Next GM: Thursday March 27, 2008 12:30pm

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GESSA (V Session, 2007) General Meeting
Minutes

Date: November 13, 2007
Time: 5:45 pm to 7:50 pm

Location: Health, Nursing & Environmental Studies Building: Room 141

Chaired By: Noman Khalid-Khan

GESSA Executive Committee (EC) Officers Present: Noman Khalid-Khan (VP Finance & Treasurer), Fady Hanna (Internal Coordinator/Secretary), Julian Rodriguez (Communications External), Joseph Schwarz (Social Coordinator), and Tanya Sheikh (Advocacy Officer)

Absent: Amit Lahiri (Chair) and Kadambini Pandey (Research and Travel Fund Officer)

Minutes Recorded by: Fady Hanna

In Quorum: 18 (as verified by GM attendance list sheets)

1) GESSA’s 5th Session 2007 GM called to order around 6:00 pm

2) Motion A: To Adopt Agenda for Session V of November 13th, 2007 and minutes from Session IV of GESSA’s GM 2007 held on September 27, 2007.

Motion moved by Noman Khalid-Khan and Seconded by Ed Crummey
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

3) In Reference to: Agenda Item 3
Brief updates from the Finance Subcommittee regarding;

• GESSA Scholarship entitled “GESSA 2007 Scholarship”. (the requirements and eligibility criteria)
• GESSA managed to get new couches for free to be put in the FES lounge on the second floor of the HNES building.
• GESSA RTF Fund: Noman mentioned that the review of RTF applications is done and funds have been allocated to the granted students.

4) In Reference to: Agenda Item 4
EC Elections: Information session and selection of a “Chief Returning Officer” (CRO). Noman explained the process of GESSA election in order to elect a new Executive Committee to serve for GESSA 2008/2009. This necessitates the election of a Chief Returning Officer.

Motion B: To elect a Chief Returning Officer (CRO) pursuant to Article 9: Elections and Referenda (Section 1 Clauses a, b, c, d, e, f, and g) of GESSA’s Constitution, and in conjunction with Regulation E (Rules and Regulations for GESSA Elections for Executive Committee) of GESSA Constitution.

Marc Piccinato nominates himself to be the Chief Returning Officer. Marc described his experience as he served before as a CRO in a co-op organization. In addition, Marc’s academic interest concerned about participatory approaches also raises his suitability for this position.

Motion moved by Noman Khalid-Khan
Seconded by Fady Hanna
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

The Executive Committee will meet with Marc to inform him about the election’s procedures

5) In Reference to: Agenda Item 5
Noman gave a brief description about the EDG (Environmental Discussion Group) first seminar which was held in late October 2007.

6) ‘Greening the HNES Building’ Fady asked if any of the present members has attended the 3rd meeting of “Greening the HNES Building”. Nadeem Anwar responded and explained that the solar panel project which is one of the initiatives within the broader project of ‘Greening the HNES’ has been initiated and some interested students have met for couple of times to organize their endeavours. Also Anwar explained that he has launched a website http://www.ecoyorku.ca/home in which students will find different sections pertinent to the proposed initiatives. These initiatives range between solar panels, living wall, green roof, and architecture and design. Still more collaboration is required in order to coordinate the old proposed GESSA Living Wall within this project. Anwar mentioned that a 3rd meeting will be held at 215 Spadina Ave. in Downtown Toronto on Dec 5th, 2007 starting at 6:00 pm.

7) Updates on FES internal and external Committees;
Julian, the external coordinator clarified that there is a vacant position on the FES Student Senator. Valerie Kitchell an MES student was the only student to show interest and nominates herself for the position.
Motion C: To elect Valerie Kitchell as FES Student representative on the Senate Caucus.
Moved by Julian
Seconded by Fady
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

Motion D: To confirm Nicole Lulham as the GESSA representative on the main Faculty Appointment Advisory Committee. Nicole sits also on the Urban Ecology and Environmental Planning Sub-committee.

This motion’s purpose was to correct a mistake that has occurred in GESSA General Meeting IV Session where 3 members were elected to sit on the 3 positions of the Faculty Appointment Advisory Committee main position besides its 2 subcommittee’s positions. According to GESSA Constitution, these 3 positions should be occupied by only 2 members whereas one of the reps who sit on the subcommittees occupies the main FAAC position as well.

Move by Julian Rodriguez
Seconded by D’Arcy Butler
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

Nicole then gave a brief update on the FAAC which she said has met twice. Nicole said that there are numerous applicants for the teaching position of Urban Ecology and Environmental Planning. There are 37 candidates, though it’s not clear yet if the Faculty will hire anyone.

Updates on CUPE 3903; Meagan Cameroon explained that there is work to rule action. Also pertinent to the same subject Kasim Tirmizey GESSA rep on CUPE has sent a message to the Secretary and the External coordinator explaining this work to rule as well.

Basically, at the October 31st General Membership Meeting of CUPE 3903, the membership decided that as of November 19th all members would engage in a ‘work-to-rule’ labor action in response to the currently proposed “Times to Completion” document (2007), the cuts to and attempted cancellation of the summer and fall/winter needs based bursary, which is related to the restructuring of funding packages resulting in numerous students no longer being included under the CUPE 3903 CA’s (Collective Agreement) with their antecedent benefits and right, and the continued loss of Unit 2 tutor and teaching assistant positions. This ‘work-to-rule’ campaign will be a graduated series of actions. The first approved action in this work to rule is to have all Unit 1 and 2 members refuse to use e-mail communication. All Unit 1 and 2 members have, within their CA (please refer to 10.05.1 (i) for the exact wording), the right to refuse to use email, and are not required to provide another personalized contact (such as a phone number) for your immediate supervisor or your students.

Updates on Planning Program’s Subcommittee;
Maggie Chien GESSA representative on the Planning Program’s Subcommittee explained that there was a talk about the ambiguity of the “Non-Planning courses” in the list of required courses for MES students in the Planning stream. She mentioned that there was a talk about reducing these courses to 1 or 2 instead of 3. Also, Maggie said that the Faculty seeks to hire a Transportation Planner to teach a course on Transportation Planning. There is also a talk about hiring a Planner Practitioner each year to teach a regular course. A question: will he/she act as a mentor for students; Maggie said that she doubts and that he/she will be only a Faculty Professor most likely.

Updates on the Decanal Research;
Noman said that Rick Fehr, GESSA rep on the Decanal Search informed him that he would like to hold an open house meeting in which students can raise their wishes and expectations regarding the new Dean. Date to be determined.

Discussion about the purchase of a foosball table to be located in room 207 HNES Building (the graduate lounge). Joe, the social coordinator explained that GESSA has some money that enables it to purchase this table. As GESSA will receive free couches, there is an excess in the allocated money for the ‘Furniture’ section in the budget.

Motion E: to authorize the purchase of a foosball table,
Moved by Joe
Seconded by Tanya
Vote count: 12 in favour
2 Against
2 Abstain
Motion passed by majority of votes

9) Discussion regarding MES grading system and the impact of Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS) new rules re its grade evaluation criteria. The discussion was about the endorsement of some letters to be sent to;
• Dean Barbara Rahder, Dean of FES
• Sheila Embleton, York University Vice-President Academic and
• OGS, Ontario Graduate Scholarship program.

One of the present members asked to hold the discussion of this matter and the review of the letters in camera, meaning without being recorded in the minutes.
It has been agreed unanimously to hold this discussion in camera.

The meeting returned to its open house procedures. There was an agreement to endorse the letters with some modifications in the wording. A motion was passed and reads as follows;

Motion F:
• To endorse the letter reviewed by the present members of GESSA to be sent to Dean Barbara with modifications in the wording as deemed necessary.
• To endorse the letter reviewed by the present members of GESSA to be sent to Sheila Embleton, York University Vice-President Academic, with modifications in the wording as deemed necessary; and
• To endorse the letter reviewed by the present members of GESSA to be sent to OGS with modifications in the wording as deemed necessary.

Motion moved by Secretary Fady Hanna
Seconded by Meagan Cameroon
Vote count: 13 in favour
3 Against
2 Abstain
Motion passed by majority of votes.

10) Motion G: Adjournment Session V of GESSA’s 2007 GM.
Moved by Noman and Seconded by Tanya Sheikh
Motion passed unanimously

The following GESSA Officers and Staff (at least two) attest and verify, to the best of their recollection, that the minutes of these proceedings represent the proceedings of the meeting recorded above:

Signature of Recorder: ____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of Secretary:____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of an Officer:____________________ Name: __________________

GESSA (V Session, 2007) General Meeting
AGENDA
Meeting of November 13, 2007
5:45 pm / 17:45
Room 141 HNES

1) Call to Order

2) Motion A: To Adopt Agenda for Session V of November 13th, 2007 and minutes from Session IV of GESSA’s GM 2007 held on September 27, 2007.

