Empowerment Congress Central ANDC Bylaws

Bylaws Table of Contents
Article I

NAME
Name of the Neighborhood Council

The Name of this Neighborhood Council is the Empowerment Congress
Central Area Neighborhood Development Council ("ECCANDC").

Article II

PURPOSE

HISTORY
On January 23, 1992, Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas launched the "Campaign for a
New Eighth District" with the goal of increasing the quality of life for residents living in
the Eighth Council District of Los Angeles.
A key feature of the Campaign was the establishment of the Empowerment
Congress and institution of Neighborhood Development Councils (NDC), vehicles for
people who live, work, attend school I church or own property I a
business in the district to shape the policies and decisions which affect their lives.
There are five Neighborhood Development Councils, divided geographically by
census tracts: SOUTHEAST, SOUTHWEST, NORTH, WEST and CENTRAL.
Purpose and Mission
The purpose of this Council is to work with elected officials to improve the quality of life
in communities within the Neighborhood Council boundaries. The Governing Board
and stakeholders identify community concerns, and work with
City officials to identify resources to address issues and develop
solutions. The mission of the Neighborhood Council is to:
(a)

Engage residents in efforts to create safer and healthier environment,
Educated constituents to make more informed decisions regarding
the condition of their neighborhoods and,
(c)
Empower stakeholders to effect positive change in their communities.
(b)

Non-Discrimination
The ECCANDC will encourage all Community Stakeholders to participate in all
activities, and will not discriminate in any policies, recommendations or actions
against any individual or group on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, national
origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, income or
political affiliation.
Article III
BOUNDARIES
The ECCANDC has a minimum of 20,000 people. The geographic area is
defined by:
Section 1: Boundary Description
At Arlington Ave going east on the Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. to
Normandie Ave..
b) At Martin Luther King Blvd going south on Normandie Ave to 62"d St.
c) At Normandie Ave. going east on 62"d St. to Vermont Ave.
d) At 62"d St. going south on Vermont Ave to Florence Ave.
e) At Vermont Ave going west on Florence Ave to Van Ness Ave
f) At Florence Ave going north on Van Ness Ave to 54th St.,
g) At 54th St. going north on Arlington Ave to Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. h)
a)

Shared Office Space: Mark Ridley- Thomas Constituent Center 8475
South Vermont Ave., Los Angeles CA 90044

Section 2: Internal Boundaries
Not Applicable
Article IV

STAKEHOLDER
Stakeholder
Definition

ECCANDC stakeholder and meetings are open to all community stakeholders.
"Stakeholders" shall be defined as those who live, work, attend school/ church, own
a business/property, or declare a stake in the neighborhood and affirm the factual
basis for it.
The ECCANDC is comprised of stakeholders who live, work, attend school/ church,
own a business/property, or declare a stake in the neighborhood and affirm the
factual basis for it within the Neighborhood Council's boundaries.
Article V

GOVERNING BOARD

Section 1: Composition
Section 1a
Composition of the Governing Board:
The Neighborhood Development Council Governing Board will consist of:
Four Officers- Chairperson, Co- Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer
Six - Neighborhood Representatives
·
Three - Members at Large
One - 'Stakeholder Associate' Representative
One- Youth Representative
1b.

Ten Elected Positions:
•
•
•
•

Chairperson
Co-Chairperson
Secretary
Six Neighborhood Representatives (Two
representatives for each of the 3 specific geographic
area within the neighborhood Council)
***Area 1 Boundaries are Martin Luther King Blvd
going South to 48th St. between Arlington Ave and
Normandie Ave.
***Area 2 boundaries are 48th St. going south to
Slauson Ave between Arlington/ Van Ness Ave and
Normandie Ave.

***Area 3 boundaries are starting at Van Ness Ave going east
on Slauson Ave to Normandie Ave; At Slauson Ave going
south on Normandie Ave to 62"d St; At Normandie Ave going
east on 62"d St to Vermont Ave; At 62"d St going south on
Vermont Ave
to Florence Ave; At Vermont Ave going west on Florence
Ave to Van Ness Ave; At Florence Ave going north on Van
Ness Ave to Martin Luther King Blvd.
• One "Stakeholder Associate" Representative
1c. Five Appointed Positions:
• 3 At-Large Representatives plus;
• One Youth Representative must be 16 years old. (If
less than 18 yrs. of age, the person is excluded from
voting on legally binding contracts and agreements.)
• Treasurer
Other Definition:
1. (A Stakeholder Associate is defined as anyone who declares a stake in
the neighborhood and affirms the factual basis for it. Only those
stakeholders who falls under this category can vote and run for this
position)
The Governing Board rnust, to the extent possible, reflect the diversity of the
Neighborhood Council's stakeholders. Accordingly, no single stakeholder group shall
comprise a majority of the Neighborhood Council's Governing Board unless extenuating
circumstances are warranted and approved by DONE.
Section 2: Quorum
c.
Eight (8) members of the Governing Board constitute a quorum. A
quorum must be present in order to take action on a matter. No proxy
voting allowed.
Section 3: Official Actions - A simple majority vote by the Board members present,
[select one] □ not including abstentions OR □ including abstentions, at a meeting at which
there is a quorum shall be required to take official action, unless specified otherwise in these
Bylaws.
(d)

G)

Section 4: Terms and Term Limits
The current elected board members will remain in office until the new board
members have been elected in the City Clerk elections in 2010 and officially seat.
All subsequent elected Boards will remain in office for a two-year term.
There is no term limit as to how many times a board member may serve on a
Neighborhood Council Board.

Section 5: Duties and Powers
The Governing Board guides and coordinates the work of the Neighborhood Council.
Through organized meetings, stakeholders and community issues and needs will be

Bylaws Template 4-29-11

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identified. These concerns will be addressed with collaboration between the
Neighborhood Council and City officials and/or their staff as they work to identify
available resources and lor solutions.
The work of the Governing Board includes:
• establish policies & procedures
• host monthly planning meetings
• identifying issues and coordinate projects to address issues
• form Ad Hoc Committees as needs arises.
• support the work and activities of the Standing Committees.
• monitors City Governance on proposed legislation that may
affect the quality of life of the neighborhood council
community.
• Serve as liaison between our stakeholders and other
organizations and agencies/ entities within the City of Los
Angeles.
Section 2.

Duties and Responsibilities

THE GOVERNING BOARD SHALL:
(a)
provide leadership on the Neighborhood Development Council
(b)
plan community meetings, events and activities
(c)
monitor issues within the Neighborhood Council boundaries
(d)
participate in ongoing projects, NC sponsored events and activities
(e)
attend scheduled community and planning meetings
(f)
be familiar with City, County and private resources available to the
community.
(g)
provide comments and feedback to the city governance on the needs of
the community.
1. Chair: Shall preside over all regular meetings of the Neighborhood Council
and the Governing Board. Represent the Council before other agencies and
organizations as directed by a majority vote of the Governing Board.
2. Co-Chair: To perform the duties of the Chair in his/her absence ; when acting
shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions on the
Chairperson; serve as an ex-officio member of committees and any
other duties that may be directed by the Governing Board/ these bylaws and/or
the standing rules.
3. Secretary: To carry out the official correspondence of the Council. Keep
minutes of meetings. Prepare and distribute agenda for each meeting.
Maintaining and updating all official documents. To be responsible for: the
operation of the ECCANDC office.
4. Area Representatives: Post notices of all meetings. Serve on committees
and perform other duties as directed by the Chair. Identify and monitor issues


