Dear NFARL Members,
As we move into 2026, our goal is to ensure the North Fulton Amateur Radio League remains a vibrant, efficient, and forward-looking organization. To support this, I am pleased to announce that after several months of diligent work, the Board of Directors has approved a proposed set of 2026 Bylaws to be put before the membership for a vote.
Official Notice of Vote
This email formally notifies you that I have called for a membership vote on proposed amendments to the NFARL Bylaws.
Vote Details:
- Date: February 17, 2026, at the club meeting
- Eligible Voters: Members in good standing as of February 17, 2026
- Question: Should the proposed 2026 Bylaws be adopted?
- Voting Options: Members attending in person or via Google Meet will be able to vote
Outcome:
- If approved: The proposed 2026 Bylaws will become the governing document for the club
- If rejected: The club will continue operating under the current Bylaws (NFARL Bylaws Rev 6.3b, May 18, 2021)
Why Are We Proposing These Changes?
Over the past two years, we found that our current bylaws—while well-intentioned—were often too restrictive. On several occasions, "hyper-specific" language prevented the Board from acting quickly on opportunities or resolving operational issues efficiently.
Furthermore, the world has changed. Our current rules didn't fully account for the digital tools we use daily. For example, we need to include the management of digital assets, ensuring our online presence and records are as secure and organized as our physical ones.
Summary of Key Changes
- Operational Flexibility: Shifted overly specific procedural "minutiae" into a separate Policy Manual, allowing the Bylaws to serve as a high-level governing framework.
- Modernized Roles: Updated officer descriptions—specifically the Secretary to include oversight of digital platforms and assets, and the Vice President now includes Activities duties.
- Virtual Integration: Formalized the use of internet-based tools for meetings, notifications, and voting.
- Streamlined Governance: Refined committee structures to allow for quicker response times to club needs.
Timeline of Actions
- January 16, 2026: Board of Directors approved the proposed draft.
- January 17, 2026: Proposed Bylaws delivered to the membership for review.
- February 17, 2026: Final membership vote.
Review the Documents
We want every member to feel confident in these changes. Please review the following documents before the vote:
Please use these materials to make an informed decision on your vote at the Tuesday, February 17, 2026 club meeting. Your attendance at this meeting is strongly encouraged.
If you have questions or would like to discuss the proposed changes, please feel free to reach out to me (n4wye@nfarl.org) or any member of the Board.
73,
Lee Johnson, N4WYE
President, North Fulton Amateur Radio League