3) GESSA Executive Committee (EC) introductions and Remarks:
Introduction: Finance Committee. Brief updates from the Finance Subcommittee regarding;

• GESSA Scholarship entitled “GESSA 2007 Scholarship”. (the requirements and eligibility criteria)
• GESSA MES lounge updates re furniture (new couches for FES lounge on the second floor)

EC Elections: Information session and selection of a “Chief Returning Officer” (CRO). GESSA will have an election at the end of November, beginning of December 2007, in order to elect a new Executive Committee to serve for GESSA 2008/2009. Details as follows;

4) Motion B: To elect a Chief Returning Officer (CRO)

Pursuant to Article 9: Elections and Referenda (Section 1 Clauses a, b, c, d, e, f, and g) of GESSA’s Constitution, and in conjunction with Regulation E (Regulation E: Rules and Regulations for GESSA Elections for Executive Committee) of GESSA Constitution which reads as follows:

“1. Nomination

a) A Chief Returning Officer (CRO) for the Election shall be elected in a General Meeting (GM) a reasonable time prior to the elections.

b) The CRO in consultation with the EC shall determine the commencement dates for the Election only. The nomination and Campaigning period shall each at least be a week in duration

b’) A Call for nominations will be sent out by the Chief Returning Officer (CRO) on the official FES listserve, detailing:
-The term of the position that shall last till (until December 31, of every Year) except the term of V.P Finance and Treasurer for which the term expires on the last day of April the following year.
-The call shall explicitly detail the duties and responsibilities for each position

b’’) Nominations must be e-mailed to the CRO no later than the date prescribed.

c) In the event only 1 person is nominated for a position, that position is acclaimed.

d) In the event 2 or more people are nominated, the CRO will:
Contact nominees and clearly explain the election process
Forward required information to the Centre for Student Community & Leadership Development (SC&LD) for processing to produce e-vote setup.

2. Campaign
a) Nominees will campaign only during the prescribed period. Any campaigning before or after the official dates may result in disqualification.

b) Postering is allowed within FES building only as only FES students are eligible to vote.

c) Nominees are encouraged to send at least 1 e-mail introducing themselves and their platforms on the MES_ALT listserve. Excessive e-mailing through the listserve for the purpose of campaigning is not allowed. All campaign literature must be respectful and purposeful attacks on character are not permitted.

d) Nominees can set up posters in the FES building only if they choose and are permitted to campaign through their own websites and networks.

3. Voting
a) There will be a 5 day on-line voting period administered by the Centre for Student Community & Leadership Development (http://www.yorku.ca/scld/).
b) CRO will send an e-mail on the official FES listserve officially opening and closing the voting period.
c) Only currently registered MES students are eligible to vote.
d) Results will be tabulated by SC&LD and sent to the CRO.
e) CRO will contact GESSA executive and candidates and inform them of the results.
f) If there are no concerns, CRO will announce the results to the student body.

4. General
a) Any concerns should be addressed to the CRO.
b) Violation of these rules could result in the candidate being disqualified from the election.

General Info;

Article 9: Elections and Referenda of GESSA Constitution states that;

1. The elections shall be administered according to the following regulations:

a) An election to determine the Officers for GESSA shall be held during the month of November each year.
b) The election will be conducted by the Returning Officer, who is elected by the GM but may not run for office.
c) The Returning Officer shall solicit nominations for the Officers of GESSA.
d) The Returning Officer shall call for nominations at least 2 weeks prior to the first day of the election.
e) Nominations shall close a week prior to the first day of the election.
f) No candidate may accept nomination for more than one office in any one election.
g) If only one person is nominated for a particular position that person shall be elected by acclamation.
h) Any other necessary regulations and the polling procedure shall be determined by the GM.

Agenda Items (Cont.)

5) Discussion: Updates of the “Environmental Discussion Group” (EDG).

6) Discussion about the GESSA Living Wall Project in HNES and how to streamline this initiative with the broader one “Greening the HNES Building”
Note: the launch of the website: http://www.ecoyorku.ca/home

7) Discussion about FES Student Senators – Election and confirmation of a new FES representative for York Senate, in accordance with Regulation C.

Updates FES Committees and Councils – Confirmation of FAAC (main) rep;

a) Motion C: To confirm, Nicole Lulham to be the FES/GESSA representative for the Faculty Appointments Advisory Committee (Main) in accordance with Regulation C. (Please refer to the minutes of the GM – Sept 27, 2007 for the reasoning to confirm this position)

b) Updates from FES/GESSA representatives in Internal and External Committees and Councils, in accordance with Regulation C.

- FES Decanal Search Committee

Internal:
- Faculty Council
- Committee of Instruction
- Graduate Curriculum Sub-Committee
- Planning Program Sub-Committee
- Tenure and Promotions Committee
- Faculty Appointments Advisory Committee
– Urban Ecologies and Environmental Planning Subcommittee
– Applied Ecology Subcommittee
- Research and Awards Committee
- Appeals Committee

External:
- YUGSA Council
- FGS Council
- CUPE 3903 Unit 3 Shop Steward
- FES Student Senator

9) Discussion about the possibility of purchasing a foosball table

10) “Other Business” or “New Business”.

11) Motion D: To adjourn Session V of GESSA’s 2007 GM.

Prepared by Fady Hanna
Internal Secretary

GESSA (IV Session, 2007) General Meeting

Minutes
Meeting of September 27, 2007
Time: 5:45 pm to 7:15 pm

Location: Health, Nursing & Environmental Studies Building: Room 141

Chaired By: Amit Lahiri

GESSA Executive Committee (EC) Officers Present: Amit Lahiri (Chair), Noman Khalid-Khan (VP Finance & Treasurer), Fady Hanna (Internal Coordinator/Secretary), Julian Rodriguez (Communications External), Joseph Schwarz (Social Coordinator), and Tanya Sheikh (Advocacy Officer)

Absent: Kadambini Pandey (Research and Travel Fund Officer)

Minutes Recorded by: Fady Hanna

In Quorum: 33 (as verified by GM attendance list sheets)

1) GESSA’s 4th Session 2007 GM called to order.

Welcome to 1st year students and returning 2nd year students.

2) Motion to adopt Agenda items
Motion moved by Amit Lahiri and Seconded by Tanya Sheikh
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

Although Meagan Cameroun made a remark that there were not enough minutes for the last General meeting (3rd session), some of the present members were in the meeting and approve it.
Motion moved by Noman Khalid Khan and Seconded by Julian Rodriguez
Vote Count: 27 in favour
5 Abstain
1 Against
Motion passed by majority of votes

3) In Reference to: Agenda Item 3
Brief updates from the EC of GESSA regarding GESSA projects & initiatives during summer.
• New GESSA Scholarship: Gessa has a new scholarship that will be available for FES graduate students. Details such as its amount, its requirements and eligibility will be ready soon.

• GESSA RTF FUND: Noman mentioned that the RTF applications deadline for the September cycle was extended till October 12th, 2007.

• GESSA Operating (Organizations) & Organizational/ Individual Project and Event Funding: Amit elaborated on the various organizations and student-led groups that GESSA support and fund. Example such as Maloca Garden was mentioned. Amit encouraged members to join these organizations and to further form other groups as funds are available for creative initiatives
• Update from GSA (former YUGSA) and GESSA agreement negotiations: Amit asked Joe to clarify the agreement that GESSA has in place with GSA (Graduate Student Association). Joe who represents GESSA on the GSA discussed that it’s time for the agreement review. He will make sure that we keep the same agreement with them as it well serves the FES graduate students community. Updates will follow and will be posted on GESSA website.
• MES lounge updates (microwave and furniture): Noman said that a microwave will be placed in MES lounge but GESSA is waiting till it figures out best way to secure it.
A question from a member (1st year MES) about the location of the MES lounge, Noman clarified that it’s in room 207 on the second floor. He mentioned the room code and asked all members to keep it private to all graduate students only.

4) In Reference to: Agenda Item 4
Amit explained the procedures for GESSA FES Committee/ Sub-committee and External York University Body Representatives nominations.
Motion B : Pursuant to (Article 5 Section 2 Clauses E, F and G of) GESSA’s Constitution, and in conjunction with Regulation C of GESSA, the chair of GESSA herewith closes the nomination period for all GESSA FES Committee/ Sub-committee and External York University Body Representatives positions, after having confirmed the existence of any new candidates. Upon such confirmation the election, confirmation or endorsement of all positions shall be conducted by the chair in the following order:

Julian started to name the present candidates for the various positions starting with Internal FES Committees and Subcommittees:

1. Faculty of Environmental Studies Council
The following candidates nominate themselves to represent GESSA on the Faculty Council:
Noman Khalid-Khan, Joseph Schwarz, Fady Hanna, Lauralyn Johnston, Ganjin Davies
Abbe Edelson, Andrew Micak, Leslie Luxemburger, Nadeem Anwar, Munazza Maqbool, Tanya Sheikh, and Lily Riahi
Motion to close nominations for these positions moved by Amit Lahiri
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

2. Planning Program’s Subcommittee
Katrina Guy made the notice that she nominated herself for this position and she sent her request to Julian who confirmed that.
Julian then clarified that there are 2 nominees for this position: Maggie Chien and Katrina Guy, therefore an election should take place in order to choose one of them. Amit asked both of them, in a minute and half, to explain their qualifications, as well as why the members should elect one of them be their representative on the Planning Subcommittee.
Katrina Guy; is a 2nd year MES in the planning stream, focusing on heritage and Archeological planning as well as Resource Management. Her research work is interested to examine the relation between such planning aspects and their relation to social aspects. Also, Katrina is interested about environmental conservation in urban settings and she tries to study that in a holistic way. She feels that being in 2nd year gives her the experience required to best represent all graduate students. Also she feels that being focusing on archeological planning as a different area of planning other than land use or transportation planning will make her unbiased to any specific groups of planners but further to all planning students.
Maggie Chien; is a first year MES student and has been accepted into the joint LLB/MES program. She has Bachelors degree in Urban Planning and a Diploma in Environmental Assessment from University of Waterloo. Maggie has been a student member of OPPI for the past 4 years. Some of her relevant work experience includes policy work at the Ministry of Environment (for 2 consecutive summers) and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and Davies Howe Partners (a law firm specializing in land use matters). She believes that her academic and employment experience would serve the Planning Programs Sub-Committee very well.

