New Mexico Care Collective - Bylaws

Mission Statement

The New Mexico Care Collective is a mutual aid network dedicated to fostering community resilience and equity. Our mission is to provide housing assistance, ensure food security, and develop cooperatives for insurance, agriculture, and land ownership, empowering individuals and families in New Mexico to thrive.

Preamble

These bylaws establish the governance structure, policies, and procedures of the New Mexico Care Collective. They are designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective operation in pursuit of our mission. By adhering to these bylaws, we commit to building a just, inclusive, and sustainable community.

Core Values

Solidarity
We stand together as a community, rooted in mutual aid and collective responsibility. We believe in supporting one another to create a more just and equitable world.

Sustainability
We are committed to practices that protect our environment, conserve resources, and ensure the well-being of future generations. Our actions today reflect our care for tomorrow.

Food Sovereignty
We empower our community to control its food systems, ensuring access to nutritious, culturally appropriate food grown through ethical and sustainable practices.

Community
We prioritize the strength and resilience of our community, fostering connections, collaboration, and shared decision-making to address our collective needs.

Dignity
We honor the inherent worth of every individual, treating all with respect, compassion, and fairness in everything we do.

Section 1: Name and Purpose

1.1 Name

The name of this organization shall be the New Mexico Care Collective (hereinafter referred to as "the Collective").

1.2 Mission Statement

The New Mexico Care Collective is a mutual aid network dedicated to fostering community resilience and equity. Our mission is to provide housing assistance, ensure food security, and develop cooperatives for insurance, agriculture, and land ownership, empowering individuals and families in New Mexico to thrive.

1.3 Goals and Objectives

The Collective shall:

Provide financial and logistical support to members facing housing insecurity.

Establish programs to ensure access to nutritious food for all members.

Develop and support member-owned cooperatives for insurance, agriculture, and land ownership.

Foster a culture of solidarity and shared responsibility among members.

Promote sustainable practices in housing, agriculture, and resource management.

Section 2: Membership

2.1 Eligibility

Membership in the New Mexico Care Collective is open to all individuals who:

Reside in the state of New Mexico.

Support the mission and goals of the Collective.

Commit to contributing to the mutual aid efforts of the organization, either through financial contributions or volunteer participation.

2.2 Rights and Responsibilities

Rights

Members shall have the right to:

Participate in member meetings and vote on organizational matters.

Access the Collective’s programs and services, including housing assistance, food security initiatives, and cooperative opportunities.

Receive regular updates on the organization’s activities and financial status.

Serve on committees or run for positions on the Board of Directors, if eligible.

Responsibilities

Members shall:

Pay a monthly membership fee of $25, unless granted a waiver or sliding scale adjustment due to financial hardship.

Uphold the values of mutual aid, solidarity, and equity in their interactions with the Collective and its members.

Participate in the Collective’s activities and initiatives to the best of their ability.

Adhere to the bylaws, policies, and decisions of the Collective.

2.3 Membership Process

Application: Individuals seeking membership must complete an application form, providing basic contact information and affirming their commitment to the Collective’s mission.

Approval: Applications shall be reviewed by the Membership Committee or designated staff, and approval shall be granted unless there is a compelling reason for denial.

Orientation: New members shall receive an orientation to the Collective’s programs, services, and expectations.

Fee Payment: Membership shall be considered active upon payment of the first monthly fee or approval of a fee waiver.

2.4 Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated under the following circumstances:

Voluntary Resignation: A member may resign by submitting written notice to the Collective.

Non-Payment: Membership may be terminated if fees are unpaid for three consecutive months, unless alternative arrangements have been made.

Violation of Policies: Membership may be revoked by a majority vote of the Board of Directors if a member engages in behavior that violates the Collective’s values, bylaws, or policies.

Appeals: Members who wish to appeal a termination decision may submit a written appeal to the Board of Directors within 30 days of notification.

Section 3: Board of Directors

3.1 Roles and Responsibilities

The Board of Directors (hereinafter referred to as "the Board") shall ensure that the New Mexico Care Collective operates smoothly and in accordance with its mission, values, and guiding principles. The Board’s responsibilities include:

Providing strategic direction and oversight for the Collective.

Holding the Executive Director accountable for the organization’s operations and performance.

Evaluating and, if necessary, replacing the Executive Director.

Approving the annual budget, major financial decisions, and organizational policies.

Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

3.2 Composition

The Board shall consist of a minimum of three members, each holding one of the following mandatory roles:

Chair: Responsible for leading Board meetings, setting agendas, and ensuring the Board fulfills its duties.

Secretary: Responsible for maintaining records of Board meetings, including minutes, and ensuring proper documentation of organizational decisions.

Treasurer: Responsible for overseeing the Collective’s finances, including budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with financial policies.

Additional board members may be elected or appointed as needed to support the Collective’s growth and operations.

3.3 Terms

Term Length: Board members shall serve standard terms of two years.

Term Limits: Board members may serve a maximum of three consecutive terms.

Staggered Terms: To ensure continuity, terms shall be staggered so that no more than half of the Board is replaced in a single year.

3.4 Meetings

Frequency: The Board shall meet quarterly (four times per year).

Special Meetings: Special meetings may be called by the Chair, the Executive Director, or at the request of at least two Board members.

Notice: Members shall be notified of meetings at least 14 days in advance, with an agenda provided at least 7 days in advance.

3.5 Quorum

A quorum for Board meetings shall consist of a minimum of three members. Decisions shall be made by a majority vote of those present, provided a quorum is met.

Section 4: Officers

4.1 Roles and Responsibilities

The officers of the New Mexico Care Collective shall include the Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, each of whom shall serve on the Board of Directors. Their specific responsibilities are as follows:

Chair:

Preside over all Board and membership meetings.

Ensure the Board fulfills its duties and operates in accordance with the bylaws.

Act as the primary liaison between the Board and the Executive Director.

Represent the Collective in external matters, as needed.

Secretary:

Record and maintain minutes of all Board and membership meetings.

Ensure proper notice is given for meetings and that agendas are distributed in advance.

Maintain official records of the Collective, including bylaws, policies, and membership records.

Treasurer:

Oversee the Collective’s financial affairs, including budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with financial policies.

Work with the Executive Director to prepare and present the annual budget to the Board for approval.

Ensure the organization’s financial practices are transparent and accountable.

4.2 Election and Term

Election: Officers shall be elected by a simple majority vote of the Board of Directors at the first meeting following the annual membership meeting.

Term Length: Officers shall serve terms of two years, coinciding with their terms as Board members.

Term Limits: Officers may serve a maximum of three consecutive terms in the same role.

4.3 Removal

An officer may be removed from their role by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors for failure to fulfill their duties, misconduct, or actions contrary to the Collective’s mission and values. The officer shall be given written notice of the proposed removal and an opportunity to respond before a final vote is taken.

4.4 Vacancies

If an officer position becomes vacant, the Board shall elect a replacement to serve the remainder of the term at the next scheduled meeting or at a special meeting called for that purpose.

Section 5: Decision-Making and Executive Director Authority

5.1 Executive Director Authority

The Executive Director (ED) shall have full authority to manage the day-to-day operations of the New Mexico Care Collective, including but not limited to:

Implementing programs and services in alignment with the Collective’s mission and approved budget.

Supervising staff and volunteers.

Making operational decisions, including entering into contracts or agreements under $10,000, without prior Board approval.

5.2 Board Oversight

The Board of Directors shall retain authority over:

Approving the annual budget and major financial commitments.

Setting organizational policies and strategic direction.

Hiring, evaluating, and terminating the Executive Director.

5.3 Expedited Decision-Making

Thresholds: The ED may make decisions on operational matters independently, provided they fall within the approved budget and align with the Collective’s mission and policies.

Emergency Authority: In emergencies, the ED may take necessary actions to protect the Collective’s interests, with a requirement to report such actions to the Board at the next meeting.

Consent Agenda: Routine or non-controversial items may be approved by the Board via a consent agenda to expedite decision-making.

5.4 Reporting and Accountability

The ED shall provide the Board with regular updates on operations, finances, and key decisions.

The ED shall attend all Board meetings and present a report on organizational activities.

All decisions and actions taken by the ED shall be documented and made accessible to the Board.

Section 6: Committees

6.1 Purpose

Committees shall be established to support the work of the New Mexico Care Collective by focusing on specific areas of need, such as programs, fundraising, or governance. Committees shall operate under the direction of the Board of Directors and in alignment with the Collective’s mission and bylaws.

6.2 Establishment and Dissolution

Creation: The Board may establish standing or ad hoc committees as needed to address specific organizational priorities.

Dissolution: The Board may dissolve any committee that is no longer necessary or effective.

