CWCAC committee reviews proposed by-law changes, including Executive Director evaluation timing

The Central Wisconsin Community Action Council Ad Hoc Committee reviewed proposed revisions to the agency’s by‑laws at a meeting in Wisconsin Dells on Jan. 9, 2026. Committee members discussed changes to multiple sections that address hiring, oversight and evaluation of the Executive Director and Associate Director(s).

The committee reviewed proposed language for By‑Law 4.01 that would formalize that the Board of Directors hires an Executive Director/Associate Director(s) based on relevant experience and leadership, that those positions report directly to the board and serve as non‑voting, ex‑officio members of the Board of Directors. The draft language also states that the Executive Director’s and Associate Director(s)’ annual performance evaluation and compensation review process will begin in October and be implemented on Jan. 1 of the following year.

Committee members also reviewed proposed By‑Law 4.05, which would hold the Executive Director/Associate Director(s) responsible for compliance with conditions of the corporation’s contracts, and By‑Law 4.06, which would authorize the president and the Executive, Personnel, Finance & Audit (EPF&A) Committee to establish ad hoc committees and allow board members, employees or outside individuals to serve on them.

Members discussed a detailed draft of By‑Law 5.03 that would establish the EPF&A Committee and assign it responsibilities including monitoring staff changes; reviewing and approving job descriptions, salary and compensation plans; periodically reviewing the Personnel Policy Manual and By‑Laws; monitoring the agency’s budget, revenues and expenditures; reviewing auditor selection, audit results and Form 990; and recommending the annual budget and any budget changes to the board.

Committee members agreed the Associate Directors should be told the board has confidence and trust in their leadership and that they have latitude to propose solutions and lead operational efforts. The committee also discussed asking Associate Directors to provide reasonable advance notice if they choose to rescind the Associate Director appointment and return to their prior position, or if they plan to leave the agency, so the board can plan next steps.

Donna Maly called the meeting to order and noted that five members were present: Dave Singer (via Zoom), Donna Maly, Charlie Krupa, Liz Miller and Donna Auchue; Laura Reichoff and Ross Curry were excused. The committee asked members to continue reviewing the draft by‑law language and to inform Donna Maly of suggested changes; Maly will inform Donna Lynch when the revisions are ready to be forwarded to the full board, possibly at its February meeting. The meeting then adjourned.

The review was procedural; no formal vote on any by‑law language was recorded during the Ad Hoc Committee meeting.