March 7th Membership Meeting
Democratic Women of Nevada County
Presentation & Business Meeting
March 7, 2026 – Agenda
“Inform, Empower & Encourage Women’s Participation in the Political Process”
Executive Board Present:
Debbie Lindh, President
Sushila Mertens, Vice President
Sueann Gawel, Treasurer
Executive Board Absent:
Marlene Sharon, Secretary
Becki Walker, Communications
Membership and Guests Present: 43
10:40 a.m. – Presentation Meeting Called to Order
President Lindh called the meeting to order and introduced our two guest speakers who are candidates for Nevada County School Superintendent: John Bagget and Tim Reid.
President Lindh facilitated the proceedings by asking each candidate three predetermined questions, then opened it up to questions from members and guests. She reminded attendees that this portion of the meeting has been videotaped and will be available on our website soon.
11:50 a.m. – Business Meeting Called to Order
1. Approval of February 2026 Minutes
Before voting on measures, President Lindh explained that at check-in, members were given blue lanyards for the purpose of indicating those in the room who were eligible to vote. She added that name tags will be available at the April meeting.
President Lindh presented a motion to approve the February 2026 minutes. Victoria Oliver moved that approve the motion and Lily Marie Mora seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
2. Treasurer’s Report
Sueann Gawel presented the club’s cash flow:
· Checking: $775.04
· Savings: $1,900.08
· Petty Cash: $92.71
· Total Balance: $2,767.83
Treasurer Gawel explained these balances agree with the current bank balance, and do not include an additional $1,150.00 of income, which is in transit.
President Lindh presented a motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report. Adella Albiani moved we approve the motion and Victoria Oliver seconded it. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Discussion Items
A. March 3 Candidate Forum
President Lindh discussed the Mar 3 Candidate Forum hosted by DWNC, and that presented Mr. Bennett and Ms. Hall, who are running for District 3 U.S. Representative. The event was well attended and provided an opportunity to be informed of upcoming elections. She reminded attendees that the event was videotaped and will be available on our website soon.
B. April 4 Membership Meeting
President Lindh noted the April 4 agenda is in process, and will include a presentation by Kim Surla regarding openings with the Grand Jury. The hope is women will be interested in applying so women will be represented on the Jury.
C. Upcoming Events
President Lindh and Vice President Mertens noted the following events: the Peace March at Brunswick following our meeting, the Anti-Fascist workshop March 14, DWNC Tee Shirts with Resist on the front and our logo on the back arriving March17, the Meet-Up at Petra March 18, and the No Kings Rally March 28.
D. DWNC Change of Tax Status
President Lindh explained the process that precipitated the need to change the DWNC IRS status from a 527 organization to a 501(c)4 designation. The change is motivated because of IRS filing requirements and to better align with the DWNC Mission and Purpose that support women. She will call the IRS on Monday, March 9, to get an update on the filing.
E. Bylaw amendments and updates
Vice President Mertens discussed in detail the recommended changes to the Bylaws. President Lindh introduced Victoria Oliver and Eva Lamm-Ruben, and thanked them for serving as member representatives assisting with the Bylaws changes.
President Lindh presented a motion to approve the Bylaws. Shanti Emerson moved we approve the motion and Adella Albiani seconded it. The motion was passed with 22 Ayes, 0 Nays, 1 Abstention.
F. Featured Members of the Month
President Lindh introduced Tara Marino & Adella Albiani as the featured members this meeting. They presented their biographies including their background, families, current community involvements, and interests. The membership responded positively.
Featured members for April 4 will be Victoria Oliver and Eva Lamm-Ruben.
4. Old Business
Luncheon report
Vice President Mertens presented details for the upcoming Scholarship Luncheon that will honor two recipients. The Luncheon will be held May 9 at Bright Futures for Youth. Vice President Mertens noted that reservations are mandatory and pointed out a detailed flyer with a barcode for those interested. She also provided a volunteer sign-up list for those who can help.
Motion to Adjourn
Motion to adjourn by President Lindh.
Meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m.