UUCB Governance

Our church is self-governing, in that authority and responsibility are vested in our membership, as with all UU congregations. That means we adopt our own bylaws, elect our own officers, and approve our own budget.

We are, however, active members of the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations (UUA) and UUA's regional Mountain Desert District, and enjoy access to the many resources they provide.

All of our members are encouraged to take an active part in church activities that determine how we operate. We value the democratic process and UUCB is governed accordingly. There are two scheduled congregational meetings each year during which church business is conducted. Special congregational meetings can be called, as needed. All members who have made a contribution of note to UUCB in the past year in good standing are eligible to vote, if they have signed the Membership Book more than 30 days prior to the meeting.

UUCB is governed by a Board of Trustees, which has fiscal responsibility for and operating control over church affairs. Trustees are elected for three-year terms. Other elected officers are President, Moderator, Clerk, and a Leadership Development Committee (formerly called the Nominating Committee). The Treasurer and Secretary of the Board are appointed positions.

UUCB members also carry out the work of the church through various councils and committees. In 2009, these groups were organized under an Administrative Council and a Congregational Life Council. For more information, read an overview of the UUCB organizational structure or view a detailed UUCB organizational chart showing how these groups report back to the congregation.

In addition, our paid staff members are, of course, vital to running the church.

Board of Trustees*

President: David Hughes (2011)
Past President: Ray Knudson (2010)
President Elect: Jean LaDue (2012)
Other Trustees: Nora Barth (2012), George Brandon (2010), Sarah Solter (2011), Heidi Todd (2011)
*The year when each 3-year term expires is noted in parentheses

Other Elected Officers and Leaders

Clerk of the Congregation: Becky Palmer (2010)
Moderator of the Congregation: Karen Morgan (2011)
Leadership Development Committee: Lois Anderson (2010), Nancy Lee (2010), LizEllen Sawhill (2010), Eileen Tobin (2010), Hayden Williamson (2011)

Appointed Officers

Treasurer: Eileen Sammells
Secretary: Caitlin Moore