Huxley Communications has operated as a member-owned cooperative since 1937, not only providing members with communications services, but also giving them the benefits of cooperative membership.  “Many benefits are available to cooperative members.” says Gary Clark, Chief Financial Officer.  “Members vote on special issues and elect the directors who guide the strategic direction of our company.  Members also receive allocation checks for each year that the cooperative has a financial surplus.”  Clark continues.

There are many benefits to members of a cooperative including:

• Open Membership-Anyone who can use a cooperative’s services and is willing to accept the responsibilities of membership is eligible to join.
• One Member, one vote-Power is shared equally among all members, rather than concentrated in the hands of a few. Cooperatives are based on democratic principles. Members elect a board of directors and, when necessary, vote on specific issues.
• Limited return on investment-The purpose of a cooperative is to provide a service to its members, not to make a profit.
• Surplus is returned to the members-Margins above and beyond the costs required to cover operating expenses are returned to the members in proportion to their patronage. The more business a member does with the co-op in a given year, the greater the amount of the patronage refund for that year.

Huxley Communications Treasure Hunt