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within the Neighborhood Development Council boundaries.
5. At-Large Members: Shall assist the neighborhood
representatives with their duties and responsibilities.
6. Treasurer: The Treasurer shall be responsible for and maintaining the
Neighborhood Council funds and financial records under the guidelines of "Article
VIII" of the ECCANDC Bylaws and as directed by DONE's accounting procedures
and the ECCANDC Governing Board.
7. Youth Representative: Shall help to identify and present the concerns and
issues of the youths in the NC to the governing Board.
8. Stakeholder Associate Representative: Shall assist the Neighborhood
Representatives.
Section 6: Vacancies
Section 3. A Governing Board Vacant Positions
a. Position not filled by election and/or appointment
b. Position vacant due to resignation of board member.
c. Position vacant by the Governing Board's removal of a board
member.
B. Filling Board Vacancy -Any vacancy may be filled with recommendation from
the Governing Board, Neighborhood Council Member or the City Council Member
and approved by majority vote of the Governing Board.
Section 7: Absences
a. Absences. A Board Member shall be permitted a maximum number of four
absences at general meetings per "Council Year" (for purposes of this provision a
"Council Year" begins with the first scheduled Council meeting following the
Board Member's election or appointment and continuing for the next eleven
months thereafter). Upon occurrence of the fifth absence, the Board Member
shall be removed from the Council. An absence is valid regardless of the reason
for the absence and even if a meeting is not held because there was no quorum.
Section 6
Leave of Absence

A. The board member must submit a letter for a leave of absence. B.
Leave of absence shall not exceed four months.
C. Board members on "leave of absence" privileges and responsibilities are
suspended until he/she is reinstated as an active Board member.
Section 8: Censure
Intentionally Left Blank
Section 9: Removal


3

A. Reasons for Removal - Board Members may be removed or replaced for the
following reasons:
b. Change or Loss of Stakeholder Status. A Board Member who is no longer a
Stakeholder in the capacity for which they were elected or appointed, as defined in
Articles I through Ill, shall be automatically removed from the Board. It is the
responsibility of each Board Member to notify the President of any change of
stakeholder status within 30 days of such change.
c. Unlawful behavior. A Board Member may be removed for any and all
behavior in violation of federal, state, or local laws, including, but not limited to:
1. Embezzlement of NC funds.
2. Misappropriation of NC funds.
3. Buying or selling votes in Board Member elections.
4. Making or soliciting bribes for votes on particular issues.
5. Violation of bylaws and/or standing rules.
d. Removal by NC Action. A Board Member may be removed by the submission of a
written petition which 1) identifies the Board Member to be removed, 2) describes in
detail the reason for removal.
B. Removal Procedures. Once a reason for removal of a Board Member has
been determined, the NC shall satisfy the following removal procedures:
a. Meeting. Removal of a Board Member shall be heard at a regular or special
meeting. The proposed removal will be placed on the agenda for a hearing by
the Board at the earliest regular NC meeting. If the next regular NC meeting is
more than thirty days away, then a special meeting may be called no sooner than
fifteen days in order to give notice to the Board Member. The proposed removal
will be placed on the agenda for a hearing by the NC at the special meeting.
b. Notice. The Board Member shall be given written notice of the proposed
removal and the reasons for the proposed removal. Notice shall be sent by email
and by first class registered mail to the Board Member's last known address a
minimum of fourteen days prior the NC meeting hearing the proposed removal.
c. Opportunity to be Heard. The Board Member shall be given an opportunity to
be heard, either orally or in writing. The hearing shall be held, or the written
statement considered, at the NC meeting hearing the proposed removal.
d. Decision. The Board shall decide whether or not the Board Member should be
removed. Any removal of a Board Member pursuant to this subsection shall require
an affirmative vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Board Members present and voting.
The Board Member being considered for removal shall not take part in the removal
vote. If the vote for removal is affirmative, then the position shall be determined
vacant.
C. Reinstatement. The Board Member may seek reinstatement through the
grievance procedure.


4

D. Counsel. The NC may consult with its legal counsel, the Offices of the City
Attorney, throughout this removal process.
Section 10: Resignation
Section 4 Member Resignation
A. The board member must submit a letter of resignation to the
Governing Board.
Section 11: Community Outreach
The Council shall direct that a system of outreach be instituted to inform Stakeholders as to
the existence and activities of the Council, including its Board elections, to find future leaders
of the Council, and to encourage all Stakeholders to seek leadership positions within the
Council.
[Additional Outreach Options]
□ The Council shall have a standing Outreach Committee, which will report its activities and
recommendations to the Board monthly at the regular Council meeting.
□ The Council shall maintain a web site presence to disseminate information to Council
Stakeholders and others interested in the Council.
□ In addition, the Board shall create, or shall cause to be created, a marketing plan to solicit
participation from Stakeholders. The plan may include, for example, the creation of flyers,
postcards, pamphlets and other related materials. It may also include e-mail blasts to various
organizations including a regularly scheduled e-blast to local government officials and to the
Chamber of Commerce, Neighborhood Watch, Home Owners’ Association and other local
organizations as determined by the Board.
□ Outreach also should be undertaken at public events and shall be coordinated with other
Neighborhood Councils when appropriate.

Article VI

OFFICERS

Section 1: Officers of the Board
The Neighborhood Development Council Governing Board will consist of: Four OfficersChairperson, Co- Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer

Section 2: Duties and Powers
The duties of the Officers are as follows and also include such additional duties as may be
adopted by official action of the Board:
1. Chair: Shall preside over all regular meetings of the Neighborhood Council
and the Governing Board. Represent the Council before other agencies and
organizations as directed by a majority vote of the Governing Board.


5

2. Co-Chair: To perform the duties of the Chair in his/her absence ; when acting
shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions on the
Chairperson; serve as an ex-officio member of committees and any
other duties that may be directed by the Governing Board/ these bylaws and/or
the standing rules.
3. Secretary: To carry out the official correspondence of the Council. Keep
minutes of meetings. Prepare and distribute agenda for each meeting.
Maintaining and updating all official documents. To be responsible for: the
operation of the ECCANDC office.
6. Treasurer: The Treasurer shall be responsible for and maintaining the
Neighborhood Council funds and financial records under the guidelines of "Article
VIII" of the ECCANDC Bylaws and as directed by DONE's accounting procedures
and the ECCANDC Governing Board.
Section 3: Selection of Officers
[select one]
□ Officer positions shall be filled □ annually OR □ every [ number] years at the first official
Board meeting following their election or selection in Board election years, and at the
subsequent [insert number] year anniversary mark of the Officers’ election in Board nonelection years.
OR
□ Officer positions are elected during the elections of the Council.

Section 4: Officer Terms
The Officers shall serve [insert number] year terms and serve at the pleasure of the Board.
They may stand for reelection □ annually OR □ every [insert number] years.
Article VII
COMMITTEES AND THEIR DUTIES
All Standing and Ad Hoc Committees shall be established by the Board. Suggestions for
committees may come from Stakeholders or from members of the Board, and all such
suggestions shall be voted upon by the Board.
Section 1: Standing
Standing Committees
Section 1
The Governing Board shall establish Standing Committees by a majority of the board
vote to focus on specific issues on an ongoing basis. The committees may be
comprised of board members and stakeholders. All committee positions will be
filled on a voluntary basis. The committee shall be the "Point of Contact" for all
related issues identified before the board. Any new standing committee can be
formed with a majority of the board vote and amendment to the bylaws.


