Non-Member Shopping

This proposal is to allow non-members to be able to shop from the coop, while reserving voting privileges to dues-paying members.

Background

Currently, only dues-paying members are allowed to shop with the coop.

Problem

By restricting who is allowed to shop, we are reducing the overall volume of goods that we could be providing for people. If the volume of sales were to increase, we would be able to

1. negotiate for lower prices from Chicano Sol (and any other provider), and
2. provide cheaper and higher-quality goods to people in the community.

Solution

To increase shopping, this proposal recommends that we open up access to the Meso app to any resident in DC, provided they are willing to pick their order up from the Lutheran church on Sunday (or other negotiated pickup location). Those who shop through us and do not pay dues will be known as customers, in contrast to dues-paying members.

Monthly Dues

Instead of dues, the coop reserves the right to institute a percentage surcharge on each order for non-member customers. This surcharge would be raised in the future if a need is assessed, but this proposal recommends a 3% surcharge to start.

Only dues-paying members would be able to vote at coop meetings.

Customers would be able to vote in non-binding surveys that the coop may decide to issue.

Conclusion

This proposal recommends allowing non-members to shop at the coop and to charge them a 3% surcharge.