After presenting themselves, Amit asked both to leave the room so the present members can elect one of them.
The results were: Katrina Guy: 10 votes
Maggie Chien: 15 votes
Maggie Chien was elected as GESSA representative on Planning Program’s Subcommittee

3. Research and Awards Committee
Lily Riahi nominated herself for the position. Marta Berbes withdrew in Lily’s favour.
Lily Riahi was acclaimed to represent GESSA on the Research and Awards Committee

4. Appeals Committee
Maggie Chien was acclaimed to represent GESSA on the Appeals Committee (uncontested)

5. Faculty Appointment Advisory Committee. Pending
This Committee has 2 subcommittees, but 3 positions to be filled by GESSA members as explained below;

There is one position general, representing GESSA on the Committee itself, and another two subcommittees.
o Urban Ecology and Environmental Planning
o Applied Ecology
GESSA representative on the general position must be one of the two reps sitting on the subcommittees.

The results were as follows;

o Urban Ecology and Environmental Planning
Emily Sinclair (not present) was the only nominee for this position, but in the meeting Nicole Lulham nominated herself. Julian gave the Amit Emily’s profile which she had sent to Julian before the meeting.
Lauralyn Johnston made a remark that it’s more appropriate that Nicole should has the chance to present herself first and then Emily’s profile could be read. In that sense, Nicole has the privilege to present herself freely without feeling that she has to differentiate herself.
All in favour for such opinion, Nicole starts explaining her interests; Interested in urban design and urban growth centres Nicole, in particular, is focusing on examining best methods to manage population growth using urban ecology approaches. She is also interested in studying best practices for increasing people’s awareness for the environment and its conservation.
Subsequently, Amit read Emily’s profile:
Emily is starting her second year in MES. She is in the planning stream, with a focus on planning for food and agriculture. Last year, she participated in GESSA activities in two capacities: she was a GESSA delegate on Faculty Council and was the Chief Electoral Officer for the recent GESSA election. She firmly believes in the representation of students’ ideas and concerns in faculty decision-making, in particular when hiring new instructors. For this reason, she would like to sit on the Faculty Appointment Advisory Committee.
Emily’s research and academic interests relate to the application of planning research to the study of food systems. In addition to completing course work last year, she spent the summer at a planning firm as a field experience placement. This year, she will be volunteering at a councilor’s office to gain experience with the relationship between planning and politics. She believes that in addition to representing student interests on the Faculty Appointment Advisory Committee, this position will help her gain a greater understanding of the faculty’s decision-making process. This learning experience is very important to her, as is the commitment to advancing student perspectives about learning at FES.

Amit asked Nicole Lulham to step outside the room so the present members can elect one of the 2 nominees.

The results were: Emily Sinclair: 9 votes
Nicole Lulham: 17 votes
Abstain: 7

Final Result: Nicole Lulham was elected to represent GESSA on the Urban Ecology and Environmental Planning Subcommittee of the Faculty Appointments Advisory Committee.

o Applied Ecology
Karen Petkau was acclaimed to represent GESSA on the Applied Ecology Subcommittee (uncontested)

6. Committee of Instruction
Mimi Lau was acclaimed on this committee (uncontested)

7. Tenure and Promotions Committee
Lauralyn Johnston was acclaimed on this committee (uncontested)

8. Graduate Curriculum Sub-Committee
Marta Berbes nominated herself and she was acclaimed (uncontested)

Julian noted that the MES/LLB Program Subcommittee is inactive and urge students in this program to try to contact Prof. Peter Victor as he is the coordinator of such Subcommittee in order to reactivate it. (1 MES/LLB representative is required)

External Councils and Committees:

• YUGSA Council
• Faculty of Graduate Studies Council
• CUPE 3903 UNIT 3 SHOP STEWARD
• York Senate
• Decanal Search Committee

1. YUGSA Council; (3 positions, 1 of them is an ex-officio)
Joe Schwarz holds GESSA ex-officio position (elected by GESSA Executive Committee)
2 nominees: Andrew Micak and Nadeem Anwar
Andrew Micak and Nadeem Anwar were acclaimed to represent GESSA on YUGSA Council (uncontested)

Joe mentioned that there are vacant positions on YUGSA Subcommittee and he urges students to run for them. Joe will send a list of vacant positions on GESSA and MES- ALT listserves

2. CUPE 3903 UNIT 3 SHOP STEWARD
Kasim Tirmizey is acclaimed to represent GESSA on this position

Joe asked if there is a position about Unit 1 for TA. Julian will review this issue.

3. Faculty of Graduate Studies Council
2 positions; 1 of them is ex-officio GESSA chair
There was only 1 nominee for the 2nd position which is Teresa Abbruzzese (PhD candidate)
Teresa Abbruzzese (not present) was acclaimed to this position (uncontested)

4. York Senate
Julian explains that the student representing GESSA in this position serves for 2 successive years unless he/she withdraws from such position.
GESSA has a current representative who is Bruce Erickson

5. Decanal Search Committee
Amit explains to present members that York University President Shoukri has asked Vice-president Sheila Embleton to chair the search committee in order to proceed with the process to select a new Dean at FES. The Faculty Council have been asked to elect three faculty members, one graduate student, one undergraduate student and one staff member to represent the FES Decanal search committee.

Rick Fehr (PhD Candidate) is the only nominee for this position.
Lauralyn Johnston asked Rick a question about his areas of interest. Rick research work focuses on environmental history trying to study it from an indigenous perspective. Also he focuses on environmental literature related to this subject.
Noman asked Rick to consult with MES and not only PhD students so the representation would be effective and would reflect all FES graduate students
Rick Fehr was acclaimed to be GESSA representative in the FES Decanal Search Committee

5) In Reference to Agenda Item 5, Fady asked Amit to call the elected nominees to sign the Oath as per clause (n) of Regulation C of GESSA

Oath: I, ____________ solemnly swear that I will abide, adhere and carry out my duties, as a representative of GESSA, to the best of my abilities in representing the graduate students at the Faculty of Environmental Studies, as directed, instructed and charged by the GM and as set out in Regulation C and the constitution of GESSA.”

After signing the Oath and collected by the Secretary, many people left.
Number present: 25 members
Still on Quorum

Chair called for order

6) In Reference to Agenda Item 6, the Chair asked for Motion C: To confirm active members of GESSA’s Finance Committee and GESSA’s Social Committee. These members were inducted after the 2nd session of GESSA’s GM 2007, wherein the order for creation of these committees originated. The following members of Finance and Social subcommittee are to be confirmed:

GESSA Finance Committee (FC)GESSA Social committee (SC)
Noman Khalid-Khan (Chair) Joseph Schwarz (Chair)

Ferenaz Raheem Aviva Pelt
Aviva Pelt Tanya Sheikh
Ayesha Ahmed Nicole Richards
Katrina Guy Mike Lipkus
Leslie Luxemburger Michelle Gorman

All these members were confirmed
Motion by Noman and Seconded by Eric Gallant
Motion passed unanimous

7) In Reference to Agenda Item 7, Motion D by Amit: To endorse the creation of a new sub-committee of GESSA named the “Environmental Discussion Group” (EDG), in accordance with Regulation B of GESSA and the endorsement and confirmation of its initial members.
The EDG is a new initiative from GESSA to lead students’ discussion on core Environmental Themes as means of student engagement, participation and vocalization of critical issues; discuss the specific aspects of the project to be proposed to Dean”
Moved by Amit and Seconded by Pasco Merphy
Motion passed unanimous

In Reference to Agenda Item 8, Tanya discussed the GESSA Living Wall Project in HNES Lobby. If approved by the Faculty, there is an opportunity for students to join the Living Wall subcommittee. The Living Wall to be posed in the MES lounge in front of OSAS on the brick wall where there is a “Flat Screen”. Updates will be regularly posted on FES and GESSA listserves later in October.