6

The Issued-Focused Standing Committees are:
OUTREACH Committee
The Outreach Committee will continuously to develop ideals and strategies to
outreach to all stakeholders in the community. All content of outreach materials
and forms of media used must have board approval. The committee will be
responsible for all the Neighborhood Council meetings.
YOUTH ADVOCACY Committee
The Youth Advocacy Committee gives young people a safe and supportive
environment in which they can voice their concerns and begin to address issues
that affect their lives.
COMMUNITY STANDARDS Committee
Ensuring the health, welfare and safety of the community is the mission of the
Community Standards Committee. By maximizing all available resources, this council
seeks to enhance the quality of life of the community and eliminate activities that
infringe upon the rights of other.
SENIOR ADVOCACY Committee
Identifying, monitoring and addressing issues that impact seniors' quality of life is the mission
of the Senior Advocacy Committee. The council is concerned with insuring that seniors have
access to resources and services.
Section 2: Ad Hoc
Section 2
Adhoc Committees
Adhoc committees will be formed on an as needed basis by a majority vote of the board. The
Adhoc committee will be formed on subject matter that is not addressed by one of the Standing
Committees. The committee will meet until concerns has been resolved and/or no longer
needed. The committee positions will be filled on a voluntary basis.
(g)·

An outreach Ad Hoc committee will be established for the purpose of notifying
and identifying perspective candidates of upcoming election.

Section 3: Committee Creation and Authorization
[can be in standing rules instead of bylaws]
a. Committee Authority - All committee recommendations shall be brought back to
the full Board for discussion and action.
b. Committee Structure – With the exception of the Executive Committee, Committee
members shall be appointed by the President and ratified by the Board. Standing
Committees shall be comprised of at least two (2) Board members and may include any
interested Stakeholders. Ad Hoc Committees shall be comprised of [insert number that
is less than a majority of quorum] or less Board members and may include any
interested Stakeholders.
c. Committee Appointment – All Committee Chairs shall be appointed by the [select
one] □ President and confirmed by the Board OR □ by the Board. [optional language


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- Only those Committee members who are Board members are eligible to serve
as Chairman of a committee.] The Chairs shall keep a written record of Committee
meetings and shall provide regular reports on Committee matters to the Board.
d. Committee Meetings – Committee meetings are subject to and shall be conducted
in accordance with the dictates of the Brown Act. Minutes shall be taken at every
Committee meeting.
e. Changes to Committees - The Board may establish, disband or make changes as
needed to any Standing or Ad Hoc committee. Any such action by the Board shall be
noted in the Council meeting minutes.
f. Removal of Committee Members – Committee members may be removed in the
same manner in which they were appointed.

Article VIII

MEETINGS
Meetings

All meetings shall be noticed and conducted accordance with the Brown Act. Meeting
notices will be posted 72 hours prior to the meeting.

Section 1: Meeting Time and Place
a.
The Governing Board shall have a minimum of one neighborhood council
meeting per calendar quarter.
Section 2: Agenda Setting
[select one]
□ The Executive Committee shall set the agenda for each Council meeting.
OR
□ The President shall set the agenda for each Council meeting.
AND can also include a stakeholder option, such as:
Any Stakeholder may make a proposal for action by the Council by submitting a written
request to the Secretary or during the public comment period of a regular Council
meeting. The Secretary shall promptly refer the proposal to a Standing Committee or, at the
next regular Council meeting, the Board shall either consider the proposal or create an Ad Hoc
Committee to consider the proposal. The Council is required to consider the proposal at a
Committee or Board meeting, but is not required to take further action on the proposal.


8

Proposals made under the this subsection are subject to the rules regarding reconsideration
Section 3: Notifications/Postings
Notice of a regular meeting shall be a minimum of three (3) days (72 hours) in advance of the
meeting and at least one (1) day (24 hours) in advance of a special meeting. At a minimum,
notice shall be posted at the Council’s five (5) Public Notice Locations specified on the Posting
Location Form filed with the Department, on its website (if applicable) and emailed out to
Stakeholders if the Council maintains such a database. Regular and Special meeting agendas
shall also be emailed to the Department.
Section 4: Reconsideration
Section 2.
Reconsideration of a Motion
The Board may reconsider and amend its action on items listed on the agenda if that
reconsideration takes place immediately following the original action or at the next regular
meetings. The Board, on either of these two days, shall: (1) Make a Motion for
Reconsideration and, if approved, (2) hear the matter and Take an Action. If the motion to
reconsider an action is to be scheduled at the next meeting following the original action,
then two items shall be placed on the agenda for that meeting: (1) A Motion for
Reconsideration on the described matter and (2) a (Proposed) Action should the motion to
reconsider be approved. A motion for reconsideration can only be made by a Board
Member who has previously voted on the prevailing side of the original action taken. If the
motion for reconsideration is not made on the date the action was taken, then a Board
Member on the prevailing side of the action must submit a memorandum to the
Recording Secretary identifying the matter to be reconsidered and a brief description of
the reason(s) for requesting reconsideration at the next regular meeting. The
aforementioned shall be in compliance with the Brown Act.

Article IX

FINANCES
FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING PROCESS AND PROCEDURES

The ECCANDC shall follow all funding rules and regulations of the Department of
Neighborhood Empowerment and shall maintain a bank account at a federally insured
financial institution where;
1

The Treasurer of this council shall oversee and be charged with the
custody of council's funds and assets. The Treasurer will establish an
account or accounts for deposit of Neighborhood Council funds in a
federally insured (FICA) bank of financial institution in the precise name
of the Neighborhood Council, as certified by the City of Los Angeles.:

2

The Treasurer shall establish and oversee a system of bookkeeping and
accounting the Council that complies with Generally Accepted Accounting
Principles (GAAP) and conforms to all applicable Local, State, or Federal laws.
The Treasurer may request authorization from the Governing Board to retain
professional assistance in creating bookkeeping and accounting systems.

3

All money and receipts deemed for the Neighborhood Council, committees
formed under the Council and/or projects/events, etc. organized by the

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Council shall be deposited;
4

The account(s) shall be opened by the Treasurer, Chair and/or Co-Chair of
the Neighborhood Council. A separate account shall be opened and
maintained for each funding source received in accordance with Generally
Accepted Accounting Practices;

5

A separate financial statement will be prepared for each funding source in
accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP). The
financial statements will describe the use of the funds and include, the
amount appropriated, additional receipts, expenses paid and the ending
balance of the funding source.

6

All fund disbursements should be Board approved.

7

The treasurer will ensure that all of the ECCANDC bills are paid in a timely
manner.

8

All Financial records for the account shall be maintained by the Treasurer and
reviewed by the Governing Board prior to Neighborhood Council meetings;
Reports on monthly expenditures and account balances will be given at each
Neighborhood Council meeting to include a written copy to stakeholders;

9

Two authorized signatures are required for all checks and/or withdrawals from
bank account(s). The Treasurer shall sign with a countersignature by the
Chairperson or Co Chair on the bank account(s).

10

A petty cash fund shall be maintained by the Treasurer. Petty cash can be
requested by any active Neighborhood Development Council governing body
member to be used in support of Neighborhood Council activities, work,
projects, etc.;
i.

The appropriate forms must be completed and verified by the Chair
or Co-Chair for the disbursement of any funds. An original, valid
receipt or invoice must be provided with each request;

11

A copy of the all financial statements shall be submitted every quarter to the
Department of Neighborhood Empowerment.

12

All financial records will be maintained as public record and stored at the
Neighborhood Council's office;

13

Any Neighborhood Council stakeholder can review the financial records by
written request to the Neighborhood Council leadership. Once the written
request has been received by the Council, the Neighborhood Development
Council governing body must respond within 10 days advising the stakeholder
of a mutually convenient date and time to review the financial records;

14

Financial records can only be removed from the Neighborhood Council office
by the Treasurer, Chair, Co-Chair or Secretary with the knowledge/permission


10

of the Governing Board.
15

Within two (2) weeks of a Neighborhood Development Council election, all
financial records will be updated to reflect the appropriate officers in charge of
the records;

16

In the event an officer becomes inactive prior to an election, his/her name will be
removed from all accounts and authority over and access to such accounts will
be revoked.

