The fundamental operating principle of every credit union is democratic ownership: every member has at least one share and one, but no more than one, vote in the decision-making process. All members, therefore, are equal owners, regardless of the number of shares they hold individually or the size of their respective credit union deposits. Every member has the right to seek election to the board of directors.

Elections generally take place at the credit union’s annual meeting. This important meeting:

• provides an opportunity for the board of directors to report to members on the activities of the credit union over the past year
• serves as a forum for discussing matters of concern to members
• gives members the opportunity to vote on policy decisions and any proposed amendments to the bylaws of their credit union