9) “Other Business” or “New Business”.
Eric Gallant asked to table a Motion that GESSA endorse the promotion of October 10th referendum on the “MMP” voting system for the Coming Provincial Election. The MMP is the Mixed Member Proportional Voting System

Moved by Eric Gallant and Seconded by Noman
In Favour: 19
Abstain: 2
Against: 3
Motion passed by Majority

10) Motion E: Adjournment Session IV of GESSA’s 2007 GM.
Moved by Amit and Seconded by Andrew Micak
Motion passed unanimously

The following GESSA Officers and Staff (at least two) attest and verify, to the best of their recollection, that the minutes of these proceedings represent the proceedings of the meeting recorded above:

Signature of Recorder: ____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of Secretary:____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of an Officer:____________________ Name: __________________

GESSA (IV Session, 2007) General Meeting

AGENDA
Meeting of September 27, 2007
5:45 pm / 17:45
Room 141 HNES

1) Call to Order: 5:50pm /17:50.

2) Motion A: To Adopt Agenda for Session IV September 27th, 2007 and minutes from Session III of GESSA’s GM 2007 held on May 17, 2007.

3) GESSA Executive Committee (EC) introductions and Remarks:
Introductions: Social, and Finance Committees.
Welcome to 1st year students and returning 2nd year students. Brief updates from the EC of GESSA regarding GESSA projects & initiatives during summer.
• New GESSA Scholarship
• GESSA RTF FUND
• GESSA Operating (Organizations) & Organizational/ Individual Project and Event Funding
• Update from YUGSA and GESSA agreement negotiations.
• GESSA MES lounge updates (microwave and furniture)

4) Motion B : Pursuant to (Article 5 Section 2 Clauses E, F and G of) GESSA’s Constitution, and in conjunction with Regulation C of GESSA, the chair of GESSA herewith closes the nomination period for all GESSA FES Committee/ Sub-committee and External York University Body Representatives positions, after having confirmed the existence of any new candidates. Upon such confirmation the election, confirmation or endorsement of all positions shall be conducted by the chair in the following order:

(Appendix A for nominees as well as vacant positions, also Appendix B for available Candidate Profiles)

Internal FES Committees and Subcommittees:
• Committee of Instruction
• Faculty of Environmental Studies Council
• Tenure and Promotions Committee
• Graduate Curriculum Sub-Committee
• Planning Program’s Sub-committee
• Research and Awards Committee
• Faculty Appointment Advisory Committee.
o Urban Ecology and Environmental Planning [Sub-committee]
o Applied Ecology [Sub-committee]
• Appeals Committee

External Councils and Committees:
• Decanal Search Committee
• YUGSA Council
• Faculty of Graduate Studies Council
• CUPE 3903 UNIT 3 SHOP STEWARD
• York Senate

5) Elected representatives to sign or affirm Oath as per clause (n) of Regulation C of GESSA and register with secretary and the list serve for GESSA Reps:

Oath: I, ____________ solemnly swear that I will abide, adhere and carry out my duties, as a representative of GESSA, to the best of my abilities in representing the graduate students at the Faculty of Environmental Studies, as directed, instructed and charged by the GM and as set out in Regulation C and the constitution of GESSA.”

6) Motion C: For the GM to confirm active members of GESSA’s Finance Committee and GESSA’s Social Committee. These members were inducted after the 2nd session of GESSA’s GM 2007, wherein the order for creation of these committees originated. The following members of Finance and Social subcommittee are to be confirmed:

GESSA Finance Committee (FC)
Noman Khalid-Khan (Chair)

Ferenaz Raheem
Aviva Pelt
Ayesha Ahmed
Katrina Guy
Leslie Luxemburger

GESSA Social committee (SC)
Joseph Schwarz (Chair)

Aviva Pelt
Tanya Sheikh
Nicole Richards
Mike Lipkus
Michelle Gorman

6) Motion D: For the GM to endorse and order the creation of a new sub-committee of GESSA named the “Environmental Discussion Group” (EDG), in accordance with Regulation B of GESSA and the endorsement and confirmation of its initial members.
“A new initiative from GESSA to lead students’ discussion on core Environmental Themes as means of student engagement, participation and vocalization of critical issues; discuss the specific aspects of the project to be proposed to Dean”

7) Discussion about the GESSA Living Wall Project in HNES Lobby. (Tanya)
If approved by the Faculty, there is an opportunity for students to join the Living Wall subcommittee. Updates will be regularly posted on FES and GESSA listserves later in October.

“Other Business” or “New Business”.

9) Motion E: Adjournment Session IV of GESSA’s 2007 GM.

GESSA Executive Committee 2007

GESSA Speaker / Chairperson 2007: Amit Lahiri – chair@GESSA.CA
VP Finance & (Treasurer) Officer 2007-May 2008: Noman Khalid-Khan – finance@GESSA.CA
Research and Travel Fund Officer 2007: Kadambini Pandey – RTF@GESSA.CA
External Communications Officer 2007: Julian Rodriguez – external@GESSA.CA
Internal Communications Officer (Secretary) 2007: Fady Hanna – internal@GESSA.CA
Social Officer (Coordinator) 2007: Joseph Schwarz -social@GESSA.CA
Student Advocacy Officer 2007: Tanya Sheikh – advocacy@GESSA.CA

Minutes of General Meeting (GM) (3nd Session)
Date: May 17th, 2007
Time: 14:43 to 16:54

Location: Health, Nursing & Environmental Studies Building: Room 142

Chaired By: Noman Khalid-Khan
GESSA Executive Committee (EC) Officers Present: Noman Khalid-Khan (VP Finance & Treasurer, Interim Chair), Joseph Schwarz (Social Coordinator, Interim Secretary), Kadambini Pandey (RTF Officer) and Julian Rodriguez (Communications External).
Regrets: Submitted to GESSA: Natalie Ambler, Andreas Link, Mimi Lau, Emily Sinclair, William Yeung, Lauralyn Johnston, and Tanya Sheikh.

Minutes Recorded by: Joseph Schwarz (Interim Secretary)

In Quorum: 18 (as verified by GM attendance list sheets)

Agenda
1) Call to Order: 2:35pm /14:35.
2) Motions to Adopt Current Agenda and Minutes of the last General Meeting.
3) Executive Committee Remarks: By-Elections. Please Vote !!!
4) Motion: to deliberate, discuss and decide on the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution as described in the Constitutional Amendment Package. Once, ratified and approved by the GM Amended to come into force with immediate effect For those that need a paper copy of the Constitutional Amendment Package, copies are available outside GESSA’s Office. Also, the Package will be sent to the electronic list-serves for students to examine. Paper copies of the Constitutional Amendment Package were not distributed to every 445 mailboxes, as to avoid the enormous expense of printing 6230 paper copies. The prohibitive expense would have caused budgetary difficulties.
5) Discuss the, 2nd year funding for 2007-2008 students. In consultation with students to strategize a plan to protect funding interests
6) Discuss and Present GESSA /FES/MES T-Shirts proposals and decide on a proposal.
7) Motion to elect all FES Committee/ External York University Positions held by GESSA Nominees. These Positions will be announced to the students via list serve by the External/Communications officer in a few days.
Discuss the possible creation of a GESSA “Green Sub Committee”. Roles/Duty and Function9) Motion to open floor for “Other Business” or “New Business” by any Person in attendance.
10) Motion to Adjourn Session II of GESSA’s 2007 GM.

GESSA 2007: Minutes of General Meeting (GM) (3rd Session)

1) GESSA’s 3rd Session 2007 GM called to order.

1B) In Reference to: Agenda Item 4
Chair : Given the various interpretations and perspectives that can be generated from Article 9 section 2 and Article 10 of the GESSA Constitution. The Chair suggested that this agenda item be split in to two discussion items. One to discuss, deliberate and resolve the various interpretations that can be generated from the above mentioned articles of the constitution to arrive at a consensus and that this procedural understanding be ratified by vote to resolve the proposed amendments to the constitution. Second, that the proposed amendments to the constitution be discussed in light of their content and aside from the question of procedure to amend the constitution. Any “Point of Order” brought up upon Agenda Item 4 is to be taken up in a discussion in 4a.

Motion 1B to split Agenda item 4) into 2 components 4A and 4B as follows:
4A) Procedural discussion and deliberation on the various interpretations of Article 9 section 2 and Article 10 of the GESSA Constitution. To arrive at an understanding as to how constitutional reforms and amendments are to be conducted with the purpose of amending GESSA’s constitution. Further to accommodate differing interpretations of these articles. All ‘points of order’ arguments to be discussed in agenda item 4A regarding main motion of agenda item 4.
4B )- Regulations A-B-C and D to be discussed, deliberated and adopted with due regard to the GM’s decision in agenda item 4A, but to discuss their substantive content only.

Motion was moved: Noman Khalid-Khan and-Seconded by Ed Crummey
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

Result: Motion Passed amending the current Agenda.

2) Motion: To Adopt the Agenda for 3nd Session of GESSA’s GM as amended by motion 1B and the Minutes of the 2st Session of GESSA’s GM.

Motion was moved: Ed Crummey and-seconded by Amit Lahiri
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

Result: Motion Passed

3) Discussed the pending by-election. Introduction of Chair-elect Amit Lahiri. candidate for the Student Advocacy position Najat Abdou-McFarland made a campaign statement. Secretary Joseph Schwarz read out statement for Student Advocacy candidate Tanya Sheikh (not present). The Chair discussed how students can vote on line (on the SC&LD website) and that the (yet to be elected) officers would take office sometime in mid June.