Article X
ELECTIONS
Section 1.
Election of Neighborhood Council Governing Board
Election Process

(a)

Section 1: Administration of Election
Elections shall be held every two years in even numbered years
administered by the City Clerk starting in 2010.

(b)
(c)
(h)

Section 2: Governing Board Structure and Voting
All eligible stakeholders can vote in elections.
Individuals can nominate themselves or be nominated by another stakeholder
within the Neighborhood Development Council.
All candidates running for office must be at least 18 years of age prior to
the date of the election.

Section 2. Qualifications
1. Elected Candidates Qualifications
•
Live within the Neighborhood Council boundaries or
•
Work, attend church or school within the Neighborhood
Council boundaries or
•
Own a business or property within the Neighborhood Council
boundaries
•
The candidate must be at least 18 years of age or older.
•
For 'Stakeholder Associate Representative' position only: anyone
18 years or older who declares a stake in the neighborhood and
affirms the factual basis for it.
2. Voter Qualifications
•
Live within the Neighborhood Council boundaries or
•
•
Own a business or property in the Neighborhood Council
boundaries


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•
•

Section 3

The voter must be at least 16 years of age or older.
For 'Stakeholder Associate Representative' position only:
anyone16 years or older who declares a stake in the
neighborhood and affirms the factual basis for it.
Appointed Board Positions

The Appointment of members to the Governing Board Shall be announced and
acted upon at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the ECCANDC,
following the elections. Nominations will be accepted by the Governing Board.
Appointments to the Governing Board will be filled subject to a majority vote of
the ECCANDC Governing Board.
1. At-Large Representatives Qualifications
•
Must live within the Neighborhood Council boundaries or
•
•
•

boundaries and
The person must be at 18 years of age or older

2. Youth Representative Qualifications
•
Must live within the Neighborhood Council boundaries or
•
•
boundaries and
•
The person must be at least 16 years of age or older.( 1
designated appointed youth position)
3. Treasurer Qualifications
• Must live within the Neighborhood Council boundaries or
• Work, attend church or school within the Neighborhood
• Council boundaries or
• Own a business or property in the Neighborhood Council
boundaries and
• The person be 21 years of age or older and
• Be knowledgeable of basic accounting process and
procedures and
• The person should be bondable if ever requested to do so
bylaw.
Section 3: Minimum Voting Age
For 'Stakeholder Associate Representative' position only:
anyone16 years or older who declares a stake in the


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neighborhood and affirms the factual basis for it.
Section 4: Method of Verifying Stakeholder Status
[select one]
□ Voters will verify their Stakeholder status through written self-affirmation. Stakeholder status
may also be established by means of declaring a stake (or interest) in the neighborhood and
providing the facts to support that declaration.
OR
□ Voters will verify their Stakeholder status by providing acceptable documentation.
Stakeholder status may also be established by means of declaring a stake (or interest) in the
neighborhood and providing documentation supporting that declaration.

(e)

Section 5: Restrictions on Candidates Running for Multiple Seats
A candidate can hold only one office.

(!)

Section 6: Other Election Related Language
Election notices will be posted the designated locations.
3. Abstention Requirement for Board Members, Officers, and Committee Chairs. A member
holding a Board of Directors, Officer, or Committee Chair position in the NC shall abstain from
participation in any vote, and abstain from in any way attempting
influence the NC's
recommendation or decision, on any matter in which he or she has a "disqualifying interest."
The member with the "disqualifying interest" must provide a written declaration to the Secretary
identifying the subject of the conflict and stating that he or she will abstain from participating.

Article XI

GRIEVANCE PROCESS
Grievance
Procedures

Any grievance must be submitted to the Governing Board in writing. The
Governing Board will acknowledge the grievance within 10 working days
of receipt of the written grievance. The Governing Board will then
schedule a meeting within 45 days in an attempt to resolve the grievance.
In the event the grievance cannot be resolved by the Governing Board, a
mediator or arbitrator will be obtained for assistance. If the mediator or
arbitrator is unable to resolve the issue, the grieved may, within 10 days,
appeal to DONE who will make the final decision on the disposition of the
grievance.
The Governing Board of the NDC will abide by all applicable provisions of the
City's Governmental Ethics Ordinance, as set forth in the Los Angeles Municipal
Code Section 49.5.1., et seg. The Governing Board will also abide by all
applicable laws of the Federal, State & Local Government.


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Article XII
PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
b.
The Governing Board will use 'DONE approve' standardized
parliamentary procedures rules of conduct and decorum for conducting all
meetings as listed in the "ECCANDC Standing Rules".
Article XIII

AMENDMENTS
Amending By-Laws and Operating Guidelines

The Bylaws and Operating Guidelines shall be reviewed yearly by an AdHoc
Committee. The By-laws and Operating Guidelines shall be amended by a majority
vote of the ECCANDC Governing Board. The Governing Board must request, from
DONE, an application to change or adjust the By-laws and Operating Guideline.

Article XIV

COMPLIANCE
Code of Ethics

1. City of Los Angeles Governmental Ethics Ordinance. The NC, its representatives
and all Stakeholders will endeavor to conduct business in a professional and respectful
manner. The NC, its representatives, and all Stakeholders shall refrain from violating
the Brown Act, and these By-Laws. They shall be subject to any and all applicable
federal, state and local laws.
2. No Political Activity. Neither the NC nor any member purporting to speak for it shall
endorse any candidate for public office or any political party. Membership rosters, sign
in sheets, contact lists or email distribution lists of the NC shall not be used for political,
commercial, recruitment or any other activity not directly related to the NC.

Section 3.

Conflict of Interest

1. Applicability. This Section applies to all members of the NC Board of Directors, Officers,
and Committee Chairs and candidates for those positions with regard to their advisory and
non-advisory decision-making functions.
2. Duty to Disclose Conflicts of Interest. Any member holding a Board of Directors, Officer, or
Committee Chair position in the NC shall immediately inform the Board of Directors if a
"disqualifying interest" should arise during his or her term of office. Any Board Member may
request a ruling from the Board regarding a potential "disqualifying interest".
3. Abstention Requirement for Board Members, Officers, and Committee Chairs. A member
holding a Board of Directors, Officer, or Committee Chair position in the NC shall abstain from
participation in any vote, and abstain from in any way attempting
influence the NC's
recommendation or decision, on any matter in which he or she has a "disqualifying interest."
The member with the "disqualifying interest" must provide a written declaration to the Secretary
identifying the subject of the conflict and stating that he or she will abstain from participating.
4. Definition of a Disqualifying Interest. Any person who is a member of the Board of
Directors, Officer, or Committee Chair of the NC has a "disqualifying interest" if, he or she, or his
or her spouse or domestic partner:


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a.
is a high level official as defined in the Governmental Ethics Ordinance of the City of Los
Angeles whose official duties include making a decision on, or advising an elective City officer
who would be responsible for making a decision on a matter under consideration by the NC,
or likely to come before the NC within 12 months; or
b.

is a person, such as an employee or "independent contractor," in a decision making capacity
for a high level official as defined in the Governmental Ethics Ordinance of the City of Los
Angeles; or

c. is an owner or other person, such as an employee or "independent contractor," in a decision
making capacity, of a lobbyist registered with the City Ethics Commission of the City of Los
Angeles that has any lobbyist employer with a matter before the NC or likely to come before the
NC within 12 months; or
d.

has pending or is preparing to file with the City of Los Angeles within the next 12 months,
an application for a "project" within the NC boundaries; or

e.

is a director, owner, or other person, such as an employee or "independent contractor," in
a decision making capacity, of any for profit or nonprofit organization of any kind that has
pending or is preparing to file with the City of Los Angeles within the next 12 months, an
application for a "project" within the NC boundaries; or

f. have economic interests on which a decision on the particular matter can reasonably be
expected to have a material affect.

