Summary of Key Points of the Constitution of the Community Association of Poundbury

Name: The Community Association of Poundbury (CAP)

Structure: Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) with voting members

To encourage and facilitate the development of a strong, thriving, and inclusive community in Poundbury

Focus on overall wellbeing, environment, safety, and culture of the community

Represent community interests, inform members, liaise with other organisations, and initiate beneficial activities

Open to individuals who are residents, work, or volunteer in Poundbury

Open to organisations (businesses, charities, public sector entities) based in Poundbury

One vote per individual member and one vote per organisation member

Annual General Meeting (AGM) to be held within 18 months of registration, then at intervals of no more than 15 months

At least one other general meeting per year

Extraordinary General Meetings (EGMs) can be called by trustees or by at least 15 members

Between 3 and 12 elected trustees, plus co-opted trustees (up to 1/3 of elected trustees)

Trustees must be natural persons of national voting age or above

Trustees can be from both individual and organization members

One-third of trustees to retire by rotation each year

Decisions at general meetings by simple majority (unless otherwise specified)

Trustees can make decisions at meetings or by written resolution

Trustees to manage finances in accordance with Charities Act 2011

Annual accounts to be prepared and examined

Members may be required to pay reasonable membership fees, or voluntary donations may be suggested

Constitution can be amended by 75% majority at a general meeting or by unanimous written agreement of all members

Dissolution requires 75% majority at a general meeting or unanimous written agreement of all members

Charitable status and structure (CIO vs. unincorporated association)

Expanded membership to include workers, volunteers, and organisations in Poundbury

More detailed governance structure and compliance with Charity Commission requirements

Provision for paid staff if needed

More formal financial management and reporting requirements