4 Initial proposed (as distributed in the agenda) Motion: To deliberate, discuss and decide on Regulations A, B, C and D as described in the Constitutional Amendment Package. Once, ratified and approved by the GM amending the GESSA constitution and to come into force with immediate effect.
Pursuant to the earlier Motion 1B (which was held and carried) amending the agenda of this GM, the discussion was first split on procedural and interpretive issues of constitutional reform.
4A) Procedural discussion and deliberation on the various interpretations of Article 9 Section 2 and Article 10 of the GESSA Constitution. To arrive at an understanding as to how constitutional reforms and amendments are to be conducted with the purpose of amending GESSA’s constitution. Further to accommodate differing interpretations of these articles. All ‘points of order’ arguments to be discussed in agenda item 4A pertaining to main motion as describes in agenda item 4. The particular procedural question (‘point of order’) before the GM was: “ Whether a Constitutional referendum, as described in Article 9 section 2 and article 10 of GESSA constitution can be conducted in a GM.? ” The following text provides a synopsis of
the discussion and deliberation:
The Chair discussed the precedence of previous GESSA executives committees using GMs for deliberating and holding constitutional amendment referenda in GMs for constitutional amendments. GESSA Constitutional Amendment I, which has been in full force for a year, was passed as a referendum held within a GM. The Chair reiterated the perspective that holding referenda as part of GMs encouraged discussion, debate and was part of deliberative assemblies. Also EC members explained why paper copies of the ‘Constitutional Amendment Package’ were not distributed to every 445 mailboxes, as to avoid the enormous expense of printing 6230 paper copies. The prohibitive expense would have caused budgetary difficulties and the resultant waste of resources when simple electronic messages were far more effective. The consensus on the floor was that given the technology of email and list serves that distributing paper copies in mailboxes was counter intuitive to the spirit of GESSA.

Member Ed Crummey questioned the validity of passing regulations and constitutional amendments in a GM vote/referendum versus a student body wide general referendum. A ‘point of order’ / ‘hostile motion’ was put forward by Ed Crummey challenging the EC motion to amend the constitution in a referendum within the GM.

Debate over the referendum question ensued. Many members voiced their support for a referendum conducted within a GM on constitutional matters for the sake of expediency and for the opportunity to debate the issues in a quorum. Few others contended that, they agreed with the above arguments that all constitutional amendments must be debate in quorum yet they still felt that holding a separate referendum, once debated, outside the GM was also worthy of consideration.

4B) After debate on agenda item 4A had been exhausted, The Chair, directed the assembly to consider and evaluate the content of the proposed amendments as Regulations as found in the “Constitution Amendment Package”, separate from the discussion in 4A, whether these proposed regulations are in the best interests of GESSA.
There was also support for the notion of amending the constitution in order to clarify and codify the obligations and duties of the EC. Additionally, concern over student apathy was discussed as well. Bob Isenberger commented, on the obligation of future ECs to follow the new regulations and amendments, if so passed, that they should be binding even if they are not added to the constitution. It was agreed that regulations and policies passed by a GM should be binding on subsequent GM sessions and ECs and that regulations shall, if any future constitutional amendment is made to give regulations and policies passed by a GM a more protective shelter in the constitution. Secretary Joseph Schwarz proposed the current and future EC members remain for one month beyond their terms on the executive (January 31) as non-voting members to help transition in the new Executives. Members of the GM defended the substance of the amendments and the justification for the Regulations as a means to ensure student interests are protected and future ECs are functional. The issue of clarity and length of the proposed amendments was discussed and the urgent need for such regulations. The Chair offered a brief summary of proposed regulations A, B, C and D and cited and answered all questions posed regarding specific clauses in these regulations by members in quorum .
The Chair, after exhausting discussion upon this agenda item 4B, proposed and tabled the following amended motion to the main motion as found in agenda item 4 for deliberation, in due consideration to the resolution and consensus built upon in agenda item 4A and 4B in unison:

Amended Motion: Whereas the EC’s proposed “Constitutional Amendment Package” seeks to amend the GESSA constitution by passing Regulations A, B, C and D as addendum articles to the constitutional document, it is the resolve of this assembly, after extensive debate and deliberation, that the intended effect of these regulations, except for Regulation D, can be achieved without amending the GESSA constitution. The same desired effect of Regulations A, B and C can be achieved by passing them as GESSA regulations pursuant to Article 5 Section 2, in particular, Clause f) and in relation to subsequent clauses b), d), e), g), h) and i).
Given the above, does the GM wish to approve, adopt and ratify Regulations A, B, and C as binding GESSA regulations for all GESSA members and that once ratified, these regulations to come into effect immediately?

Motion was tabled by Noman Khalid-Khan EC and moved by: Katrina Guy and-seconded by Bob Isenberger
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

Result: Amended Motion Passed. Regulations A, B and C Ratified.

——————– Short break taken ——————-

4C) The remaining Regulation D (as found in the ‘constitutional amendment package’), that was not included in the motion above was discussed and the following is the synopsis of the debate.

Members of the EC explained and justified components of the proposed amendments that actually alter the text of the constitution were in the best interests of GESSA. There was consensus reached that all constitutional amendments first have to be discussed and deliberate at GMs and then will be put forth to the students at a general referendum. It was agreed that the contents of Regulation D were appropriate, and that they would be further revised to make amendments to the constitution more stringent. It was further agreed that contents of Regulation D and its proposed changes were for all intents and purposes had been discussed and deliberated at 3rd GM 2007 and that the EC would decide the timing and revision of the constitution and the call for the referendum. It was further understood that the referendum process had been initiated. It was also agreed that one of the revisions to Regulation D (amending the constitution) would be to include a clause requiring quorum of no less than 3% of the graduate student body for any referendum results to be lawful. The process of amending the constitution (as set out in regulation: to be further revised) would be followed as per the current articles and clauses of the constitution.
The following new motion was tabled by the Chair:

New tabled Motion: Given the discussion above, does the GM endorse the intent and purpose of the revisions as set out in Regulation D (part of the constitutional amendment package), as presented to the GM? Further, that the EC will decide the time and the revisions to Regulation D for the purposes of amending GESSA’s constitution and that it is understood that, although the constitution in its present form does not require debate and discussion on purposed constitutional changes, that the above discussion fulfils the deliberation required as per the understanding reached in this session of the GM. And that the 3rd session 2007 of the GM initiates this constitutional amendment process.

New tabled Motion moved by: Noman Khalid-Khan and-seconded by Aviva Pelt

Vote Count: Passed Unanimously

Result: New Tabled Motion Passed. Regulations D Endorsed by GM to be forwarded to referendum as described in motion above.

5) Discussed the, 2nd year funding for 2007-2008 students. Issues discussed:

- the EC plans to discuss the funding issue with the new interim Dean (Barbara Rhader) once she takes office in July
- it was suggested the issue would best be addressed within the FES
- attempts to compensate 2nd year students should be done through securing more 2nd year GA ships
- soliciting CUPE for help would be a good strategy
- some felt it maybe too late to rectify the situation as the budget for the 2007-2008 school year has already been determined
- creating alliances with other faculties/departments also a potential strategy
- the FES Graduate Program Director should be contacted
- a petitions should be started
- a funding subcommittee should be formed to address the issue

6) Discussed the two GESSA /FES/MES T-Shirts proposals (Fair Trade vs. the Egyptian option). There were ethical concerns over the Egyptian source. Students felt a local and more ‘green’ source for the shirts would be more appropriate considering the nature of the Faculty. There was also concern over the fairness of the design selection process. Some suggested the GESSA ‘tree logo’ be used instead of the selected design. The matter of a commission for the creator of the selected design was also debated. Clarification will be sought. Also the ‘release of rights’ for the design will need to be discussed with the design’s creator. A motion was put forth to selected the Fair Trade Clothing Company as the source of the T-shirts.

Motion: What source does the GM wish to pursue for the creation of the T-shirts? The Egyptian option as described or the Fair Trade Organization source to create the GESSA T-Shirts?

Motion was moved: Noman Khalid-Khan and seconded by Katrina Guy
Vote Count: Passed Unanimously for Fair Trade Organization option

Result: Motion Passed in favour for Fair Trade option.

Secretary noticed that Quorum was lost
The remaining time was spent in non-binding discussions

7) Motion to elect all FES Committee/ External York University Positions held by GESSA. Nominees will be discussed at a future GM as per the dictates of Regulation C.

Discuss the possible creation of a GESSA “Green Sub Committee”. Non binding roles, duties, and function were discussed.

9) Other / New Business not discussed.

10) Motion: To adjourn Session 3rd Session of GESSA’s 2007 GM.

Motion was moved: Noman Khalid-Khan and Seconded by Bob Isenberger
Vote Count: Unanimous passed

Result: Motion Passed

The following GESSA Officers and Staff (at least two) attest and verify, to the best of their recollection, that the minutes of these proceedings represent the proceedings of the meeting recorded above:

Signature of Recorder: ____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of Secretary:____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of an Officer:____________________ Name: __________________

GESSA (Session III, 2007) General Meeting
AGENDA
Meeting of May 17, 2007
2:30pm / 14:30
Room 142 HNES
1) Call to Order: 2:35pm /14:35.

