Code of Conduct for the Board of the OHTA

(Orignially adopted January 6, 2006; revised December 10, 2007)

• We conduct ourselves professionally

• We treat each other with respect and courtesy

• We try sincerely to understand diverse points of view

• We will not undermine the work of our fellow board members

• We are encouraged to ask questions and to express our opinions in the meeting on the business being discussed, but once we have agreed to a course of action, we will support it. What goes on in our meetings stays in our meetings (except to the extent that our discussions are reflected in the minutes. which are available on the OHTA website)

• If we agree to do something, we will do it. If we are unable to do this, we will speak up and say so.

THE MEETINGS

• When we need to make a decision, we will ensure that all available facts are considered. When someone brings forward an issue for resolution, that person will present all facts available. We will discuss for clarity and understanding, but unless it is urgent, the matter will not be finalized until the next meeting. This gives us each an opportunity to reflect and obtain additional information. If you are not at a meeting where something is presented requiring a decision, it is your job to get informed to register a responsible vote.

• We will structure the agenda so that it is consistent with the plan format, grouped by the 5 sections. Nuts and bolts will be at the end, so that people who are not directly involved or interested do not need to stay.

• We will stay on topic. If we go off topic, we'll use the parking lot method to get back on track. Any hand-out material reviewed or discussed at the meetings must be available and distributed ahead of time for the benefit of the conference call people. Conference call people will make sure that they look at the material they are sent.

• We'll review how this is working periodically and make improvements as we go.

• When you speak, identify who you are for the conference call people.

BETWEEN MEETINGS

• Group emails should be used to distribute information relevant to the whole board. Examples are: meeting preparation material, requests for agenda items, requests for general feedback, general interest information. They should not be used to express frustration or to state a point of view about what someone else should be doing or to debate policy direction. That type of communication should be directed specifically by email or phone, or at the monthly meeting.

• If a fellow board member is trying to contact you, please return their call or email. Don't leave the person hanging.

• If you are communicating on behalf of the OHTA in public forums, please exercise prudence. If there is any doubt, please contact the Chair or the President.