6.3 Committee Structure

Composition: Each committee shall consist of at least two members, including a chairperson. Committee members may include Board members, staff, and volunteers.

Chairperson: The chairperson shall be appointed by the Board and shall be responsible for leading committee meetings, reporting to the Board, and ensuring the committee fulfills its responsibilities.

Term: Committee members shall serve at the discretion of the Board, with terms aligned to the committee’s purpose and scope.

6.4 Responsibilities

Scope of Work: Each committee shall have a clearly defined scope of work, approved by the Board, outlining its purpose, goals, and deliverables.

Reporting: Committees shall report regularly to the Board on their activities, progress, and recommendations.

Decision-Making: Committees may make recommendations to the Board but shall not have independent decision-making authority unless explicitly delegated by the Board.

6.5 Standing Committees

The following standing committees may be established disolved as needed:

Executive Committee: Composed of the Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, to act on behalf of the Board between meetings in urgent matters.

Program Committee: To oversee the development and implementation of the Collective’s programs, including housing assistance, food security, and cooperative initiatives.

Finance Committee: To assist the Treasurer in budget preparation, financial oversight, and fundraising efforts.

Governance Committee: To review and recommend updates to the bylaws, policies, and governance practices.

6.6 Ad Hoc Committees

Ad hoc committees may be created for short-term projects or specific tasks, such as event planning, policy development, or special initiatives. These committees shall be dissolved upon completion of their assigned tasks.

6.7 Committee Meetings

Frequency: Committees shall meet as needed to fulfill their responsibilities, with meetings scheduled at the discretion of the chairperson.

Quorum: A majority of committee members shall constitute a quorum for decision-making.

Minutes: Committees shall maintain records of their meetings and actions, which shall be shared with the Board.

6.8 Addendum

The Board shall have the authority to establish, modify, or dissolve committees as needed to meet the evolving needs of the New Mexico Care Collective, ensuring that committees are aligned with the organization’s mission and resources.

Section 7: Fiscal Management

7.1 Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the New Mexico Care Collective shall begin on January 1 and end on December 31 of each year.

7.2 Budget

Preparation: The Executive Director, in collaboration with the Treasurer and Finance Committee (if established), shall prepare an annual budget for approval by the Board of Directors.

Approval: The Board shall review and approve the annual budget prior to the start of the fiscal year.

Amendments: The Board may amend the budget as necessary during the fiscal year, with any significant changes requiring a majority vote.

7.3 Financial Oversight

Responsibility: The Treasurer, in consultation with the Finance Committee (if established), shall oversee the Collective’s financial affairs, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Reporting: The Treasurer shall provide the Board with regular financial reports, including income, expenses, and budget variances.

Audit: The Board may authorize an independent audit of the Collective’s financial records as needed.

7.4 Banking and Accounts

Accounts: All funds of the Collective shall be deposited in accounts maintained at financial institutions approved by the Board.

Signatories: The Executive Director, Treasurer, and one additional Board member shall be authorized signatories on the Collective’s accounts. Two signatures shall be required for transactions above a threshold set by the Board (e.g., $5,000).

7.5 Financial Policies

Expenditures: All expenditures shall be made in accordance with the approved budget and organizational policies.

Reimbursements: Staff and volunteers may be reimbursed for approved expenses incurred on behalf of the Collective, subject to documentation and approval by the Executive Director or Treasurer.

Fundraising: The Collective shall maintain clear policies for accepting and managing donations, grants, and other fundraising income.

7.6 Asset Management

Protection: The Board shall ensure that the Collective’s assets, including financial resources, property, and intellectual property, are protected and used solely to further the organization’s mission.

Disposition: The sale, transfer, or disposal of significant assets shall require Board approval.

7.7 Conflict of Interest

Policy: The Collective shall adopt and enforce a Conflict of Interest Policy to ensure that financial decisions are made in the best interest of the organization.

Disclosure: Board members, officers, and key staff shall disclose any potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from related decisions.

7.8 Dissolution

In the event of the dissolution of the New Mexico Care Collective, any remaining assets shall be distributed to one or more nonprofit organizations with a similar mission, as determined by the Board and in compliance with applicable laws.

7.9 Addendum

The New Mexico Care Collective is committed to financial transparency and accountability. All financial records shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and made available to the Board, members, and regulatory authorities as required.

Section 8: Meetings

8.1 Annual Meeting

Purpose: The Collective shall hold an annual meeting of the membership to:

Review the organization’s progress and accomplishments.

Present the annual budget and financial report.

