A Message from the Executive Director

YOUR VOTE. YOUR VOICE.

Since Laurelmead is wrapping up its committee-election season, it’s a good time to talk about our system of governance. We are the only senior-retirement cooperative in Rhode Island, meaning that the residents own equal shares of the community. As owners of the cooperative, they also participate in the governance of Laurelmead. 

We have six resident committees that support management by meeting monthly to discuss various matters within each department. Every March, new and returning committee members (all residents), are elected to 2-year terms by the shareholders. The Activities Committee assists with selecting many of the concerts, lectures, movies, and day trips that are offered on a daily basis. The Budget & Finance Committee oversees our operating and capital budgets. The Building & Grounds Committee addresses facilities projects such as the installation of our new roof and the repaving of all Laurelmead roadways. The Dining Committee makes recommendations regarding menu selections and food service. The Health & Fitness Committee supports our Fitness Department and other programs and activities that pertain to the physical and mental health of seniors. The Sales & Marketing Committee works with the sales team and our marketing consultant on branding and occupancy. 

Committee recommendations are brought to the Board of Directors for approval (or not) which are then communicated to the community. The Board of Directors is the ultimate governing body and is made up of seven residents elected to 3-year terms by the shareholders at the annual meeting every February.

The best thing about our system of governance is that it gives each resident the opportunity to have a voice in the way Laurelmead is run. I’m genuinely impressed by how intelligent, accomplished, and engaged our residents are. If you have any comments or questions, please contact me here. I look forward to hearing from you!