Other Definitions
a.

"Independent Contractor" means any individual, legal entity, or agent who
has provided goods or services to an organization within any of the last 5
years, is currently providing such goods and services, or has any reasonable
expectation to provide goods and services to the organization anytime within the
next year.

b.

"Project" means an application filed with the City of Los Angeles for any of
the following within the neighborhood boundaries of the NC: (1) for the
subdivision or aggregation of land or lots for the development of single family
homes, multi-family housing, or other real estate project within the NC
boundaries; or (2) that would change the zoning of any lot within the NC
boundaries; or (3) for a development · agreement, conditional use permit,
variance, or any other discretionary permit, or combination of such permits.

6. Disclosure Statement of Interests. During the election cycle for the NC, all Board
members and candidates for the NC Board of Directors, Officers and Committee Chairs shall
file with the Secretary a statement of interests, including all for profit or nonprofit businesses
and organizations in which he or she is a director, owner, or other person, such as an
employee or "independent contractor," in a decision making capacity. Each person under
consideration for appointment to fill a Board or Officer vacancy or to be a Committee Chair
must complete the same statement at the time of consideration. [optional language- The Rules
and Elections Committee shall prepare a disclosure statement form in accordance with this
Article. Any member has a right to pay for copies of any disclosure statement within 10


15

business days of a written request to the Secretary.)
7. Abstention Requirement for Members of Organizations with Projects. An employee or
member who has no decision making authority in any for profit or nonprofit organization that
has pending with the City of Los Angeles, an application for a project within the
boundaries of the ASNC, may participate in a decision concerning the project but must
disclose the existence of the organizational relationship to the Board Secretary.
8. Removal of Officer, Board Member or Committee Chair. Failure to disclose or to recluse
oneself in the event of a "disqualifying interest" shall be grounds for removal.

Section 1: Code of Civility
The Council, its representatives, and all Community Stakeholders shall conduct all Council
business in a civil, professional and respectful manner.
(i)

Section 2: Training
All elected and appointed candidates are required to attend DONE Board
Training. Training should be completed within three months of taking office.

Section 3: Self Assessment
Every year, the Council shall conduct a self assessment pursuant to Article VI, Section 1 of the
Plan.

For More Information contact
Empowerment Congress
Central Area Neighborhood Council
8475 S. Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90044
323-789-1449
323-789-1416 (fax)
Mail Stop #238

ATTACHMENT A – Map of Neighborhood Council
ATTACHMENT B - Governing Board Structure and Voting
Please note that the Table of Contents cannot be altered in any manner.
For sections that do not apply to the Neighborhood Council, e.g. internal boundaries,
please state, “Not Applicable.”
For sections on which the Neighborhood Council chooses to be silent, e.g. removal,
censure, please state, “Intentionally Left Blank.”
The Department of Neighborhood Empowerment highly recommends Neighborhood


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Councils address all the issues in the Bylaws Table of Contents in their bylaws with any
necessary clarifications in standing rules.
ARTICLE I NAME
The name of this Neighborhood Council shall be the [fill in name] Neighborhood Council
(“Council”).
ARTICLE II PURPOSE
Principles of Governance - The purpose of the Council is to participate as a body on issues
concerning our neighborhood and regarding the governance of the City of Los Angeles (“City”)
in a transparent, inclusive, collaborative, accountable and viable manner.
A. The MISSION of the Council is:
1. To provide an inclusive and open forum for public discussion of issues of interest to
the Council, including City governance, the needs of the Council, the delivery of City
services to the Council area, and other matters of a City wide nature;
2. To advise the City on issues of interest to the Council, including City governance,
the needs of the Council, the delivery of City services to the Council area, and other
matters of a City wide nature;
3. To initiate, execute and support projects for the physical, social and cultural
improvement of the Council area; and
4. To facilitate communication between the City and Community Stakeholders on
issues of concern to the community and/or the Stakeholders.
B. The POLICY of the Council is:
1. To respect the diversity, dignity, and expression of views of all individuals, groups,
and organizations within the community and/or involved in the Council;
2. To remain non-partisan with respect to political party affiliation and inclusive in our
operations including, but not limited to, the process of electing or selecting the
Board of Directors, Officers, and committee members, as hereinafter set forth;
3. To utilize the Early Notification System (ENS) to inform the Council and Community
Stakeholders of matters involving the City and our community in a way that is
tailored to provide opportunities for involvement in the decision-making process;
4. To encourage all Stakeholders to participate in activities of the Council;
5. To prohibit discrimination against any individual or group in our operations on the
basis of race, religion, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation,
age, disability, marital status, income, homeowner/renter status, or political
affiliation; and


17

6. To have fair, open, and transparent procedures for the conduct of all Council
business.
ARTICLE III BOUNDARIES
The Council covers a geographic area described below.
Section 1: Boundary Description - The boundaries abut the boundaries of adjacent
Neighborhood Councils and include those areas of the City within the following lines of
demarcation:
1. North – [insert description] ;
2. East – [insert description] ;
3. South – [insert description] ; and
4. West – [insert description].
The boundaries of the Council are set forth on the Map of the [fill in name]
Neighborhood Council Boundaries, attached as Addendum A.
Section 2: Internal Boundaries [insert description if applicable or if none, state “Not
applicable.”]
ARTICLE IV STAKEHOLDER
Neighborhood Council membership is open to all Stakeholders. “Stakeholders” shall be
defined as those who live, work, or own property in the neighborhood and also to those who
declare a stake in the neighborhood and affirm the factual basis for it. [this definition is from
city ordinance and cannot be changed]
ARTICLE V GOVERNING BOARD
The Board of Directors (hereinafter “the Board”) shall be the Governing Body of the Council
within the meaning of that term as set forth in the Plan.
Section 1: Composition - The Board shall consist of [insert number, e.g. fifteen (15)]
Stakeholders elected, selected or appointed by the Board and/or Community Stakeholders.
The composition of the Board shall be as follows:
[sample]
1. Homeowner Stakeholder Board Members (3) – Open to Stakeholders 18 years of
age or older who owns a residence is located within the NC boundaries.
2. Renter Stakeholder Board Members (3) – Open to Stakeholders 18 years of age
or older who rent a residence located within the NC boundaries.


18

3. Business Stakeholder Board Members (2) – Open to Stakeholders 18 years of
age or older who work or own a business or business property within the NC
boundaries.
4. Organizational Stakeholder Board Members (2) – Open to Stakeholders 18 years
of age or older who participate in a religious institution, educational institution,
community organization, non-profit organization, neighborhood association,
school/parent group, faith based group, senior group, youth group, arts association,
service organization, boys or girls club, cultural group, or environmental group within
the NC boundaries.
5. Senior Stakeholder Board Member (1) – Open to Stakeholders 65 years of age or
older.
6. Youth Board Member (1) – Open to Stakeholders between the ages of 16 and 25.
If less than eighteen (18) years of age, the Youth Board member shall be precluded
from voting on matters regarding the expenditure of funds, contracts, or
recommendations to enter into contracts.
7 At-Large Stakeholder Board Members (3) – Open to Stakeholders at least 18
years of age.
No single Stakeholder group shall hold a majority of Board seats unless extenuating
circumstances exist and are approved by the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment
(“Department”). [per the Plan]
Section 2: Quorum - The quorum shall be [insert number] members of the Board. No
floating quorums are allowed.
Section 3: Official Actions - A simple majority vote by the Board members present, [select
one] □ not including abstentions OR □ including abstentions, at a meeting at which there is a
quorum shall be required to take official action, unless specified otherwise in these Bylaws.
Section 4: Terms and Term Limits - Board members shall serve a: [select one] □ two (2)
OR □ four (4) year OR □ *four year staggered term commencing after being seated. There
are: □ no term limits. OR □ Beginning in 2010, Board members may only serve [insert number]
consecutive years on the Council Board.
*Description of Staggered terms.
Section 5: Duties and Powers - The primary duties of the Board shall be to govern the
Council and to carry out its objectives. No individual member of the Board shall speak for the
Board or otherwise publicly represent a Board position unless authorized to do so by official
action of the Board. The Board may, by official action, delegate to any individual the authority
to present before any public body a standing Council position previously adopted by the Board
or a statement that the Council has had insufficient time to develop a position or
recommendation on a matter before that body. Such authority may be revoked at any time by
the Board.
Section 6: Vacancies – Vacancies on the Board shall be filled using the following procedure:


