whenever possible (however, any member can give a tour to a prospective member).      - **b.** See that prospective members meet the qualifications for open membership and understand costs and responsibilities. They should also schedule and conduct tours for prospective members whenever possible (however, any member can give a tour to a prospective member). 
-    - **c.** Attend all SHC Membership Committee meetings to learn and share knowledge of how to find new members. They may send a substitute to the meetings, but will be charged for any fines resulting form non-attendance. +    - **c.** Attend all SHC Membership Committee meetings to learn and share knowledge of how to find new members. They may send a substitute to the meetings, but will be charged for any fines resulting from non-attendance. 
     - **d.** Put new members’ names on the appropriate mail slot.     - **d.** Put new members’ names on the appropriate mail slot.
 +             - **1.** Forward mail of previous members forwarding address or mark return to sender
     - **e.** The Membership Officer is responsible for ensuring each touree has a copy of the House Constitution and any other documents that may be useful in orienting a new member.      - **e.** The Membership Officer is responsible for ensuring each touree has a copy of the House Constitution and any other documents that may be useful in orienting a new member. 
     - **f.** Make certain all members have room and House keys. Along with holding duplicate keys.     - **f.** Make certain all members have room and House keys. Along with holding duplicate keys.
Line 156: Line 208:
     - **c.** Sit on one of the SHC standing committees and pay any fines assessed to the House for non-attendance of any SHC meetings.      - **c.** Sit on one of the SHC standing committees and pay any fines assessed to the House for non-attendance of any SHC meetings. 
     - **d.** Be considered a Director of SHC and is charged to act in the best interests of the House and SHC.     - **d.** Be considered a Director of SHC and is charged to act in the best interests of the House and SHC.
-    - **e.** Put every effort into getting the memberships input on all SHC issues. +    - **e.** Put every effort into getting the memberships input on all SHC issues.
     - **f.** Sign any corporate documents.     - **f.** Sign any corporate documents.
     - **g.** Be familiar with the SHC Code of Operations and By-Laws. They will be a reference for issues members have with SHC and their policy and practices.      - **g.** Be familiar with the SHC Code of Operations and By-Laws. They will be a reference for issues members have with SHC and their policy and practices. 
 +    - **h.** The board shall post the meeting agenda prior to the meeting 
 +    - **i.** Aid other house officers in the fulfillment of their roles
 +    - **j.** Sit on any committees or act as representative of the haus to any outside entities deemed necessary by the house.
 +    - **k.** Sit on any committees or act as representative of the house to any outside entities deemed necessary by the house.
 +    - **l.** Sit on the conflict resolution team
 +
 + **Section 4.12** The Events Coordinator shall: 
 +  - **a.** Coordinate parties and intimacy parties for the house 
 +               - **1.** At least two party per term
 +               - **2.** At least two intimacy event per term
 +  - **b.** Make a guest list for parties
 +  - **c.** Properly assign and allocate any relevant party chores and fines
 +  - **d.** Buying necessary items for parties that are approved by house
 +  - **e.** Make calendar of SHC events
 +
 +  - **Section 4.13 Officer limitations**
 +    - **a.**  Officers may not hold more than one officer position
 +             - **1.** Even when the house isn’t full officers may not hold one than more officer position (officer position may be empty in the event no one wants to run and house is low on members, expect when super succeeded by SHC constitution)
  
 ====ARTICLE V: FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS==== ====ARTICLE V: FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS====
Line 167: Line 237:
   - **Section 5.3** All house reserves (shares) are not subject to member refund. Reserves can only be spent on house improvements approved by 2/3 current members. Any improvement must include three written estimates to be presented at the House meeting. Any member may present a proposal to the House for reserve spending. (aka savings account) (members cant draw from the savings account)    - **Section 5.3** All house reserves (shares) are not subject to member refund. Reserves can only be spent on house improvements approved by 2/3 current members. Any improvement must include three written estimates to be presented at the House meeting. Any member may present a proposal to the House for reserve spending. (aka savings account) (members cant draw from the savings account) 
  
-  - **Section 5.4** Any member maintaining a $50 or more balance will be placed on the House Meeting Agenda for a “Charge Inquiry”. The member will explain their situation and negotiate a payment agreement before the meeting is adjourned. (Payment agreement must be approved by a simple majority)+  - **Section 5.4** Any failure to meet the terms of the payment agreement will be grounds for expulsion. The Finance Coordinator will call a special House meeting to discuss the member’s failure to meet the terms of the payment agreement. This meeting will count as a Charge Inquiry. A 2/3 vote is necessary to expulse in such a case. 
  
