Express Staff
smokyriverexpress.com
@SmokyRiverExprs
The year 2017 proved challenging for the Girouxville Co-op, but the business has come through the difficulties and is looking ahead.
These were among Roger Guerette’s highlights when he gave his presentation to the membership at the organization’s annual general meeting. It was held in the Girouxville Community Centre in the evening of April 25.
“As most of you know, this is my first year as president, and it’s been a very challenging year,” says Guerette. “In an effort to improve the Co-op, we have looked into the best staffing options available.”
This included finding a replacement for the general manager position.
“We believed we had found a good candidate, but within six months, the new general manager decided this was no his choice of career.”
So, the Girouxville Co-op attempted to share management with the Peace Country Co-op, but it wasn’t a good fit, he adds. However, effective April 23, Jamie Bean came on board as the new general manager.
“Despite how difficult all these changes have been on the board of directors, please realize that this has been much more taxing on the remaining staff.”
Other action included sales of the old fuel truck and stock inventory, including tires. The tills and phones had to be replaced and some safety equipment was added. Also, a premium fuel pump was added at the Girouxville location and there is a possibility of replacing the card readers there.
“The rest of the Girouxville Co-op building and equipment are in good condition and should not have to be replaced for a while.”
Concerning future plans, the board is looking to expand its service area by adding a new cardlock.
Financially, he continued, the Girouxville Co-op is much more profitable since the start of 2018.
“We are expecting that our profits will surpass the previous years by year end.”
Later, Jamie Bean introduced himself to guests and highlighted his background and business experience.
The Smoky River Express will have a story about Bean at a later date.
Other matters were handled during the AGM. Hector Ouellette, the chairperson for the meeting, highlighted the minutes of the 2017 AGM, and they were accepted as presented.
Ouellette also read the auditor’s report and the financial reports for 2017, and he answered questions. Both reports were accepted as presented.
The last item on the agenda was the election of officers. Denis Boucher and Kristine Girard were elected to two-year positions and Roger Guerette was elected for one year.
Dinner was provided prior to the meeting. One-hundred and fourteen people attended the dinner, including 75 paid members. Equity cheques were handed out to members at the end of the meeting.
The Girouxville Co-op celebrated its 75 anniversary in 2017. At the annual general meeting in 2017, two cakes featured the Girouxville Co-op logo design.