Elect Board members (if applicable).

Address other matters as needed.

Agenda: The Executive Director, in consultation with the Board, shall prepare the agenda for the annual meeting.

Notification: Notice of the annual meeting shall be provided to members at least 30 days in advance via email, push notification (if applicable), and paper mail upon request.

8.2 Board Meetings

Frequency: The Board of Directors shall meet quarterly (four times per year) to conduct business and provide oversight.

Special Meetings: Special meetings may be called by the Chair or at the request of at least two Board members.

Agenda: The Chair, in consultation with the Executive Director, shall prepare the agenda for Board meetings.

Notification: Notice of Board meetings, including the agenda, shall be provided to Board members at least 14 days in advance via email, push notification (if applicable), and paper mail upon request.

8.3 Committee Meetings

Frequency: Committees shall meet as needed to fulfill their responsibilities, with meetings scheduled at the discretion of the committee chairperson.

Notification: Committee members shall be notified of meetings at least 7 days in advance via email, push notification (if applicable), and paper mail upon request.

8.4 Quorum

Annual Meeting: A quorum for the annual meeting shall consist of 10% of the membership or 25 members, whichever is smaller.

Board Meetings: A quorum for Board meetings shall consist of a majority of the Board members.

Committee Meetings: A quorum for committee meetings shall consist of a majority of the committee members.

8.5 Voting

Eligibility: Only members in good standing (e.g., those with paid or waived membership fees) may vote at the annual meeting.

Method: Voting may occur in person, electronically, or by mail, as determined by the Board.

Majority: Decisions shall be made by a majority vote of those present, provided a quorum is met.

8.6 Minutes

Recording: Minutes of all meetings shall be recorded by the Secretary or a designated individual.

Approval: Minutes shall be approved at the next meeting of the respective body (e.g., Board minutes approved at the next Board meeting).

Distribution: Approved minutes shall be distributed to members or committee participants and maintained in the Collective’s records.

8.7 Remote Participation

Members, Board members, and committee participants may participate in meetings remotely via video conferencing, phone, or other electronic means, provided they can actively participate and vote.

Section 9: Amendments

9.1 Proposal of Amendments

Submission: Amendments to these bylaws may be proposed by:

A majority vote of the Board of Directors.

A petition signed by at least 10% of the membership.

Content: Proposed amendments shall include the specific language of the changes and a rationale for the amendment.

9.2 Notice of Proposed Amendments

Timing: Notice of proposed amendments shall be provided to members at least 30 days prior to the vote.

Method: Notice shall be sent via email, push notification (if applicable), and paper mail upon request.

Content: The notice shall include:

The full text of the proposed amendment.

The date, time, and location of the meeting at which the amendment will be voted on.

Instructions for remote participation or voting, if applicable.

9.3 Approval of Amendments

Board Approval: Amendments may be approved by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors at a duly noticed meeting.

Member Approval: If required by law or deemed necessary by the Board, amendments may also be submitted to the membership for approval by a majority vote of those present at the annual meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose.

9.4 Effective Date

Amendments shall take effect immediately upon approval unless otherwise specified in the amendment.

9.5 Record of Amendments

All amendments to the bylaws shall be recorded and maintained with the official records of the New Mexico Care Collective. The Secretary shall ensure that the bylaws are updated to reflect approved amendments and that members are notified of the changes.

Section 10: Dissolution

10.1 Initiation of Dissolution

Proposal: A proposal to dissolve the New Mexico Care Collective may be initiated by:

A two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors.

A petition signed by at least 25% of the membership.

Notice: Notice of the proposed dissolution shall be provided to all members at least 60 days in advance of the vote, via email, push notification (if applicable), and paper mail upon request. The notice shall include:

The reasons for the proposed dissolution.

The date, time, and location of the meeting at which the dissolution will be voted on.

Instructions for remote participation or voting, if applicable.

10.2 Approval of Dissolution

Board Vote: The Board of Directors shall vote on the dissolution proposal at a duly noticed meeting. A two-thirds vote of the Board is required to approve the proposal.

Member Vote: If required by law or deemed necessary by the Board, the dissolution proposal shall also be submitted to the membership for approval. A two-thirds vote of the members present at the annual meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose is required to approve the dissolution.

10.3 Winding Up Affairs

Responsibility: Upon approval of dissolution, the Board of Directors shall oversee the winding up of the Collective’s affairs, including:

Settling all outstanding debts and obligations.