-  - **Section 5.5** Any failure to meet the terms of the payment agreement will be grounds for expulsion. The Finance Coordinator will call a special House meeting to discuss the member’s failure to meet the terms of the payment agreement. This meeting will count as a Charge Inquiry. A 2/3 vote is necessary to expuls in such a case. +  - **Section 5.5** If a member comes up for “Charge Inquiry” TWO times during a contract period they will be notified that they will be evicted the THIRD time they come up for “Charge Inquiry.” On this third Charge Inquiry, a 100% vote of current membership is the only safety net for this member to continue living at Phoenix House. 
  
-  - **Section 5.6** If a member comes up for “Charge Inquiry” TWO times during a contract period they will be notified that they will be evicted the THIRD time they come up for “Charge Inquiry.” On this third Charge Inquiry, a 100% vote of current membership is the only safety net for this member to continue living at Phoenix House. +  - **Section 5.6** If any member fails to meet the terms of the payment plan and had signed a contract for an additional period, it will automatically become null and void. A house vote will not be required. 
  
-  - **Section 5.7** If any member fails to meet the terms of the payment plan and had signed a contract for an additional period, it will automatically become null and void. A house vote will not be required.  +  - **Section 5.7** The House must be fully reimbursed for any damage resulting from the conduct of any member, or member’s guest. The responsible member/host will be fined, if necessary, to cover the cost of the damage. The amount will be set at a regular House meeting and added to the account of the responsible party. 
- +
-  - **Section 5.8** The House must be fully reimbursed for any damage resulting from the conduct of any member, or member’s guest. The responsible member/host will be fined, if necessary, to cover the cost of the damage. The amount will be set at a regular House meeting and added to the account of the responsible party. +
  
 ====ARTICLE VI: ROOM ASSIGNMENTS==== ====ARTICLE VI: ROOM ASSIGNMENTS====
Line 189: Line 257:
       - **b.** Accumulated terms at Phoenix (paying charges while not in the house counts as a full term, getting a replacement to take your contract means you miss out on the semester’s seniority points)        - **b.** Accumulated terms at Phoenix (paying charges while not in the house counts as a full term, getting a replacement to take your contract means you miss out on the semester’s seniority points) 
       - **c.** Date and time of FIRST contract to Phoenix        - **c.** Date and time of FIRST contract to Phoenix 
 +      - **d.** Date and time of resigning current contract to Phoenix
       - NOTE: If a member has not resided in Phoenix for more than one semester consecutively then the member’s seniority will be determined by accumulated semester points and the signing date and time of the contract in question-NOT just the first contract.       - NOTE: If a member has not resided in Phoenix for more than one semester consecutively then the member’s seniority will be determined by accumulated semester points and the signing date and time of the contract in question-NOT just the first contract.
  
Line 194: Line 263:
  
   - **Section 6.3** If a current member does not sign their contract by the Phoenix deadline, the member will be “bumped” behind those current members that do sign by the deadline, regardless of accumulated points. A member that misses a deadline will be at the bottom of the seniority list for that particular contract period only. Seniority will be re-tabulated at the next contract and members will be readjusted.   - **Section 6.3** If a current member does not sign their contract by the Phoenix deadline, the member will be “bumped” behind those current members that do sign by the deadline, regardless of accumulated points. A member that misses a deadline will be at the bottom of the seniority list for that particular contract period only. Seniority will be re-tabulated at the next contract and members will be readjusted.
-  - If a member misses the signing deadline, they will keep their seniority points and re-enter seniority list with their accumulated points when they re-sign. However, rooms cannot be reassigned after the room-pick party. A member cannot pick a room without having already signed a Phoenix contract for the upcoming contract period.  Seniority points should be re-tabulated after each section of the Phoenix calendar year+  - If a member misses the signing deadline, they will keep their seniority points and re-enter seniority list with their accumulated points when they re-sign. However, rooms cannot be reassigned after the room-pick party. A member cannot pick a room without having already signed a Phoenix contract for the upcoming contract period. Seniority points should be re-tabulated after each section of the Phoenix calendar year
  
