At the Rama Co-op 72nd Annual Meeting on June 28 at the Roman Catholic Hall, board members, employees, managers and members heard confirmation that the C-Store located along highway No. 5 will be closing on July 31.
"It was a hard decision", said Ray Bourgeois, general manager. "The C-Store has been losing money over the last three years and to the point that the board made the decision to close the store to ensure that our overall Co-op business is sustainable."
The C-Store location is the only Rama Co-op location that will be closing. Co-op customers and members will continue to be served by the Agro Centre and Cardlock facility. The newly constructed Cardlock facility opened in February.
Randy Nieckar, board president, welcomed all members and acknowledged there will be some challenges and changes in the next while.
“Whatever the changes we face, we will continue to make decisions that are in the best interest of our members,” Nieckar said.
During the question-and-answer period, the idea of amalgamation was brought up, something that Nieckar didn't dispute but admitted any potential partnership with another co-operative is likely a year down the road.
Daryl Michaluk, manager, provided the financial report during the agenda. He also recognized the staff and thanked them for their contribution.
Ryan Anderson, representing Federated Co-operative Limited (FCL), reported on 2016 and various projects including Community Spaces.
Re-elected were Dale Grona, secretary and Larry Brodziak, director.
The board of directors and officers is comprised of seven elected representatives: Randy Nieckar of Rama, president; Joe Pasiechnyk of Hazel Dell, vice-president; Dale Grona of Rama, secretary; Ray Bourgeois of Wadena, manager; Ron Mocyk and Larry Brodziak of Rama, directors; and John Kwiatkowski of Canora, director.
Rama Co-op has over 700 members.
The meeting was preceded by a beef-on-the-bun lunch served by Co-op employees to 60 guests. Proceeds from the lunch were donated to the village’s Canada Day 150 celebrations.