Collecting any receivables.

Liquidating assets, if necessary.

Final Reporting: The Board shall ensure that all final tax filings, financial reports, and legal documents are completed and submitted as required by law.

10.4 Distribution of Assets

Restrictions: No part of the Collective’s net assets shall be distributed to any member, director, officer, or private individual.

Beneficiaries: Any remaining assets after satisfying all debts and obligations shall be distributed to one or more nonprofit organizations with a similar mission, as determined by the Board and in compliance with applicable laws.

10.5 Final Meeting

Purpose: A final meeting of the Board shall be held to:

Approve the final distribution of assets.

Adopt a plan of dissolution.

File the necessary paperwork with state and federal authorities.

Documentation: Minutes of the final meeting shall be recorded and maintained with the Collective’s official records.

10.6 Legal Compliance

The dissolution process shall comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including but not limited to:

Filing articles of dissolution with the appropriate state authority.

Notifying the IRS and other relevant agencies of the dissolution.

Ensuring that all tax-exempt status requirements are met during the dissolution process.

10.7 Addendum

In the event of dissolution, the New Mexico Care Collective shall ensure that its assets are used exclusively for charitable purposes, in accordance with its mission and applicable laws. No individual shall benefit financially from the dissolution of the organization.

Section 11: Conflict of Interest Policy

11.1 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the decisions and actions of the New Mexico Care Collective are made in the best interest of the organization and its mission, free from undue influence or personal gain.

11.2 Definition of Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest arises when a Board member, officer, staff member, or volunteer (hereinafter referred to as "Covered Persons") has a personal, financial, or professional interest that could compromise their ability to act in the best interest of the Collective.

11.3 Disclosure

Annual Disclosure: All Covered Persons shall complete a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form annually, disclosing any potential conflicts of interest.

Ongoing Disclosure: Covered Persons shall promptly disclose any new or potential conflicts of interest as they arise.

11.4 Recusal

Identification: If a conflict of interest is identified, the affected individual shall notify the Chair or Executive Director immediately.

Recusal: The affected individual shall recuse themselves from any discussion, decision, or vote related to the matter in which the conflict exists.

Documentation: The recusal shall be documented in the meeting minutes, including the nature of the conflict and the individual’s abstention from participation.

11.5 Review and Approval

Review: The Board of Directors shall review all disclosed conflicts of interest to determine whether they pose a significant risk to the organization.

Approval: Any transaction or decision involving a conflict of interest must be approved by a majority vote of the disinterested Board members.

11.6 Prohibited Activities

Self-Dealing: Covered Persons shall not engage in self-dealing or use their position for personal financial gain.

Gifts and Favors: Covered Persons shall not accept gifts, favors, or benefits that could influence their decisions or actions on behalf of the Collective.

11.7 Enforcement

Violations: Any violation of this policy shall be reported to the Board of Directors for investigation.

Consequences: Violations may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the Board or termination of employment or volunteer status.

11.8 Training and Education

Training: All Covered Persons shall receive training on this policy upon joining the Collective and periodically thereafter.

Acknowledgment: Covered Persons shall sign an acknowledgment form indicating that they have read, understood, and agree to comply with this policy.

11.9 Recordkeeping

Documentation: All disclosures, recusals, and related decisions shall be documented and maintained in the Collective’s records.

Transparency: The Conflict of Interest Policy and related records shall be made available to members, donors, and regulatory authorities as required.

Section 12: Non-Discrimination Policy

The New Mexico Care Collective is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for all members, staff, volunteers, and participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability,, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all aspects of the Collective’s operations, including but not limited to:

Membership eligibility and participation.

Employment practices and volunteer opportunities.

Access to programs, services, and resources.

Decision-making and governance.

The Collective actively works to eliminate barriers to inclusion and ensure equitable access and opportunities for all individuals, particularly those from historically marginalized communities. We celebrate diversity as a strength and are dedicated to creating a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute.

Section 13: Indemnification

13.1 Indemnification of Board Members

The New Mexico Care Collective shall indemnify and hold harmless each member of the Board of Directors against any and all claims, liabilities, expenses (including legal fees), judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement incurred in connection with their service to the Collective, provided that:

The Board member acted in good faith and in a manner they reasonably believed to be in the best interest of the Collective.

The Board member did not engage in willful misconduct, gross negligence, or a knowing violation of the law.

The indemnification does not exceed the limits permitted by New Mexico state law.