   - **Section 6.4** Fall seniority will be tabulated by April 1st. After this day, the ORDER of the seniority list for Fall may not change. The list may only change in number due to members releasing from contract. Remaining members will then be bumped ahead accordingly. Not even a past member with accumulated points may disrupt this order after April 1st.    - **Section 6.4** Fall seniority will be tabulated by April 1st. After this day, the ORDER of the seniority list for Fall may not change. The list may only change in number due to members releasing from contract. Remaining members will then be bumped ahead accordingly. Not even a past member with accumulated points may disrupt this order after April 1st. 
Line 224: Line 293:
   - **Section 7.4** In the case that a house member moves into a new room and finds a mural/ painting that was left by a previous occupant displeasing or offensive, money will be allotted in the house budget for painting supplies.    - **Section 7.4** In the case that a house member moves into a new room and finds a mural/ painting that was left by a previous occupant displeasing or offensive, money will be allotted in the house budget for painting supplies. 
  
-====ARTICLE VIII: HARASSMENT POLICY====+====ARTICLE VIII: SAFER SPACE AND HARASSMENT POLICY====
   - ALL HOUSE MEMBERS WILL ABIDE BY THE SHC CODE OF OPERATIONS HARASSMENT POLICY. ANY FORM OF HARASSMENT TOWARD ANY OTHER MEMBER, OR GUEST, IS GROUNDS FOR IMMEDIATE EXPULSION.   - ALL HOUSE MEMBERS WILL ABIDE BY THE SHC CODE OF OPERATIONS HARASSMENT POLICY. ANY FORM OF HARASSMENT TOWARD ANY OTHER MEMBER, OR GUEST, IS GROUNDS FOR IMMEDIATE EXPULSION.
 +  - Phoenix Cooperative Haus is a place of living and learning  meant to provide its members with the tools and experiences to grow into the best version of themselves. That includes the space to make mistakes, change, and be able to gain healthy relations to conflict and handle it productively in a secure and safe environment. This safe and safe environment includes a process and safety measure for handling conflict based in a transformative justice framework and supported by the resources of the SHC.
  
 ====ARTICLE IX: GUEST/PARTY POLICY==== ====ARTICLE IX: GUEST/PARTY POLICY====
Line 232: Line 302:
     - **Group:** A gathering of people in a member’s room that are remaining quiet and not disturbing other members.     - **Group:** A gathering of people in a member’s room that are remaining quiet and not disturbing other members.
     - **Party:** A gathering of people initiated by a member in a common area where drinking, music, dancing, or loud noises may occur.      - **Party:** A gathering of people initiated by a member in a common area where drinking, music, dancing, or loud noises may occur. 
-    - **House Party:** A gathering involving several members of the House and a large number of people. +    - **House Party:** A gathering involving several members of the House and a large number of people with live music, party chores, etc.
  
   - **Section 9.2** Members must notify all other members of Phoenix that they will have a guest using the facilities and/or hanging out in the common areas when the member is not present. Notifications may be verbal or communicated digitally.    - **Section 9.2** Members must notify all other members of Phoenix that they will have a guest using the facilities and/or hanging out in the common areas when the member is not present. Notifications may be verbal or communicated digitally. 
Line 254: Line 324:
   - **Section 9.11** Fines for not following the guest and party policy may be left by a vote at a House Meeting. Any member may initiate the call for fines. If they wish to do it anonymously, they can ask the Board Representative to add it to the agenda.   - **Section 9.11** Fines for not following the guest and party policy may be left by a vote at a House Meeting. Any member may initiate the call for fines. If they wish to do it anonymously, they can ask the Board Representative to add it to the agenda.
  
