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by Paul Smith, JCAA Membership Secretary
(from Jersey Coast Anglers Association September 2003 Newsletter)
The Jersey Coast Anglers Association has always considered its Member Clubs to be the heart and soul of its existence. Above all, JCAA is respected for taking a position on each issue, only after a democratic vote by its Member Clubs. This sets JCAA apart from many organizations that make all decisions on the executive level, and then tell their members what to support.
The JCAA Member Clubs were given exclusive voting rights when it was formed, over 20 years ago. This policy has resulted in JCAA becoming a major voice for the marine angler in New Jersey. Fishing clubs, charter and party boat associations, dive clubs, and other outdoor sports groups are respected as the primary voices in the effort to maintain a clean environment, work for meaningful fisheries regulations, and maintain ample access to the waters and beaches of New Jersey.
There is an increasing trend for anglers, and other persons interested in outdoor sports, to resist joining organized clubs. This may be the result of having less free time to devote to a club's organized activities. Many individuals still have a strong interest in fishing and environmental issues, and look for some way to be heard and make a difference.
About twelve years ago, the JCAA initiated the JCAA Associate Member program. For a nominal annual fee, the Associate Member receives the monthly JCAA newsletter that provides current and accurate information on many vital issues. The Associate Member helps support the JCAA, obtains a great deal of factual information, but does not have any direct way of influencing the decision-making process of JCAA. The JCAA Member Clubs still retain the only voting rights at the monthly general meetings.
Members of the JCAA Executive Board have received an increasing number of questions, from individuals, about the possibility of some type of Individual Member status in the JCAA. The Board has recognized the possible need for this change for several years, but has not made any recommendation for change. The question has always been of how to give voting rights to an Individual Member while retaining the traditional voting rights of the Member Clubs.
The JCAA does not wish to turn away interested and motivated individuals that wish to become members. A special Membership Committee has been formed to investigate ways to address this problem and come up with an answer that will be fair to all concerned. We need persons who will be active in this committee and make meaningful proposals. This effort may prove to be vital to the continued growth and success of the JCAA.
If you are interested in becoming part of this committee, please contact Paul Smith at 732-899-2681 or E-mail at p.n.smith@att.net.