2) Motions to Adopt Current Agenda and Minutes of the last General Meeting.

3) Executive Committee Remarks: By-Elections. Please Vote !!!

4) Motion: to deliberate, discuss and decide on the 2nd Amendment to the
Constitution as described in the Constitutional Amendment Package. Once, ratified and approved by the GM Amended to come into force with immediate effect For those that need a paper copy of the Constitutional Amendment Package, copies are available outside GESSA’s Office. Also, the Package will be sent to the electronic list-serves for students to examine. Paper copies of the Constitutional Amendment Package were not distributed to every 445 mailboxes, as to avoid the enormous expense of printing 6230 paper copies. The prohibitive expense would have caused budgetary difficulties.

5) Discuss the, 2nd year funding for 2007-2008 students. In consultation with students to strategize a plan to protect funding interests

6) Discuss and Present GESSA /FES/MES T-Shirts proposals and decide on a proposal.

7) Motion to elect all FES Committee/ External York University Positions held by GESSA Nominees. These Positions will be announced to the students via list serve by the External/Communications officer in a few days.

10) Motion to open floor for “Other Business” or “New Business” by any Person in attendance.

11) Motion to Adjournment Session III of GESSA’s 2007 GM.

Minutes of General Meeting (GM) (2nd Session)
Date: March 29th, 2007
Time: 16:30 to 18:10
Location: Health, Nursing & Environmental Studies Building: Room 141.
Chaired By: Co-Chaired by all Members of the Executive Committee.
GESSA Executive Committee Officers Present: Noman Khalid-Khan (VP Finance & Treasurer), Joe Schwarz (Social), Fady Hanna (Secretary), Janelle Rose (VP Finance & Treasurer), Kadambini Pandey (RTF) and Julian Rodriguez (Communications External)
Regrets: None
Minutes Recorded by: Marie-Helene Brillinger (GA / Staff)

In Quorum: 26
Agenda
1) Call to Order: 4:35pm /16:35.
2) Motions to Adopt Current Agenda and Minutes of the last General Meeting.
3) Executive Committee Remarks: Faculty-Student Luncheon
4) Notice of Announcement: Resignations of the Chair and one Officer (Social Coordinator) at Large.
5) Motion: to have By-election in May 2007: for GESSA Chair and a position for “Student Advocacy Officer”. And for the Purposes of this By-Election to elect a Chief Returning officer
Duties of Chair:1. Upholds the Constitution
2. Is required to preside over all Association meetings to ensure order and decorum
3. Votes only in the event of a tie in all meetings
4. Assembles the proposed meeting agendas
5. Is a spokesperson for all decisions made by the Association
6. Writes a final report for the purpose of assisting the incoming Chair of the Association
Duties of Student Advocacy Officer:
1. Represent general student issues and administer surveys
2. Coordinate first and second year representatives
3. Assist GESSA Executive Committee initiatives
Duties of Chief Returning Officer:
1. To call an election process and a nomination period for candidates with due consultation with the executive.
2. To coordinate and monitor the elections
3. The CRO must be in no capacity be a GESSA representative in any of the FES committees or councils (e.g. Committee of Instruction, Faculty Council, etc).
4. To count the ballots after the polling is closed and store all ballots.
5. Follow all rules that the SC & LD has outlined for the election process.
6) Student Survey Results for T-Shirts.
7) Motion to Discuss & Approve GESSA Internal Budget Before March 31st, (Noman & Janelle)
Motion to approve current and enlist new members (a Maximum of 5 for every Committee) for GESSA Subcommittees. Social Subcommittee, Finance Subcommittee, MES Promotions Subcommittee 9) Motion to confirm all FES Committee Positions held by GESSA Nominees. Once Confirmed elected Nominees to provide updates to GM from their respective committees etc..· Natalie Ambler: Committee of Instruction
· Amit Lahari: Research and Awards Committee
· Marta Berbes: FAAC Hiring Committee
· Michael Hodge: Tenure and Promotions Committee
· William Yeung: Graduate Curriculum Sub-Committee
· Vacant: Planning Program Sub-Committee
· Najat Abdou-McFarland and Vacant: Graduate Students Association
· Teresa Abbruzzese: FGS Council (elected by Phessa)
· FES Student Senators (elected by Phessa)
· Non-Functioning: MES/LLB Program Sub-Committee
· Najat Abdou-McFarland: Appeals Committee
· Meagan Cameron: CUPE 3903 Unit 3 Shop Steward
· FES Faculty Council

10) Motion to open floor for “Other Business” or “New Business” by any Person in attendance.
11) Motion to Adjournment Session II of GESSA’s 2007 GM.

GESSA 2007: Minutes of General Meeting (GM) (2nd Session)

1) 2nd Session of 2007 GESSA’s GM called to order.

2) Motion: To Adopt the Agenda for 2nd Session of GESSA’s GM and the Minutes of the 1st Session of GESSA’s GM.

Motion was moved: Noman Khalid-Khan And-Seconded by Tanya Sheikh
Vote Count: All in Favour 7 All Against 0 Abstentions: 0Result: Motion Passed3)
Announced the Faculty-Student Luncheon to be held on April 12th at 11:00 – 12:30 pm in HNES Rm. 140. This is an opportunity for students and faculty to mingle. If the event is successful the Dean has offered to host future Faculty-Student Luncheon events annually or bi-annually. Students were encouraged to attend and spread the word for this social, as it would help make this event be a regular event hosted and paid by FES. Promotion of this event to be forth coming via posters and notices to the list serve web site.

4) Announcements were made regarding the Resignation; both dated March 8th, 2007 of two officers of GESSA, The Chair (Andreas Link) and one ‘Officer at Large’ Katie Fotheringham (Social Coordinator).

5A) Motion: To have By-election in May 2007: for GESSA Chair and a position for “Student Advocacy Officer”. And for the Purposes of this By-Election to elect a Chief Returning officer. The Duties and the responsibilities of these officers are understood to be as outlined in the agenda for 2nd session of GESSA’s GM 2007.Discussed the resignation of GESSA’s Chair Andreas Link and Social Coordinator Katie Fotheringham and the call for a by-election in order to fill the positions of “Chair” and “Student Advocacy Officer” for the smooth and good governance of GESSA. Emily Sinclair nominated herself as Chief Returning Officer to organize the by-elections. A separate motion was called to elect Emily Sinclair as the Chief Returning Officer to hold the by-elections for “Chair” and “Student Advocacy Officer” and give her (Emily Sinclair) any powers conferrable by the GM to carry out free and fair by-elections. Emily noted that GESSA should consider holding the polls online, and that she, once elected, will look into this possibility

Motion was moved: ? And-Seconded by Lauralyn Johnston

Vote Count: All in Favour: 15 All Against: 0 Abstentions: 0

Result: Motion Passed
5B) As a result of the previous motion and the nomination of Emily Sinclair as Chief Returning Officer, the following motion was held:
Motion: To elect Emily Sinclair as Chief Returning Officer and the GESSA GM to confer her with the power to conduct free and fair by-elections in the month of May, for the office of Chair, and Student Advocacy Officer.
Motion was moved: ? And-Seconded by Tanya Sheikh

Vote Count: All in Favour 9 All Against 0 Abstentions: 0

Result: Motion Passed
6) Discussed the results of the contest for the FES t-shirt graphic. The winning selection was reviewed. Two options for production of the t-shirts were discussed.
Option 1 – Getting organic, fair trade t-shirts from a Toronto based co-op

Option 2 – Getting the t-shirts made in Egypt – details to be determined

Production methods are still in the proposal stage and will be discussed at a future GESSA GM. In order to pick an option, Fady Hanna will give updates and written proposals above to the GESSA GM for further review.

7) Motion: To Discuss, Approve &Adopt GESSA’s Internal Budget Before March 31st, for May, 2007 to April 31st, 2008.
The budget provided below:GESSA Budget May 2007- April 2008.
Expected Sources of Revenue:
1. $15,000 York Central Student Levies
2. $4,000 Research and Awards Committee (FES)
3. $ 0.00 Interest Revenue (Interest Account TBA)
4. $ 9,245.95 Balance Carried Forward 2006-2007
Total Expected Revenue:
$28,245.95
Fixed Expenses and Operating Expenses:
· Research and Travel Fund (RTF): $12,000 (3 cycles: $3000+$6000+3000)
· York Courtesy Account: $400.00
· Audit Internal (York Central): $2500
· Graduates Student Association Levy : $4000
· Bank Expenses & Statements: $45
· General Meetings: $300
· Liability and Buffer Fund: $1000
Total Fixed Expenses and Operating Expenses:
$ 20,245.00
Variable & Capital Expenses:
· GESSA Fundraising: $600.00
· Orientation September 200[7]: $ 1600
· Socials and no Academic Events: $2500
· Student Groups and Initiatives: $ 3300
o UnderCurrents
o Maloca Gardens
o Eco-Art
o Hy-FIY
o “Plan-it” York
o Other
Total Variable & Capital Expenses:
$ 8000
Total Amount after all Expenses: $ 0.95
A copy of the above GESSA budget May 2007 – April 2008 was handed to all attendees and reviewed. Questions regarding the budget were answered. Discussed the method of allotment of finances for student groups and initiatives. No amendments to the budget, as proposed by the Financial Officers of GESSA, were tabled.
Noman, also announced that he is in the process of creating an application process for funding proposals for student groups that would like to apply to GESSA for funding their initiatives. Student input was considered and a document shall be forthcoming.

