CreekSide Co-op E-news Nov. 7, 2010

Co-op Funding Update

The Finance Committee of the Board met Oct. 27 with representatives of The Reinvestment Fund's (TRF) Fresh Food Access Program (the links should take you to their website).TRF is a lender that provides funding for certain kinds of projects.The meeting was very positive, and TRF is now working with us to try and structure a financing package.These discussions are still preliminary, but so far we are very encouraged.TRF has a lot of experience in financing grocery stores, and they may have access to other governmental programs that would help us secure financing.      

Speaking of governmental programs, as you will recall, the USDA recently withdrew our qualification for a loan guaranty under their Community Facilities program.We are appealing that decision (with the help of pro bono counsel from Cozen O'Connor).We don't have any way to know how likely it is that our appeal will be successful, but if they reverse their decision and we become eligible, that would be an encouraging development.Whatever happens, additional funding sources are likely to  be required. 

The Co-op Board Wants and Needs YOU!

If you have the desire to be part of the effort to make CreekSide Co-op a reality, then please consider running for the Co-op Board.You must be a member and over 18 and be the only member of your household serving on the board. 

In order to place your name in nomination, please submit the following by November 11 to elections@creekside.coop ormail to PO Box 26773, Elkins Park, PA, 19027:

• Your name and biography, highlighting applicable experience.
• A position statement of no more than 750 words explaining reason for serving, and skills and insights to be provided
• A recent digital photo of the nominee (recommended but not required

Member Meeting Scheduled for
Thursday, November 18.

The next member meeting will take place from 7 - 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 18 at Congregation Kol Ami on High School Road.The member meeting will provide updates on a variety of issues of great importance to the members and to the future of the Co-op.Following the member meeting, there will be an opportunity to "meet and greet" the candidates currently running for the Co-op Board.

We expect to be answering many member questions during the meeting.To help assure that your question is answered, we are requesting that you send it, in advance, to questions@creekside.coop.Questions answered at the meeting will be posted to the CreekSide Co-op website following the member meeting.  See you there!