19

[select one]
□ Board Fills Vacancies
a. Any Stakeholder interested in filling a vacancy on the Board shall submit a written
application to the Board.
b. The Board shall cause the matter to be placed on the agenda for the next regular
meeting of the Board.
c. The Board shall vote on the application at the meeting. If multiple applications for
one seat have been submitted, the candidate with the most votes wins.
d. The candidate who wins shall fill the remaining term of the Board seat unless an
election or selection occurs sooner.
e. In no event shall a vacant seat be filled where a general election is scheduled to
occur within 60 days of the date that a written application is presented to the Board.
□ President Fills Vacancies
A vacancy on the Board shall be filled by a Stakeholder who satisfies the eligibility requirements
for holding the vacated Board seat. The President shall have the discretion to appoint the
vacancy from any applicants or among any other qualified Stakeholders at any time at a public
meeting. The appointed applicant's term shall be limited to the term for the vacated seat.
□ President Fills Vacancies with Board Approval
A vacancy on the Board shall be filled by a Stakeholder who satisfies the eligibility requirements
for holding the vacated Board seat. The President shall have the discretion to appoint the
vacancy from any applicants or among any other qualified Stakeholders at any time, subject to
a majority vote of the Board at a public meeting. The appointed applicant's term shall be
limited to the term for the vacated seat.
Section 7: Absences - Any Board Member who misses [insert number] regularly scheduled
consecutive Neighborhood Council Governing Board Meetings or, optionally, [insert number]
total Governing Board Meetings during any twelve (12) month period will be automatically
removed from the Board. Each Council Board Member absence shall be recorded in the
Council’s Meeting Minutes or other manner of Council record keeping, and that, upon missing
the required number of Board Meetings for removal, [select one] □ the Council Presiding
Officer shall notify the Board Member and provide notice to that Board Member that their seat
has been declared vacant. OR □ the Council Presiding Officer shall notify the Board Member
of the absences and place on the agenda the removal of the Board Member at a regular or
special Board meeting whereupon the Board shall determine the validity of the absences
before taking action to remove the Board Member. Any meeting of the Neighborhood Council
Governing Board, scheduled and noticed as per the Brown Act, shall constitute a meeting for
the purpose of determining Board Member attendance.
Section 8: Censure - The Council can take action to publically reprimand a Board member


20

for actions conducted in the course of Council business by censuring the Board member at a
Council Board meeting. Censures shall be placed on the agenda for discussion and action.
Section 9: Removal of Governing Board Members – The Council shall consult with the
Office of the City Attorney throughout any Board removal process. Board members may be
removed in the following ways:
1. Petition by Stakeholders– A Board member may be removed from office by the
submission of a written petition to the Secretary, which includes: i) the identity of the
Board member to be removed, ii) a description, in detail, of the reason for removal, and
iii) the valid signatures of [select one] □ fifty (50) OR □ [insert number] Stakeholders.
a. Upon receipt of a written petition for removal, the Secretary shall cause the
matter to be placed on the agenda for a vote of the Board at the next regular
Council meeting.
b. Removal of the identified Board member requires a [select one] □ majority of
the attending Board members (default) OR □ a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the
attending Board Members.
c. The Board Member who is the subject of the removal action shall have the
right to deliver to Board Members a written statement about the matter and/or to
speak at the Board Meeting prior to the vote, but shall not be counted as part of
the quorum, nor allowed to vote on the matter.
2. Petition by Board - A Board Member may be removed from the Board for good
cause, including, but not limited to, disruptive conduct; interfering with Council
business; violations of the Bylaws, Operating Procedures or Code of Conduct following
a Board Member’s submission to the Board of a petition which includes: i) the identity
of the Board Member to be removed, ii) states the reason for removal by identifying the
violation of the internal rules or procedures and specifies the conduct of the person, and
iii) contains the signatures of at least [select one] □ three (3) OR □ [insert number]
Board members.
a. The petition shall be delivered simultaneously to all Board Members and the
matter placed on the agenda and scheduled for a vote at the next regular Board
Meeting.
b. Removal of the identified Board member requires a [select one] □ two-thirds
(2/3) majority OR □ majority of the attending Board Members.
c. The Board Member who is the subject of the removal action shall have the
right to deliver to Board Members a written statement about the matter and/or to
speak at the Board Meeting prior to the vote, but shall not be counted as part of
the quorum, nor allowed to vote on the matter.
d. The Board member being removed must first have been censured by the
Board once for the same action before a Petition by the Board for removal shall
be considered by the Council.


21

If the vote for removal is affirmative, the position shall be deemed vacant and filled via the
Council’s vacancy clause.
Section 10: Resignation - A Board member may resign from the Council, and the position
shall then be deemed vacant. Any member of the Board who ceases to be a Stakeholder is
required to submit his or her resignation to the Board for discussion and action at a Board
meeting. Removal of the Board member requires a [select one] □ two-thirds (2/3) majority of
the attending Board members OR □ majority of the attending Board Members.
Section 11: Community Outreach - The Council shall direct that a system of outreach be
instituted to inform Stakeholders as to the existence and activities of the Council, including its
Board elections, to find future leaders of the Council, and to encourage all Stakeholders to
seek leadership positions within the Council.
[Additional Outreach Options]
□ The Council shall have a standing Outreach Committee, which will report its activities and
recommendations to the Board monthly at the regular Council meeting.
□ The Council shall maintain a web site presence to disseminate information to Council
Stakeholders and others interested in the Council.
□ In addition, the Board shall create, or shall cause to be created, a marketing plan to solicit
participation from Stakeholders. The plan may include, for example, the creation of flyers,
postcards, pamphlets and other related materials. It may also include e-mail blasts to various
organizations including a regularly scheduled e-blast to local government officials and to the
Chamber of Commerce, Neighborhood Watch, Home Owners’ Association and other local
organizations as determined by the Board.
□ Outreach also should be undertaken at public events and shall be coordinated with other
Neighborhood Councils when appropriate.
ARTICLE VI OFFICERS
Section 1: Officers of the Board - The officers of the Board (“Officers”) shall include the
following positions which all together comprise the Executive Committee: President, Vice
President, Secretary, and Treasurer.
Section 2: Duties and Powers - The duties of the Officers are as follows and also include
such additional duties as may be adopted by official action of the Board:
a. The President shall act as the chief executive of the Council and shall preside at all
Council meetings.
b. The Vice President shall serve in place of the President if the President is unable to
serve.


