OVAS Constitution

Article 1 – name

1. The organization shall be known as the Ottawa Valley Aquarium Society, hereinafter known as OVAS.

2. OVAS is a non-profit organization with the following objectives:

a) to further the study of all forms of aquatic life
b) to promote interest, exchange ideas, and distribute information concerning the hobby
c) to encourage breeding and displaying of aquatic life
d) to work toward the conservation of endangered species.

Article 2 – membership

1. Any person interested in the activities of OVAS shall be eligible for membership, and subject to its constitution and by-laws.

Article 3 – organization

1. The society shall have the following officers and committee chairs:

OFFICERS:

a) President
b) Vice-President
c) Secretary
d) Treasurer

CHAIRS:

a) Programs
b) Membership
c) Breeders Award Program
d) Librarian
e) Webmaster
f) Auction
g) Social Convener
h) Corporate and Public Relations
i) Past President

2. The officers and standing committee constitute an Executive Committee, which shall manage and direct the affairs of the society.

3. Other chairs may be added as deemed necessary.

4. The above committee members shall have such duties as are customary to their offices or may be assigned in our by-laws.

5. Officers and Chairs will be elected or appointed for a term of one year.

6. Executive members shall keep an accurate record of their acts and proceedings, and report to the society at any annual business meetings, or on demand.

7. The executive shall have the power to fill any vacancies which may occur until the next election.

8. In case of absence and/or resignation, the order of succession to the Presidency shall follow the order listed in Article 3 Section 1.

9.  Any executive member of the OVAS, if found unsatisfactory in their position or actions deemed detrimental to the OVAS may be relieved of their duties, upon receipt of a formal written complaint by the executive and pending a two-thirds vote in favour of dismissal by the executive committee.

Article 4 – meetings, etc.

1. OVAS shall hold monthly meetings at such time and place as shall be arranged by the executive committee. Regular meetings shall be open to the public.

2. Any business meetings shall be held at such time and place as deemed by the executive.

3. The executive committee shall hold regular monthly meetings.

Article 5 – dues

1. All members shall be required to pay dues as set forth in our by-laws.

2. Executive committee members are entitled to complimentary membership during the term of their office in appreciation for their service to the club.

Article 6 – amendment

1. To amend or repeal this Constitution or any part of it, it shall be necessary that the proposed amendment be presented in writing signed by at least three members in good standing.

2. The proposed amendment shall be read at the next regular meeting and voted on at that time.

3. The affirmative vote of the majority of all members in attendance shall be required for the adoption of an amendment to this constitution.