Motion was moved: Noman Khalid-Khan and-Seconded by Tanya Sheikh

Vote Count: All in Favour 17 All Against 0 Abstentions: 1

Result: Motion Passed
Motion: To approve and confirm current and enlist new members (a Maximum of 5 for every Subcommittees) for GESSA; Social Subcommittee, Finance & Fundraising Subcommittee, MES Promotions & Liaison Subcommittee.
A motion was moved to approve, and confirm current members on GESSA subcommittees and enlist new members; in the Social, Finance & Fundraising and MES Promotions & Liaison Subcommittees. Najat and Leslie volunteered and were enlisted for the MES Promotions & Liaison Subcommittee. (It was decided that the latter subcommittee would have no maximum of members)

Social Sub-Committee: Chaired by Joe Schwarz
· Aviva Pelt
· Tanya Sheikh
· Nicole Richards
· Mike Lipkus
· Michelle Gorman

MES Promotions & Liaison Subcommittee: Chaired By Kadambini Pandey
· Leslie Luxemburg
· Najat Abdou-McFarland
· Andreas Link
· Joseph M. Carnevale
· Mark stout
· Anjhela Salonga
· Mimi Lau

Finance & Fundraising Subcommittee: Co-Chaired by: Janelle Rose and Noman Khalid-Khan
· Member 1
· Member 2

Motion moved by a nomination and confirmation process

Motion was moved: ?? and-Seconded by Katherine Burns

Vote Count: All in Favour 18 All Against 0 Abstentions: 1

9) Motion: To confirm all FES Committee Positions held by GESSA Nominees. Once Confirmed elected Nominees to provide updates to GM from their respective committees etc..
· Natalie Ambler: Committee of Instruction
o Excused: COI decided on FES Grading System for OCGS review – chose to stay with current system (see Faculty Council update)
· Amit Lahari: Research and Awards Committee
· Marta Berbes: FAAC Hiring Committee
· Michael Hodge: Tenure and Promotions Committee
o Excused: reported that “the FES T&P Committee has convened three times during the last 8 months to consider the tenure and promotion files of three [faculty] candidates. Although the File Preparation Committees continue to work on the files of upcoming T&P candidates, no further meetings of the Tenure and Promotion
Committee are expected until the Fall of 2007.”
· William Yeung: Graduate Curriculum Sub-Committee
o Sub-committee have met several times this year…
· Vacant: Planning Program Sub-Committee
o The former GESSA chair had posted in January, a call to fill the remaining vacant FES committees positions. Tessa Forrest was then contacted, however at late was unaware that she was on the Planning Program Sub-committee (she is the elected 1st year York University representative for the OPPI). Clarification of the role of this sub-committee: the nominated FES graduate student has to be a current registered OPPI student member.
· Najat Abdou-McFarland and Vacant: Graduate Students Association [council]
o At the last meeting:
§ Recent GSA Referendum asks graduate students (excluding FES grads) for the implementation of a $10 levy so that the GSA can hire a full-time staff person and be able increase the operating grant funding to each graduate studies department
§ The VP – External (Salimah Vaiya) brought up the concern that Canadian Graduate Scholarship (CGS) recipients may not be getting Teaching Assistantships or would only get half Teaching Assistantships. This is more an administrative oversight than a deliberate attempt to block CGS recipients. The VP-External is keeping on top of this issue.
§ The Board of Governors report mentioned that there is talk of taking Policy studies out of the social sciences department and putting into the social work school. (Part of restructuring plan)
o A call out to fill the other vacant GSA council seat will be made.
· Teresa Abbruzzese: FGS Council (elected by Phessa)
· FES Student Senators (elected by Phessa)
· Non-Functioning: MES/LLB Program Sub-Committee
· Najat Abdou-McFarland: Appeals Committee
o Committee haven’t been called to meet so far this year.
· Meagan Cameron: CUPE 3903 Unit 3 Shop Steward
o Brought up continued concern about upcoming second year graduate students being limited from receiving GA, TA or RA positions, and some kind of financial assistance. RA positions are being transferred into TA positions for 2007-08 under new funding formula. MES students with Graduate Assistantships (Unit 3) were to receive a 3% raise on their total pay for 2006-07.
· FES Faculty Council (reported by Lauralyn Johnston)
o Present: Andreas Link, Ima Iumen, Noman Khalid-Khan, Joe Schwarz, Lauralyn Johnston, Emily Sinclair, Aviva Pelt, Susan Robinson…
o Excused: Civi Jacobsen (will soon confirm whether she’ll be on council beyond May 2007)
o Discussed the Policy and Regulations (Paul Wilkinson) review
o FES Grading System – further discussion …

Motion was moved to confirm FES Committee Positions held by GESSA nominees and updates were given for those committees whose representatives were present at the general meeting. Those nominees not present at the general meeting will be confirmed at a later date. Positions to be filled are: 1 representative for the Graduate Students Association council; and 1 representative for the Planning Program Sub-Committee, 1 representative for the Tenure and Promotions Committee (pending), and 1 representative for the FAAC Hiring Committee (pending).

Motion moved by a nomination and confirmation process
Other / New Business

10) Joe Schwarz announced that April 20th, 2007 starting at 6 or 7pm GESSA will host the last social for the term. This Social is to be at the Graduate Lounge and GESSA will provide snacks and refreshments. The Social Committee will disclose details and the promotion of the event in a few days.

11) Motion: To adjourn Session II of GESSA’s 2007 GM.

Motion was moved: Noman Khalid-Khan And-Seconded by ?

Vote Count: All in Favour 10 All Against 0 Abstentions: 0

Result: Motion PassedThe following GESSA Officers and Staff (at least two) attest and verify, to the best of their recollection, that the minutes of these proceedings represent the proceedings of the meeting recorded above:

Signature of Recorder: ____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of Secretary:____________________ Name: __________________