22

c. The Secretary shall keep minutes of all Board meetings. An Alternate Secretary may
be appointed by the Board to serve in the absence of the Secretary, as needed. Unless
the person serving as Alternate Secretary is already a Board member, he or she shall
not have any of the rights of a Board member, including the right to vote on matters
before the Council.
d. The Treasurer shall maintain the records of the Council's finances and books of
accounts and perform other duties in accordance with the Council's Financial
Management Plan and the Department’s policies and procedures.

Section 3: Selection of Officers [select one]
□ Officer positions shall be filled □ annually OR □ every [ number] years at the first official
Board meeting following their election or selection in Board election years, and at the
subsequent [insert number] year anniversary mark of the Officers’ election in Board nonelection years.
OR
□ Officer positions are elected during the elections of the Council.
Section 4: Officer Terms - The Officers shall serve [insert number] year terms and serve at
the pleasure of the Board. They may stand for reelection □ annually OR □ every [insert
number] years.
ARTICLE VII COMMITTEES AND THEIR DUTIES
All Standing and Ad Hoc Committees shall be established by the Board. Suggestions for
committees may come from Stakeholders or from members of the Board, and all such
suggestions shall be voted upon by the Board.
Section 1: Standing Committees – The Standing Committees of the Council are: [insert
committees such as: The Executive Committee, the Budget and Finance Committee, The
Outreach and Communications Committee, The Planning and Land Use Committee, The
Elections Committee, the Community Activities and Projects Committee, the Bylaws and
Procedures Committee, and the Public Safety Committee.]
Section 2: Ad Hoc Committees – The Board may create Ad Hoc Committees as needed to
deal with temporary issues.
Section 3: Committee Creation and Authorization
[can be in standing rules instead of bylaws]
a. Committee Authority - All committee recommendations shall be brought back to
the full Board for discussion and action.


23

b. Committee Structure – With the exception of the Executive Committee, Committee
members shall be appointed by the President and ratified by the Board. Standing
Committees shall be comprised of at least two (2) Board members and may include any
interested Stakeholders. Ad Hoc Committees shall be comprised of [insert number that
is less than a majority of quorum] or less Board members and may include any
interested Stakeholders.
c. Committee Appointment – All Committee Chairs shall be appointed by the [select
one] □ President and confirmed by the Board OR □ by the Board. [optional language
- Only those Committee members who are Board members are eligible to serve
as Chairman of a committee.] The Chairs shall keep a written record of Committee
meetings and shall provide regular reports on Committee matters to the Board.
d. Committee Meetings – Committee meetings are subject to and shall be conducted
in accordance with the dictates of the Brown Act. Minutes shall be taken at every
Committee meeting.
e. Changes to Committees - The Board may establish, disband or make changes as
needed to any Standing or Ad Hoc committee. Any such action by the Board shall be
noted in the Council meeting minutes.
f. Removal of Committee Members – Committee members may be removed in the
same manner in which they were appointed.
ARTICLE VIII MEETINGS
All meetings, as defined by the Ralph M. Brown Act (California Government Code Section
54950.5 et seq.), shall be noticed and conducted in accordance with the Act and all other
applicable laws and governmental policy.
Section 1: Meeting Time and Place - All meetings shall be held within the Council
boundaries at a location, date and time set by the Board. A calendar of regular meetings shall
be established by the Board at its first regular meeting of each calendar year.
a. Regular Meetings - Regular Council meetings shall be held at least once per quarter
and may be held more frequently as determined by the Board. Prior to any action by
the Board, there shall be a period of public comment. The Board shall determine the
length and format of the period as appropriate.
b. Special Meetings – The President or a majority of the Board shall be allowed to call
a Special Council Meeting as needed.
Section 2: Agenda Setting –
[select one]
□ The Executive Committee shall set the agenda for each Council meeting.


24

OR
□ The President shall set the agenda for each Council meeting.
AND can also include a stakeholder option, such as:
Any Stakeholder may make a proposal for action by the Council by submitting a written
request to the Secretary or during the public comment period of a regular Council
meeting. The Secretary shall promptly refer the proposal to a Standing Committee or, at the
next regular Council meeting, the Board shall either consider the proposal or create an Ad Hoc
Committee to consider the proposal. The Council is required to consider the proposal at a
Committee or Board meeting, but is not required to take further action on the proposal.
Proposals made under the this subsection are subject to the rules regarding reconsideration
Section 3: Notifications/Postings – Notice of a regular meeting shall be a minimum of three
(3) days (72 hours) in advance of the meeting and at least one (1) day (24 hours) in advance
of a special meeting. At a minimum, notice shall be posted at the Council’s five (5) Public
Notice Locations specified on the Posting Location Form filed with the Department, on its
website (if applicable) and emailed out to Stakeholders if the Council maintains such a
database. Regular and Special meeting agendas shall also be emailed to the Department.
Section 4: Reconsideration
[select one]
□ The Board may reconsider or amend its actions through a Motion for Reconsideration
process defined in its standing rules.
OR
□ The Board may reconsider or amend its actions through the following Motion for
Reconsideration process:
a. Before the Board reconsiders any matter, the Board must approve a Motion for
Reconsideration. The Motion for Reconsideration must be approved by official action of
the Board. After determining that an action should be reconsidered, the Board has the
authority to re-hear, continue, or take action on the item that is the subject of
reconsideration within any limitations that are stated in the Motion for Reconsideration.
b. The Motion for Reconsideration must be brought, and the Board's approval of
a Motion for Reconsideration must occur, either during the same meeting where the
Board initially acted or during the Board's next regularly scheduled meeting that follows
the meeting where the action subject to reconsideration occurred. The Council may
also convene a special meeting within these specified time frames to address a Motion
for Reconsideration.
c. A Motion for Reconsideration may be proposed only by a member of the
Board that previously voted on the prevailing side of the original action that was taken
by the Board (the "Moving Board Member").


25

d. The Moving Board Member may make the Motion for Reconsideration orally
during the same meeting where the action that is the subject of reconsideration
occurred, or by properly placing the Motion for Reconsideration on the agenda of a
meeting that occurs within the allowed specified periods of time as stated above.
e. In order to properly place the Motion for Reconsideration on the agenda of the
subsequent meeting, the Moving Board Member shall submit a memorandum to the
Secretary at least two (2) days in advance of the deadline for posting notices for the
meeting. The memorandum must briefly state the reason(s) for requesting the
reconsideration, and provide the Secretary with an adequate description of the
matter(s) to be re-heard and the proposed action that may be adopted by the Board if
the Motion for Reconsideration is approved.
f. A Motion for Reconsideration that is properly brought before the Board may
be seconded by any member of the Board.
g. This reconsideration process shall be conducted at all times in accordance
with the Brown Act.
ARTICLE IX FINANCES
[there should be no mention of checking accounts or petty cash in this article]
A. The Board shall review its fiscal budget and make adjustments as needed to comply with
City laws and City administrative rules, and to keep in compliance with Generally Accepted
Accounting Principles and the City’s mandate for the use of standardized budget and minimum
finding allocation requirements.
B. The Board shall adhere to all rules and regulations promulgated by appropriate City
officials regarding the Council’s finances, where the term “appropriate City officials” means
those officials and/or agencies of the City of Los Angeles who have authority over
Neighborhood Councils.
C. All financial accounts and records shall be available for public inspection and posted on the
Council website, if available.
D. Each month, the Treasurer shall provide to the Board detailed reports of the Council’s
accounts.
E. At least once each quarter, the President and at least one (1) other individual other than
the Treasurer, who is designated by the Board, shall examine the Council’s accounts and
attest to their accuracy before submitting the documentation to the Department for further
review.
F. The Council will not enter into any contracts or agreements except through the Department.
ARTICLE X ELECTIONS


