June 2025 Board Meeting

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TarValon.net Board Meeting Minutes

Date: 6/14/2025 @ 11:45 a.m.

Chair: Xander

Attendees: Cassie, Raevyn, Erin, Elanda, Karassa, Xander, Yenie, Braedan

Current Status of TarValon.net

Membership Activity

Cassie reported that new members continue to join the community and that member departures have recently decreased. While this indicates a positive trend, she acknowledged that some tension and mistrust remain among a portion of the membership.

Community Climate

The Board inquired about steps being taken to address these lingering tensions. Cassie noted that the issue has been discussed in the Hall, but no formal actions have been implemented at this time due to reluctance from some members to participate in constructive conversations. Rae agreed, citing ongoing interpersonal issues and a general lack of understanding within some parts of the community. The Board acknowledged the difficulty in fostering progress when individuals are not believed to be willing to engage in good faith or with positive intent. It was noted by the Officers that some members expressed a desire to see the News & Politics (CE) forum return. However, there is no current intent to reinstate it, as the Officers believe the negative impacts of the forum outweighed its benefits

Forum and Engagement Trends

Rae referenced prior conversations regarding forum activity and the number of actively posting members. The group discussed concerns raised about the lack of space for deeper or more meaningful discussion, as well as the observation that some members only log in during times of conflict.

The Board highlighted that many members choose not to engage with individuals who are perceived to be seeking confrontation. As a result, some members express frustration at not receiving the argumentative engagement they may be expecting.

Rae mentioned receiving several private messages from members with a range of thoughts and feedback. The Board noted that while the refusal to engage may contribute to lower participation, she remains optimistic that member activity will normalize in time.

Platform Challenges

The group discussed usability concerns related to Discord, referencing issues raised by members, including Ishy. Specifically these were technical issues with regards to getting announcements broadcast.

Positive Developments

The Board observed that, despite reduced activity in some areas, the overall community climate appears to have stabilized with less interpersonal conflict. Cassie confirmed that drama has notably decreased, some returning members have re-engaged, and certain areas of the site have improved. She believes that time will continue to help heal the community, although she acknowledges that some challenges may persist. Erin noted that seasonal factors, such as summer vacations and travel, may also be contributing to temporarily lower engagement. She added that previous membership declines have often occurred during the summer season, although those transitions were often less publicly visible than the current one.

Future Plans

Administrative Meeting

Cassie advised that planning is underway for the upcoming Admin Meeting, with a tentative date of July 12 (poll posted) and an agenda currently being drafted.

Event Planning and Community Support

Ongoing discussions include how to approach service-oriented events, what formats may be most effective, and how to implement them in a sustainable and inclusive way.

Moderation and Reporting System

A discussion was held on transparency versus privacy in the handling and perception of reported posts. It was noted by the Officers that while a few individuals account for a large portion of reports, instances of "report storming" appear to have decreased. The group emphasized the need to strike a balance between ensuring effective systems and avoiding moderator burnout. While also recognizing that some members feel anxiety when they see that their posts have been reported, which can create a disincentive to participate. The Board suggested categorizing reports by type of issue to help streamline the process. The thought of no longer having reports visible was also mentioned. These ideas will be brought forward at the Admin Meeting for further discussion.

Annual Party (Anni Party)

Planning is currently underway. Additional agenda items for the Admin Meeting will be added as needed.

Board Support Needs

Cassie confirmed that she currently does not require anything additional from the Board. Erin and Raevyn echoed this sentiment.

Fundraiser Planning

Cassie reported that plans for the upcoming fundraiser are actively in development.

Scholarship Update

Cassie and Erin shared that two applications were submitted for the annual scholarship. Both applications are of high quality, and selections will be finalized before the beginning of the upcoming school year. The Board suggested increased outreach next year to encourage broader participation, as more applicants would be ideal.

Library Restructuring

Cassie advised that plans to separate fictional content from community information within the Library have been placed on hold. The topic will be discussed further with Toral at the Admin Meeting, with the goal of developing a process that is manageable and not overly burdensome on a small number of contributors.

Affirmation Vote – Chairperson Transition

The Chair Person conducted an affirmation vote to appoint Elanda as the new Chairperson of the Board.

The vote passed unanimously with no objections.

Elanda will assume the role of Chairperson following this meeting.

Account transitions and forum permissions will be managed by Xander and Qam, and Cassie will announce the leadership change on the forums.

Karassa inquired about the term length for the Chair position. Xander clarified that the role is typically rotated annually, and that the current Chair remained in position longer than expected due to recent transitions.

Karassa suggested that this context be included in the forum announcement to avoid any misunderstandings or speculation.

Meeting Adjourned

Minutes Taken by : Braedan