 + 
 ====ARTICLE X: FINES AND PENALTIES==== ====ARTICLE X: FINES AND PENALTIES====
 +
 +  -**Section 10.1** Any member may initiate the fines procedure. These positions will administer fines in Phoenix House: Jobs Officer, Maintenance Officer, Steward, Events Officer, Education Officer and Finance Officer.
 +  -**Section 10.2** All house officers will be responsible for monitoring each other with the use of officer meetings and meeting reports at regular house meetings. If a House Officer is not completing their job, they will be fined. A second offense will result in the creation of an accountability/improvement plan. A third offense will call for a vote by the House to recall the Officer.
 +  -**Section 10.3** Fines are allocated to those members who are “without a doubt” guilty of neglecting their House jobs or not attending House Meetings.
 +  -**Section 10.4** Each point of a job is worth $10 (that is, a 2 point job is worth $20 etc.) Fines for failure to complete jobs once follow this rule. Members will be fined for failure to complete a required job. (For example: a house member that is not contributing to the 4 point system is eligible to be charged $40 per week which is $10 per required point.)
 +  -**Section 10.5** House members can receive credit for picking up another member’s job at any time equal to their fine. (Steals)
 +  -**Section 10.6** All members have the right to explain their circumstances at a House Meeting if they feel they are innocent. The majority vote is needed to repeal a fine.
 +  -**Section 10.7** Members that miss a work holiday will be fined $25 per chore. The Jobs Coordinator may allow them to make up the time, in lieu of a fine, if they have an acceptable reason for missing the Holiday.
 +  -**Section 10.8** Dish Dash: With prior notice entrance into the personal rooms to look for house dishes by the House Steward is allowed. The housemate with the most dishes reported in their room is responsible for washing all of the dishes collected. If the member does not wash the dishes they will be fined $2 per dish. This bounty is up for steals.
 +    - **10.8.a** Dish totals, responsibility for cleaning, and any incurred fines will be split among roommates.
 +  - **Section 10.9** Fridge Audit: With prior notice, all housemates will be expected to go audit their fridge spot; cleaning it and throwing out any items that have “gone bad”. Any members not in attendance of the fridge audit or who did not clean out their fridge spot and report so to the House Steward will receive a fine equal to one chore point.
 +  - **Section 10.10** Meeting fines are as follows:
 +    - **a.** First missed meeting = “freebie”
 +    - **b.** Second missed meeting = $10 fine
 +    - **c.** Third missed meeting = $15 fine
 +    - **d.** All following missed meetings will bring fines increasing by $5 each miss (i.e. $15, $20, $25…)
 +    - Valid reasons for missing a meeting include: death, family activities, medical emergency, jury duty, and work, etc.
 +    - Meeting fines shall be re-set at the beginning of a new semester.
 +
  
