April 2025 Member Meeting Minutes

Meeting Summary – April 16, 2025

Minutes taken by Sean Thomas

1. Membership & Community Building

   • Focus on maintaining a community-centered space. Members suggested creating opportunities for work exchange, where individuals can work in exchange for discounted membership.

   • Concerns about ensuring the system doesn’t allow for exploitation, with a proposal to vet members' skills through an application process and potentially a review system.

   • Discussion around limiting work-exchange positions to maintain quality and community fit. Considered using a feedback system for those who are part of the program.

2. Student Memberships

   • The student membership might be phased out in favor of work-exchange options. Current members with student status will be grandfathered in.

   • The work-exchange model could also allow students to become more involved, with greater responsibility and opportunity.

3. Responsibilities & Accountability

   • The importance of ensuring accountability in work-exchange positions was emphasized, with suggestions for backup plans and a review system for performance.

   • Members agreed on a system where those who miss shifts are responsible for finding a substitute.

4. Studio Management

   • Rachel (Studio Manager) will lead the implementation and management of work-exchange and membership systems, with the board overseeing general operations.

   • Updates on studio maintenance: the fan and printer were fixed, and there was a reminder about proper usage of the equipment.

5. Guest Policy & Facility Use

   • It was noted that non-members could use the studio if a member emails the board in advance and make proper arrangements.

   • It was agreed that clear communication about guests and their fees is necessary to maintain smooth operations.

6. Upcoming Events & Studio Activities

   • April 15th: Open critique for sharing work, including works from Bakery member Don Peterson.

   • May 11th: Open Studio event for film developing and contact printing.

   • Andrew’s intro to black-and-white class ended, and a new one starts next Wednesday.

7. Financial Management

   • The board discussed membership pricing, especially related to studio rental and equipment usage, including laser printing rates.

   • Printer ink and paper costs were reviewed, with a possible increase in charges due to rising costs. The plan to better track usage and adjust prices accordingly was mentioned.

8. Technology & Equipment

   • The issue with the printer was resolved, and maintenance on equipment was highlighted. The knife was replaced.

   • A note was made about ink cartridges and printers being monitored for compliance with copyright protection measures.

9. Final Notes

   • The meeting ended with a brief reminder about the 30-day payment policy for members and renters.