26

Section 1: Administration of Election - The Neighborhood Council's election will be
conducted pursuant to any and all City ordinances, policies and procedures pertaining to
Neighborhood Council elections.
Section 2: Governing Board Structure and Voting - The number of Board seats, the
eligibility requirements for holding any specific Board seats, and which Stakeholders may vote
for the Board seats are noted in Attachment B.
Section 3: Minimum Voting Age - All Community Stakeholders aged [insert the desired age
which must be at least twelve (12) years old under the City Clerk’s proposed rules] and above
shall be entitled to vote in the Neighborhood Council Elections.
Section 4: Method of Verifying Stakeholder Status
[select one]
□ Voters will verify their Stakeholder status through written self-affirmation. Stakeholder status
may also be established by means of declaring a stake (or interest) in the neighborhood and
providing the facts to support that declaration.
OR
□ Voters will verify their Stakeholder status by providing acceptable documentation.
Stakeholder status may also be established by means of declaring a stake (or interest) in the
neighborhood and providing documentation supporting that declaration.
Section 5: Restrictions on Candidates Running for Multiple Seats
[select one]
□ A candidate shall declare their candidacy for no more than one (1) position on the Council
Board during a single election cycle.
OR
□ A candidate may declare their candidacy for more than one (1) position on the Council Board
during a single election cycle.
If a candidate seeking multiple Board positions on the Council is declared the winning
candidate for more than one of those positions, the candidate will be required to vacate all
except one (1) Board position within no more than three (3) days from the day the elections
are certified or from the day when any and all election recounts and challenges are resolved,
whichever date is later. These vacated positions shall be filled with the remaining candidate
who received the most votes, or if none, via the vacancy clause. Where the candidate does
not vacate all except one (1) Board position by the deadline, the candidate will be stripped of
all positions except for the position where the candidate received the most votes.


27

Section 6: Other Election Related Language [insert any other election related language or if
none, state “Not Applicable.”]
ARTICLE XI

GRIEVANCE PROCESS

[sample]
A. Any grievance by a Stakeholder must be submitted in writing to the Board who shall cause
the matter to be placed on the agenda for the next regular Council meeting.
B. At that meeting, the Board shall refer the matter to an Ad Hoc Grievance Panel comprised
of three (3) Stakeholders randomly selected by the Board from a list of Stakeholders who have
expressed an interest in serving from time-to-time on such a panel.
C. Within two (2) weeks of the panel’s selection, the Board shall coordinate a time and place
for the panel to meet with the person(s) submitting a grievance to discuss ways in which the
dispute may be resolved.
D. Within two (2) weeks following such meeting, a member of the panel shall prepare a written
report to be forwarded by the Secretary to the Board outlining the panel's collective
recommendations for resolving the grievance. The Board may receive a copy of the panel's
report and recommendations prior to a Board meeting, but, in accordance with the Brown Act,
the matter shall not be discussed among the Board members until it is heard publicly at the
next regular Council meeting.
E. This grievance process is intended to address matters involving procedural disputes, such
as the Board's failure to comply with Board Rules or these Bylaws. It is not intended to apply to
Stakeholders who merely disagree with a position or action taken by the Board at one of its
meetings, which grievances may be aired publicly at Council meetings.
F. Board members are not permitted to file a grievance against another Board member or
against the Council.
ARTICLE XII PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
The Council shall use the: [select one]
□ Council rules of order when conducting Council meetings as set forth in its standing rules.
OR
□ Rosenberg’s rules of order when conducting Council meetings. If Rosenberg’s rules of order
are silent on an issue, the Council shall refer to Robert’s rules of order.
OR
□ Robert’s rules of order when conducting Council meetings.
Additional rules and/or policies and procedures regarding the conduct of the Board and/or
Council meetings may be developed and adopted by the Board.


28

ARTICLE XIII AMENDMENTS
A. Any Board member may propose an amendment to these Bylaws by requesting that the
Secretary place the item on the agenda.
B. Any Stakeholder may propose an amendment to these Bylaws during the public comment
period of a regular Council meeting.
C. Any proposal to amend the Bylaws shall be formalized in writing and noticed on the agenda
for public discussion and Board vote at the next regular Council meeting.
D. An amendment to these bylaws requires a [select one] □ two-thirds OR □ simple majority
vote of the Board members present at a duly noticed general or special meeting. All changes
shall then be forwarded to the Department for review and approval.
E. Amendments shall not be valid, final or effective until approved by the Department. Once
approved, any changes in the Bylaws shall become effective immediately.
[Other Amendment Option]
Any Board member or Stakeholder may propose an amend to these Bylaws. The Board shall
forward all proposals to a Bylaws Committee to review and to provide recommendations to the
Board.
ARTICLE XIV COMPLIANCE
The Council, its representatives, and all Community Stakeholders shall comply with these
Bylaws and with any additional Standing Rules or Procedures as may be adopted by the
Board of Directors as well as all local, county, state and federal laws, including, without
limitation, the Plan for Citywide System of Government (hereinafter referred to as “the Plan”),
the City Code of Conduct, the City Governmental Ethics Ordinance (Los Angeles Municipal
Code Section 49.5.1), the Brown Act (California Government Code Section 54950.5 et seq.),
the Public Records Act, the American Disabilities Act, and all laws and governmental policies
pertaining to Conflicts of Interest.
Section 1: Code of Civility – The Council, its representatives, and all Community
Stakeholders shall conduct all Council business in a civil, professional and respectful manner.
Section 2: Training – All Board members shall take training in the fundamentals of
Neighborhood Council, including, but not limited to, ethics, funding, workplace violence and
sexual harassment trainings provided by the City within forty-five (45) days of being seated, or
they will lose their Council voting rights.
Section 3: Self Assessment – Every year, the Council shall conduct a self assessment
pursuant to Article VI, Section 1 of the Plan.


29

ATTACHMENT A [NSNC Example]


30

ATTACHMENT B
BOARD POSITION

ELECTED OR
APPOINTED?

ELIGIBILITY TO RUN
FOR THE SEAT

ELIGIBILITY TO
VOTE FOR THE SEAT

[Below find sample language for Stakeholder eligibility to run and vote for positions. Where the Stakeholder eligibility for
the seat has not been defined, the default eligibility to establish candidacy for the position would be the Neighborhood
Council’s Stakeholder definition.
President

Elected

Community-Based
Organization
Representative

Elected

At-large Representative

Elected

Stakeholder

Community Stakeholder who is 13
years of age at the time of the
election.
Stakeholder who is at least 18 years Stakeholder who is 16 years of age.
of age at the time of the election, who
is a member of a community based
organization or a faith-based group.
Any Stakeholder who is at least 18 Any Stakeholder who is at least 18
years of age at the time of the years of age at the time of the
election.
election.

[Below find sample language for candidacy and voter eligibility in districts.]
Homeowner Representative
Area 3

Elected

Stakeholder who is 16 years of age or
older who lives within Area 3 of the
council boundaries, and owns and
occupies their place of residence
whether single- or multi-family.

Homeowner Stakeholder who is 16
years of age or older who lives within
Area 3. Must live and own place of
residence.

Sub-Area Representative
At-large Stakeholder Seat

Elected

Stakeholder who may be a resident of Community Stakeholder who is 13 at
the Sub-area or any other the time of the election.
Stakeholder category group in the
Sub-area.

[Below find sample language for candidacy and voter eligibility for the factual basis position.]
Community Director

Elected

Stakeholder older than 18 years who
lives, works, or owns property or
those who declare a stake in the
neighborhood and affirm the factual
basis for it.


Stakeholder who lives, works, or owns
property in the neighborhood and also
those who declare a stake in the
neighborhood and affirm the factual
basis for it.

31

Empowerment Congress Central ANDC Bylaws

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