New Vrindaban’s Monthly Joint Boards’ Meeting Minutes – 10/17/13
Monthly Meeting Minutes of the Boards of Directors
for ISKCON New Vrindaban & ECOV – 10/17/13.
ISKCON New Vrindaban (INV) Vision Statement: Founded in 1968, Srila Prabhupada boldly envisions New Vrindaban as a sacred place known worldwide for Cow Protection, Self-Sufficiency, Holy Pilgrimage, Spiritual Education, and, above all, Loving Krishna.
ECO-Vrindaban Mission Statement: ECOV (Earth, Cows, Opportunities & Vrindaban Villages) is dedicated to cow protection, sustainable agriculture, self-sufficiency and simple living — all centered around loving service to Sri Krishna, as envisioned by the ISKCON New Vrindaban Founder-Acharya, His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
Present from ISKCON New Vrindaban (INV): Dayavira, Jaya Krsna, Gopisa, Ranaka, Chaitanya Mangala
Present from ECO-Vrindaban (ECOV): Madhava Gosh, Ranaka, Chaitanya Mangala
Recording Secretary: Laxmi Honest
The first item was a discussion about adding new members to the INV and ECOV boards. Previously, both boards agreed on the importance of encouraging Second Generation devotees to take on more active roles. Based on preliminary conversations, both Keval Patel and Bhima Walker have expressed interest in volunteering their time and expertise in this capacity. It was agreed that they be invited to participate in the upcoming November face to face meetings. It was further agreed that the boards authorize covering reasonable travel expenses as well as meals and lodging during their stay.
The second item was a conversation regarding the itinerary for the November meetings. Chaitanya Mangala provided a suggested format for the agenda items received so far. The categories were agreed upon, but some items may be shifted in the schedule depending on practical applications. It was agreed that Dayavira, Navin Shyam and Chaitanya Mangala will continue to develop the agenda and share it with the rest of the joint board members for final approval.
Madhava Gosh gave an update on anticipated royalty payments from the Snyder H1 gas well. He noted that his research indicates West Virginia does not have any laws governing the prompt payment of mineral proceeds. Many states have such laws and there is apparent reason for this since the gas company seems to be stalling. Madhava Gosh suggested that any new contracts should include a stipulation that payments be made timely. Gopisa agreed to contact the company and encourage them to act on this.
The INV board finalized funding for Gopal’s Garden 2013-2014 academic year. There was a unanimous vote that INV will contribute the requested $12,000. On behalf of Gopal’s Garden, Ranaka will inform INV when the funds are needed.
There was a general discussion about publicly reporting compensation for key management positions. There wasn’t a conclusion, but the board members are aware it is an issue that requires additional consideration as we continue to develop our overall strategy for improved transparency.
Madhava Gosh raised a concern about a recent public statement made to guests that if they contributed in a certain way their whole family would be absolved of all sinful activities. It was agreed that this is not the way we want to present ourselves and Jaya Krsna will address this privately with the devotee who was overheard making the statement.
