Summary of MBTCS Annual General Meeting
The Mountain Bluebird Trails Conservation Society (MBTCS) held its 2023 Annual General Meeting on April 6, 2024, at the Helen Schuler Nature Centre in Lethbridge. The meeting, chaired by MBTCS President Jim Leitch, was attended by 43 members both in-person and via Zoom.
Key Highlights
Bylaws Update: The meeting saw the approval of a new set of bylaws, with detailed amendments aimed at modernizing the society’s governance.
Financial and Operational Reports: Treasurer Kathy Koenig presented a financial report, which was accepted by the members. Trail Master Steven Shumborski reported on the efforts in trail maintenance and nest box refurbishment, logging significant mileage in support of these activities. Approximately 2,700 nest boxes are currently in service across various trails.
Presidential Address: President Jim Leitch highlighted the critical role of trail monitors in supporting the mountain bluebirds, particularly under challenging dry conditions. He also acknowledged the efforts of various directors and members in supporting the society’s operations and bylaw revisions.
Web and Media Engagement: Webmaster Curtis Goodman shared insights into the website traffic and encouraged contributions to enrich the site’s content. Efforts to compile a 50-year history of the society were also noted.
Elections: The society conducted elections for its executive positions as follows:
Jim Leitch - President
Curtis Goodman - Vice-President
Barb Glen - Secretary
Kathy Koenig - Treasurer
Steven Shumborski - Director
Ken Mackintosh - Director
Joe Michielsen - Director
Connie Chaplin - Director
Rick Williams - Director
Sheri Bohnert - Director
Special Contributions and Future Directions:
Guest speaker Myrna Pearman provided an enlightening talk on bluebird habitat protection in Alberta, backed by a rich collection of wildlife photography.
The society emphasized the importance of monitor reporting, with Director Joe Michielsen urging greater participation to accurately assess habitat support for bluebirds.
Looking ahead, the society scheduled an orientation day for June 1, with Jim Leitch offering tours of his trail to new and existing members.
The meeting concluded with a decision to appoint Jan Wong and Liz Davidson as auditors for the 2024 financial year and adjourned at 4 p.m.
Thank you to everyone that attended the AGM! We look forward to a successful 50th year ahead!!