Our Governance
Community Unitarian Universalists in Brighton (CUUB) is a self-governing congregation. Members make the big decisions together, and an elected Board of Trustees handles the church’s affairs between congregational meetings. CUUB belongs to the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and its Mid-America Region.
The Congregation
Our members vote on the most important matters:
- Electing the Board of Trustees and the Nominating Team
- Approving the annual budget
- Calling a minister
- Changing our bylaws
The annual congregational meeting is held each spring (usually in May). The date is announced at least 30 days ahead, and the agenda is published in CUUB News. Special meetings can be called by the Board or by a petition from 20% of members.
Any member 13 or older may vote. To become a member, contact the Membership Team.
The Board of Trustees
The Board has at least 5 elected members:
- President
- Vice President
- Secretary
- Treasurer
- 1-2 members-at-Large
Trustees serve two-year terms that start July 1. The terms are staggered, so part of the Board is elected each year.
The Board looks after CUUB’s mission and vision and speaks for the congregation between annual meetings. It approves policy, oversees finances, manages risk and liability, and approves staff contracts.
Board meetings are held monthly, usually on the third Wednesday, and members are welcome to attend. Check the calendar, since holiday months can move the date. To get an item on the agenda, email info@cuub.org before the meeting. Members can participate in Board meetings and ask their questions or share their concerns during the Call to Members agenda item.
Board Committees
These committees work directly with the Board:
- Finance Team: manages church finances with the goal of long-term financial health, and prepares the draft budget each year
- Ministry Team: supports the mission and vision of shared congregational ministry.
Teams and Small Groups
Most of the work at CUUB is done by volunteer teams, including Social Justice, Spiritual Exploration, Pastoral Care, Membership, Facilities and Worship. Each team chooses its own leaders, and new members are always welcome. The Leadership Develop Team, elected by the congregation, finds and nominates candidates for elected positions.
Our Minister
Our minister is in charge of the congregation’s spiritual life, pastoral care and worship Sunday services. The minister also sits on the Board and most teams as a non-voting member.
Bylaws
The CUUB Bylaws describe how our congregation is governed. They are reviewed at least every five years, and changes need a two-thirds vote of the congregation.