Board Appointments and Presentation of a New Short Term Investment Policy
The following are highlights from the KCBA Board of Trustees meetings held on September 20, convened by KCBA President Karen Orehoski.
After President Orehoski called the meeting to order, the Board approved the meeting minutes for the Board meeting on August 16, 2023. Treasurer Wang reported things are looking good and right on track so far this year.
President Orehoski welcomed new trustee, retired Judge Richard F. McDermott to the Board. She also congratulated Mr. Paul Crisalli for his recent appointment to the King County Superior Court Bench and noted he would be leaving the Board after today’s meeting. She encouraged the trustees to attend the upcoming Bench-Bar event on November 10 and the fall Swearing-In Ceremonies on October 4. In addition, the Past Presidents’ Reception boasted a great turn out and she noted how fortunate we are to have such knowledgeable and talented past leaders as part of the Bar. She suggested setting up an ad hoc committee to capture their knowledge to the benefit of both the Association and Foundation.
NLD Chair Alyssa Nevala reported the NLD had a great turnout at their retreat and presented highlights for their upcoming events including yearly Happy Hour events with the two law schools, Seattle University and University of Washington. NLD has updated its website to keep members engaged and well informed and is also in the process of filling a board vacancy.
Executive Director Coad provided the highlights of her report. She also lauded the excellent work of KCBA team members Bridget Schuster and Casey Almas for putting on a successful Past Board Presidents’ Reception.
The Board handled a few business matters including voting unanimously to appoint Joel C. Merkel, Jr. to the Board to fill the three-year term that became vacant due to a member’s inability to complete their term and passed unanimously to appoint Michelle Pham as the new Secretary for FY2024 to replace Paul Crisalli. The Board also reviewed a new Short-Term Investment Policy presented by Treasurer Wang. After discussion and input from several trustees, the policy discussion was tabled until the October meeting.
The Judiciary and Litigation Committee Co-Chairs Katie Comstock and Colin Mieling briefed the Board on the Committee’s history and processes. After the presentation, President Orehoski advised she has completed committee assignments and trustees are welcome to join additional committees of interest.
Ms. Jensen on behalf of Bridget Schuster, Member Services Director, reported the renewal campaign was continuing albeit with some delays in the renewal process due to the changes in the membership database and the team was working to reach members directly.
President Orehoski and Executive Director Coad announced a new task force to oversee the Housing Justice Project’s spinoff process including evaluation of current structure and staffing, resource sharing, and the financial health and risk exposure to KCBA and HJP.
Before adjourning, President Orehoski and the Board bid farewell and best wishes to exiting trustee, Paul Crisalli. He was presented with an award in recognition of all his hard work, contributions, and dedication to the KCBA community over the years.