Signature of an Officer:____________________ Name: __________________

Minutes of the General Meeting
Monday, February 26, 2007, 12:30pm
HNES 140
Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University
GESSA Executives: In attendance: Andreas, Fady, Julian, Joe, Noman and Janelle Regrets: Kadambini, Katie
Total GESSA student body: 17
Meeting began at 12:45pm as minimum quorum (15) was reached.
· Andreas had two announcements:
o Rally for Kyoto, on March 11, at 12:00 at Nathan Phillips Square
o CAFE initiative
§ The 2007 Graduate Student Survey was distributed among the attendants to fill it in.
§ Andreas talked about the meeting with the Dean for next Thursday, March 1.
Added to the Agenda:
§ A question from a student requires asking about the new funds that the faculty will get, from where? And would it be sufficient to meet the faculty enrolment growth?
A motion to accept the agenda called by Andreas, second by Noman, all in favour.
1. Art-work for FES T-shirts (Leslie Luxemberger).
§ The drawings were posted and a ballot was made so that the attendants can choose best two among them.
§ Fady has collected the ballots to sort them out and identify the most chosen drawing.
§ Discussion about potential places to print the final choice on T-shirts.
1. FES Committees and Organizations:
§ FAAC Hiring Committee: there are number of new placements for faculty members (professors) who made their presentations and the FAAC is in the process of choosing between them.
§ HyFIY (Najat Abdou-McFarland): HyFIY’s mandate is enhancing a healthy local food initiative. They have a soup kitchen every Tuesday from 12:00 to 2:00 pm at the lounge in front of OSAS.
o They need more members, a call for more engagement. Najat mentioned that there would be some discussion with VP of Food at York to discuss further assistance.
§ Plan-it York (Aviva Pelt): planning students’ organization. Meetings are held every Tuesday at 1:00pm at MES lounge, room 207. They organize walking tours as well as many other initiatives concerning planning students.
o Next walking tour on Sunday March 4 will take place through: Parkdale/Liberty Village/West Queen West Triangle. PLAN-it York will be running the tour in conjunction with FES’s Eco-Art and Media Festival and Undercurrents Journal.
o In addition, Aviva said that they don’t have a club status yet, but they are working to get some funds from the faculty for the walking tours.
§ Maloca Garden: (AL Love): it’s important to have more FES students involved in this community garden, especially for the coming spring to help planting the garden. They have an event next month, they wonder about getting some funds from GESSA.
1. Executives updates:
a) Treasurer: Noman and Janelle
· Noman explained that there are two choices: either funding two or three students’ initiatives properly or funding more initiatives but each with less money. As an example, Under Currents fund which is $2000/year, mainly for printing.
· Noman asked about how students would like to see the money spend on?
· There was an idea from a student to combine some social events with alumni networking (e.g.: lunch) to build bridges and more connections as FES is an old faculty where lots of its alumni work in good positions. So how to profit from this opportunity?
· SARC is overwhelmed due to internal change so they said it is hard to assist in such opportunities this term. This requires some push from GESSA to try to organize a networking.
b) Research & Travel Fund: Noman (for Kadambini)
· A question about if there is a strategy in place for funding students. This opened the discussion for RTF.
· Only one student in attendance has applied for RTF. Advise students to check the GESSA website for the application, procedures, and deadlines.
· Noman explained that there are 3 deadlines for funding cycles: September 15, January 15 and April 15.
· Noman explained that some changes will be made for the applications to make them clearer. Students need to keep more than receipts for their expenses i.e.: flight tickets for their travel for example.
· Joe proposed to have more funding cycles instead of three times per year, maybe 4, 5 or 6 cycles. In this way, students will have more chances to apply.
c) External: Julian
· Discussions about 5101 (plan of study) course; quality of advising; and Graduate Enrolment growth.
· Recent survey distributed by the Faculty asked graduate students about the quality of advising and ENVS 5101. In relation between students and faculty members, the survey is intended to get students’ feedback about the process.
· Julian referred to Tania Portelli’s progress in talking with Ray Rogers, the program coordinator about the 5101 course, and Plan of Study advising. Julian explained that there are lots of complaints regarding the issue, especially the quality of advising and lack of adequate feedback.
· Overall, there is a big problem that students don’t have access to the survey results of which they fill in and submit to the Faculty.
· Andreas mentioned the issue of integrity of faculty members and their concern about assisting the students.
· The problem is much bigger due to the inadequate growth in enrolment comparing to Faculty resources and funds.
· FES position to Graduate Enrolment Growth: prevent further growth in the graduate programs – expecting MES enrolment to stabilize while PhD program may gradually increase.
· A comment, to contact the minister of education: sending e-mails about this imbalance. The York University Graduate Students’ Association are examining this issue and FES representatives on YUGSA council will report back.
d) Internal: Fady
· …
e) Social: Joe, and Katie (not present)
· Joe mentioned new idea for skating, most probably at Nathan Phillips Square, so the possibility to get discount for equipments’ renting for groups.
· An idea of having a semi-formal event at the end of the year.
· Some students want a public night on-campus. Could be difficult if on Fridays or Saturdays, therefore it could be held at Hoops on Keele Street adjacent to York, some of the execs have already checked it out.
· Other possibilities could be at Osgoode Hall, the Underground pub on Wednesday or even the Grad lounge.
f) Chair: Andreas
· Debriefed FES grading options issue (required review by the Ontario Council of Graduate Studies) from Open Faculty council meeting of February 22nd.
· Advised students that Natalie Ambler (Committee of Instruction rep) is in the process of developing a survey about the seven options. Students can consult the grading options document attached from the February 16th official posting about the open Faculty Council meeting.
· One student asked briefly about the most preferable options discussed.
·
The meeting ended 1:25pm with attendance below quorum numbers.
§ Motion for adjournment called by Andreas, second by Noman, all in favour.

General Meeting
AGENDA
Meeting of February 26, 2007
12:30pm
Room 207 HNES
1. Call to Order
2. Chair’s Remarks
3. MES 2007 T-shirts – images will be displayed for students to select their favorites
4. Administer survey collecting student ideas, concerns
- funding issues ex. GA funding
- how GESSA can help to improve the FES experience?
5. Committee/Organizational Updates (confirmed) –
- FAAC Hiring Committee (Marta Berbes)
- HyFIY (Najat Abdou-McFarland)
- Possible others include: Committee of Instruction, Research and Awards Committee, Faculty Council, CUPE, PHESSA, CAFÉ, Maloca Gardens, Undercurrents Magazine, Plan-it York (MES Planning student’s group), Campus Sustainability Coalition
6. Executive Updates
i. Treasurer (Noman/Janelle)
-Financial Priorities 2007 – what do students want our money to be spent on
ii. RTF (Research and Travel Fund) Officer (Kadambini)
-RTF improvements discussion to be lead by Kadambini
iii. External (Julian)
- Quality of advising and ENVS 5101
iv. Internal (Fady)
v. Social Coordinators (Joe and Katie)
vi. Chair (Andreas)
7. Other Business
8. Adjournment
Andreas Link
Chair

GESSA General MEETING – November 16th, 2006
AGENDA
General Meeting to discuss nominations and elections
Motion 1 Proposed Constitutional Amendment : Text:
Amendment I:
Amendment to Article 7. Section 1. Clause 4.
The above stated Clause shall now read:
The term of each Officer shall extend from January 1 until December 31 of each year. With exception of the position of the Treasurer, who shall continue in their position as Treasurer, as a voting member of the Executive Committee, and shall aid and advise the incoming Treasurer and other Executive Committee Officers on all financial matters till the last day of April of the following Year.
speak with Undercurrents re: funding
Speak with Maloca Gardens re: sustained funding
Discuss our budget in relation to funds available for the “special GESSA fund” to be discussed with Salina
Discuss the December social
Discuss meeting with Frances re: MES Lounge
MINUTES: General Meeting
GESSA Executive in Attendance: Janelle Rose, Amanda Rappak, Farah Ali-Khan and Eric Bernard
Location: Room 207 Faculty of Environmental Studies. GESSA Grad Lounge
Quorum Status: Met
-discussed nominations and elections:
-the roles and responsibilities of the executive members
-how to nominate oneself
-how and when elections will be run
-discussed and voted in favour of changes to the constitution Consitutional Amendment I re: the previous treasurer staying on within GESSA until April of the next year to train the new treasurer. Treasurers new term in office will run for 16 months beginning in Dec. and ending in April
Motion 1 Proposed Constitutional Amendment : Text:
Amendment I:
Amendment to Article 7. Section 1. Clause 4.
The above stated Clause shall now read:
The term of each Officer shall extend from January 1 until December 31 of each year. With exception of the position of the Treasurer, who shall continue in their position as Treasurer, as a voting member of the Executive Committee, and shall aid and advise the incoming Treasurer and other Executive Committee Officers on all financial matters till the last day of April of the following Year.
Motion 1 Vote Held Constitutional Amendment Carried by majority vote.
-discussed forming a sub-committee lead by the external liaison that will deal with concerns re: ENVS 5101 and bring these concerns to Diane LeGris
-discussed placing a representative on the Committee of Instruction to represent concerns of MES students
Speak with Undercurrents re: funding
-discussed how GESSA’s funding is being used by Undercurrents
-discussed establishing a process for the funding provided by GESSA ex. Receipts
-discussed increasing the awareness and visibility of GESSA’s funding ex. A Launch Party
Speak with Maloca Gardens re: sustained funding
-discussed the possibility of sustained funding for Maloca Gardens, supporting either the construction of an oven or a greenhouse
-Maloca gardens will provide GESSA with a high, medium and low budget proposal
-decided to discuss further at the next meeting and get back to Maloca Gardens within 3 weeks
Discuss our budget in relation to funds available for the “special GESSA fund” to be discussed with Salina
-created a budget schedule for November 2006 through to April 2008
-in order to reach available funds of $12 500 it was decided to cap RTF at $3000 per term, to remove social costs from the budget, instead have fundraisers or throw no cost socials, to remove orientation costs and remove the telephone service from the GESSA office
REVENUE
November 2006 – April 2007 May 2007 – April 2008
Operating Revenue $16 335 GSA Levy $15 000
Cost of Audit $ 3 500 R.A.C. $ 4 000
Revenue $ 19 835 Revenue $19 000
Total Revenue for November 2006 – April 2008 = $38 835
EXPENSES (social costs removed, orientation costs removed and RTF capped at $3000 per term)
November 2006 – April 2007 May 2007 – April 2008
RTF 2 X $3 000 = $6 000 3 X #3 000 = $9 000
Courtesy $500 $1 500
EcoArt $300 $ 300
Undercurrents $2 000 $2 000
Cost of Audit $1 500 $1 500
Expenses $10 300 $14 300
Total Expenses for November 2006 – April 2008 = $24 600 + $1 230 (5% of $24 600)
Total Expenses for November 2006 – April 2008 = $25 830
Total Revenue – Total Expenses = $13 005
Discuss the December social
-changed the date to Friday December 8th
Discuss meeting with Frances re: MES Lounge
-Andreas and Amanda will meet with Frances Friday November 17th to discuss GESSA’s sketch of proposed ideas for the MES Lounge

ACTIONS
Amanda- schedule a meeting with Carol and Joni to meet the new GESSA executive
-write a transition report for Dec. 1st
Janelle -liaise with Bruce from Undercurrents re: funding
-write a transition report for Dec. 1st
-be at the election booth Fri. Nov. 24th, and tally votes once finished
Eric -write a transition report for Dec. 1st
-be at the election booth Tues. Nov. 21st
Farrah -write a transition report for Dec. 1st
-be at the election booth Wed. Nov. 22nd
MH -be at the election booth Thurs. Nov. 23rd
-create sheet of nominees and send out on listserv by Fri. Nov. 17th
-create and post posters advertising elections for week of Nov. 20th
-create list of winners and send out to listserv once elections are over
Minutes Approved at preceding meeting:
___________________________
An Executive of GESSA
On Behalf of the Executive Committee 2006.