13.2 Limitation of Liability

Board members shall not be personally liable for the debts, obligations, or actions of the New Mexico Care Collective, except to the extent required by law. Liability for operational decisions, errors, or omissions shall rest solely with the Executive Director, who is responsible for the day-to-day management and implementation of the Collective’s activities.

13.3 Insurance

The Collective may purchase and maintain insurance to protect itself and its Board members, officers, and employees against liabilities arising out of their roles, to the fullest extent permitted by law.

13.4 Scope

This indemnification clause does not protect individuals from liability for actions outside the scope of their duties or for conduct that is fraudulent, criminal, or in violation of the Collective’s bylaws or policies.

While the Board of Directors provides oversight and strategic guidance, the Executive Director is responsible for the operational decisions and actions of the New Mexico Care Collective. Any errors, omissions, or liabilities arising from day-to-day operations shall be the responsibility of the Executive Director.

Section 14: Severability

14.1 Severability

If any provision of these bylaws is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. The Board of Directors shall have the authority to amend or replace any invalid provision with one that is valid and enforceable, provided the amendment aligns with the Collective’s mission and purpose.

Section 15: Subsidiary Entities and Cooperatives

15.1 Purpose

The New Mexico Care Collective may establish subsidiary entities, such as cooperatives or trusts, to further its mission and goals. These entities shall operate in alignment with the Collective’s values, bylaws, and applicable laws.

15.2 Formation and Governance

Approval: The formation of any subsidiary entity, including cooperatives or land trusts, must be approved by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors.

Legal Structure: Each entity shall be established as a separate legal entity, with its own governing documents, in compliance with state and federal laws.

Oversight: The Board of Directors shall retain oversight of all subsidiary entities, ensuring they operate in accordance with the Collective’s mission and policies.

15.3 Insurance Cooperative

Purpose: The Insurance Cooperative shall provide affordable, member-driven insurance solutions to the community, prioritizing accessibility and equity.

Governance: The Cooperative shall be governed by a board elected by its members, with at least one representative from the New Mexico Care Collective’s Board of Directors serving as a liaison.

Financial Independence: The Cooperative shall maintain its own financial records and operate as a self-sustaining entity, though it may receive initial support or funding from the Collective.

15.4 Land Trust

Purpose: The Land Trust shall acquire, hold, and manage land for the benefit of the community, ensuring affordable access to housing, agriculture, and other community needs.

Stewardship: The Trust shall be governed by a board of trustees, including representatives from the Collective and the community, to ensure responsible land use and long-term sustainability.

Non-Speculation: Land held by the Trust shall be protected from speculation and market-driven price increases, ensuring permanent affordability and community control.

15.5 Agricultural Cooperative

Purpose: The Agricultural Cooperative shall promote sustainable farming practices, food sovereignty, and equitable access to locally grown, nutritious food.

Governance: The Cooperative shall be governed by a board elected by its members, including farmers, consumers, and representatives from the Collective.

Operations: The Cooperative shall support member farmers through shared resources, fair pricing, and collective marketing, while ensuring environmentally responsible practices.

Community Benefits: A portion of the Cooperative’s profits shall be reinvested into community food security programs and educational initiatives.

15.6 Mining Cooperative

Purpose: The Mining Cooperative shall ensure ethical, sustainable, and community-focused extraction and use of natural resources, prioritizing environmental stewardship and fair labor practices.

Governance: The Cooperative shall be governed by a board elected by its members, including miners, community representatives, and experts in environmental sustainability.

Operations: The Cooperative shall adhere to strict environmental and safety standards, ensuring that mining activities do not harm the community or ecosystem.

Revenue Sharing: Profits from the Cooperative shall be reinvested into the community, supporting local development, education, and environmental restoration projects.

15.7 Financial and Legal Compliance

Separation of Assets: Each subsidiary entity shall maintain separate financial accounts and records, ensuring clear distinction from the Collective’s assets.

Reporting: Subsidiary entities shall provide regular reports to the Collective’s Board of Directors, including financial statements and updates on activities.

Legal Compliance: All entities shall comply with federal, state, and local laws, including filing necessary paperwork, maintaining tax-exempt status (if applicable), and adhering to regulatory requirements.

15.8 Dissolution of Subsidiary Entities

In the event that a subsidiary entity is dissolved, its remaining assets shall be distributed to the New Mexico Care Collective or another nonprofit organization with a similar mission, as determined by the Board of Directors and in compliance with applicable laws.