What to expect at the Town Hall: a primer to the OTSU AGM

A new school year is in session and that means it’s time for the OTSU Annual General Meeting!

Ahead of the AGM we’re holding two Town Hall meetings (one at the downtown campus and one at the north). The purpose of the Town Tall is so that you can understand what to expect at the AGM, learn about the proposed Bylaw amendments, and ask questions.

Town Hall Dates

• DOWNTOWN CAMPUS
  • October 22
  • 10:00 a.m.
  • Charles Hall (CHA 105)

• NORTH CAMPUS
  • October 22
  • 3:30 p.m.
  • Shawenjigewining Hall (SHA 020)

What to expect at the Town Hall

Essentially the Town Halls are a chance to have your voice heard by your union leaders, get answers to your questions, and learn what to expect about the AGM’s proceedings.

At the meetings, you’ll hear from the OTSU’s Board of Directors regarding the proposed Bylaw amendments, and have the chance to ask questions and get clarification on any matters regarding the AGM.

The Town Hall is a chance to:

• Speak with the Board of Directors
• Ask questions and get clarification
• Learn more about an issue
• Get informed about the AGM and how it functions
• Raise concerns and discuss OTSU matters

The Town Hall is not:

• An opportunity to introduce policy changes
• A time to vote on strategic priorities (that happens at the AGM)
• For changing current procedures
• A chance to implement new goals and directives

What is an AGM?

The AGM is an annual gathering between the OTSU's Board of Directors, its Executives, and its stakeholders (that’s you). It is to ensure transparency and accountability in how the student union is run. An AGM is a structured meeting that is there to conduct the legal business of the organization.

The AGM is when the OTSU shares with students its goals and priorities, reports, financials, policy recommendations, and votes on proposals. It's also a time when members can put forth motions to discuss matters regarding governance and policy changes, advocacy issues, or service amendments.

It's your opportunity to understand what we are doing at a high level, and use your voice to vote on the future of the organization.

Here’s what to expect:

• Approval of last year’s AGM meeting minutes
• Approval of financials and reports
• Appointment of the auditor
• Approval of proposed Bylaw amendments
• Vote on implementing an ancillary fee for the Nutrition Access Program
• Motions from members (if submitted and approved before the deadline)

Important Dates

• 2025 OTSU Annual General Meeting
  • Date: October 29
  • Time: 7:00 p.m.
  • Location: SCI 1350 (in-person)
    • Transportation will be available from downtown to north campus. Details to come on our Instagram and at otsu.ca
    • Free food and refreshments will be provided (while quantities last).

• Proposal Form Deadline
  • Oct 13, 11:59 p.m.
  • If you wish to put forth a motion to discuss a topic related to governance, policy, Bylaws or OTSU services, fill out this form and submit it before the deadline.

• Proxy Form Deadline
  • Oct 19, 11:59 p.m.
  • If you cannot attend the AGM and wish to have another voting member vote on your behalf at the AGM, fill out this form and submit it before the deadline.