 ====ARTICLE XI: JOBS POLICY==== ====ARTICLE XI: JOBS POLICY====
 +  -In the case of changing the job system will be voted on by the house at the beginning of the term. Once established, a weekly or monthly trial run may occur before the system is permanently implemented through quorum vote. After this vote passes, this is the permanent system in place until the new term, where the system may be revoted on. Points are assigned to specific tasks determined by the difficulty/time demanded of the task. Each unfinished point is a $10 fine. For example, if a member only does 1/3 points one week, they will be charged $20. Fines accumulate throughout each month, and are charged as an additional sum along with your charges.
 +
 +  -**Section 11.1** Any fine will count as a “foul”. A member may only get one weekly fine per job.
 +  -**Section 11.2** If a member accumulates TWO fouls, there would start a house conflict resolution process with the Jobs Officer acting on behalf of the house. Should a third or more foul occur an official grievance with the SHC will be filed by the Jobs Officer on behalf of the house and may result in expulsion of the member.
 +  -**Section 11.3** Fouls can only accumulate per term (i.e. a person can have 5 fouls and not come up for grievance because that member has not reached three fouls in any specific term. Two in the first Fall term, One in the Spring term, Two in the Summer term).
 +  -**Section 11.4** If a member does not do any weekly cleaning jobs (i.e. bathrooms, living room, hallways, and recycling), the member will be fined accordingly and given 24 hours to finish the job. If still not complete, the member will be fined at the end of the week.
 +  -**Section 11.5** If a member does not do a dish shift then the member will be fined. The next dish doer may receive the fine from the previous member on completion of all dishes.
 +  -**Section 11.6** Special Arrangements may be set up in advance with the Job Coordinator if a member is to be away for an extended period of time. 
 +    - **11.6.a** Extensions for chore deadlines may be requested and may be given by the Jobs Officer within reason.
 +
 +====ARTICLE XIII: DRUG POLICY====
 +  - **NO USE OF ILLEGAL DRUGS ON PHOENIX HOUSE PROPERTY. NO ILLEGAL DRUG TRAFFICKING ON PHOENIX HOUSE PROPERTY.**
 +
 +
 +====ARTICLE XIV: AMENDMENTS====
 +
 +    -**Section 13.1** This constitution may be amended by a two-thirds vote during a House Meeting which has quorum present
 +    -**Section 13.2** Any amendments which pass shall be posted immediately and updated within SHC storage along with notifying the Vice President of Education.
 +
 +
 +====ARTICLE XV: PET POLICY====
 +
 +**Phoenix is a pet friendly house. Pets are defined as any animals brought into the house by an individual meant to stay on the property longer than a day. Uncaged pets are defined as cats, or any other animal that would spend the majority of its time outside of a cage. Free-roaming pets are any pets allowed to regularly spend time outside of their owner’s room. By choosing to live in this house, you are agreeing to possibly live with any approved animals.**
 +
 +    -**Section 14.1** Each individual pet must be voted on by the house members in order to live in the house. In the case of doubles, both roommates must agree to house a pet in their room.
 +    -**Section 14.2** After a pet has been approved by the house members, pet owners must submit a Pet Agreement to the SHC. They must also comply with House enforced pet agreements (i.e. The Cat Contract).
 +    -**Section 14.3** The pet must be voted on before the pet’s arrival. One uncaged animal per person, one cage of animals per person, the maximum amount of uncaged animals is 4. Each pet is subject to re-approval at the first house meeting of each term. If the house does not vote on the animal, the pet is considered re-approved.
 +    -**Section 14.4** Animals can always be re-voted on, given any housemate has a valid grievance or concern with the pet continuing to live in the house. This vote should be held as a blind vote. If a pet is voted out, the pet owner has one week to remove the pet Section Any costs from damages attributed to a 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.
 +    -**Section 14.5** For animals to become free-roaming you have to gain a separate approval vote.
 +    -**Section 14.6** Members are held responsible for their pets and any destruction they cause and will be fined accordingly.
 +    -**Section 14.7** Pet owners must submit any necessary documentation or be subject to potential fines and a pet re-vote. (i.e. Pet Agreements, Cat Contracts)
 +
 +
 +====ARTICLE XVI: SCOPE====
 +
 +**This constitution shall be subject to all laws and regulations set forth by the United States of America, the State of Michigan, and the City of East Lansing.**
 +    -**a.** This constitution shall be subject to all rules and regulations set forth by the Spartan Housing Cooperative (SHC) and all of its respective governing bodies.
 +    -**b.** This constitution shall supersede and null all previous constitutions initiated by Phoenix House Cooperative.
 +    -**c.** This constitution shall supersede any rules or regulations that were implemented under its governance.
 +    -**d.** All rules and regulations made under the governance of this constitution shall be placed in the addendum section of this constitution upon the approval of the active members during a Regular House Meeting.
  
-====ARTICLE XII: DRUG POLICY==== 
  
-====ARTICLE XIII: AMENDMENTS====+====Appendices====
  
-====ARTICLE XIV: PET POLICY====+  - **A.** Chore System 
 +      - **a.** Dish / Trash 
 +      - **b.** Bathroom 
 +      - **c.** Work Week 
 +  - **B.** Meeting Reports 
 +  - **C.** Emergency Plans 
 +      - **a.** Fire 
 +      - **b.** Flood 
 +  - **D.** Party 
 +      - **a.** Norms 
 +      - **b.** Chores 
 +  - **E.** Safety Plan 
 +      - **a.** Accountability Plans 
 +      - **b.** Contact List 
 +      - **c.** Safety Plans 
 +      - **d.** Ban List 
 +  - **F.** 
 +      - **a.** Free-Roaming/Cat Contract
  
-====ARTICLE XV: SCOPE==== 
house_documents/constitutions/phoenix.1677525364.txt.gz · Last modified: 2023/02/27 11:16 by vp_education