For instance, in NJ we are required to conduct two open board meetings a year. In addition, we are required to have four other meetings a year. These other meetings are closed board workshops wherein we do not vote on any material items. Yes a “slight of hand”. Why, because at the semi-annual meetings we vote to authorize the board to enter into contracts, to spend the capital reserves on planned programs, etc.

Now back to the open shareholder meetings. Open does NOT mean the shareholders participate in the meeting. To the contrary, the shareholders are spectators during the 9 to 21 minutes required to conduct the business. Shareholders are not permitted to ask questions or make comments during the open board meetings.

As noted in the other posting, after the “open” meeting is closed, then we allow a period of questions and answers. Typically, a shareholder is limited to one question so that all may have a voice. See:
http://disc.yourwebapps.com/discussion.cgi?disc=94379;article=10930;title=Habitat%27s%20Board%20Talk

Yes there always a cabal of unfounded dissents and the challenge is to not allow the dissidents to monopolize the meeting and risk losing the good people who recognize the value brought to the co-op by the board members and their activities.