—by Andrew Brawley

The results of the recent 107ist Board election were announced today. Congrats to Jeremy Wright and Sherrilynn “Sheba” Rawson on their reelection, and to Mike Coleman for winning the open seat. All three do amazing work, and I have every confidence they will continue to represent the Timbers Army in the best way possible throughout their terms.

Upon the announcement of the results, I noticed some Twitter chatter (which, honestly, represents all that it just and true in the world) about the disappointing percentage of voter turnout among the 107ist membership. To play Devil’s Advocate here for a brief moment, I’ll reply with a quote from Socrates*:

“Be careful what you wish for.”

I would NEVER dissuade an eligible voter from doing so. But to encourage non-voters to vote just for the sake of voting doesn’t really help matters, either.

Everyone has their own reason(s) for paying the $25 annual membership fee. Just the same, there are others out there who have reasons to NOT pay the $25 fee.

Let’s be frank here. Some people only pay the annual fee so they can get tickets to Seattle/Vancouver away matches. Some might only want the occasional discount pass to the Adidas store. Some might really love our tifo and wanna see it continue. Some might be tired of the guilt trip we give them for NOT being a member.

Whatever their reasoning, if that’s all they want in return from joining 107ist, then so be it. Their fee is helping the community in ways that more active members get to dictate. Unless they see something happening they don’t like, causing them to not renew their membership, odds are good they’ll continue to renew and business can proceed as usual.

I compare this scenario to the recent election. On top of voting for the Presidency and other offices that I feel do affect me on a regular basis, I also voted for the lone candidate running for my local water district. Why did I vote for that person (whose name escapes me right now)?

A)     They were the only person running.

B)      There was no other alternative.

C)      Who the eff really cares?

As a human, I need water. Quite often. I drink it. Bathe in it. Make hot tea buttered rums with it. I think water is great, and I look forward to its future availability. However, until there comes a scenario where my water starts to taste bad, smell bad, become unavailable, or suddenly cost double, I’m not gonna put much energy or thought into it. They get their share of my property tax payment, I get water to use as I wish, and both parties are happy with the way it all works.

It’s the same situation with 107ist. It’s a well-oiled machine that works well. We realize it’s not on auto-pilot due to the hard work of undervalued individuals. But, unless something stops working or totally sucks, you’re not gonna see a major response. Be thankful for that.

If I were a board member and suddenly saw an unexpected number of people show up to a general meeting, half of me would be stoked, while the other half would head for the hills. (One of many reasons why I would make a terrible board member.)

If the actions of the board caused distress, the “do nothing” faction could become motivated enough to unify, put their own people in charge, and do exactly what their party wishes: nothing. I’m not a fan of the do nothing faction, and I’d be bummed to see that happen. And while it’s an unlikely scenario, it’s not an impossible one.

One of my favorite sayings from my Masonic youth group days is this: “you get out of it what you put into it.” It totally applies here. If all someone wants to get in return from their 107ist annual dues is $25 in savings at the Adidas store and partner bars/food carts, then so be it. Those who pay the $25 dues in addition to their own blood, sweat and tears in the form of volunteering, tifo coordination, etc., obviously you’re getting far more out of it.

Neither person is wrong, or more right than the other. It just is what it is. If the name of the game is to increase volunteerism and community involvement (which I’m not alone in feeling that it should be), then come up with a system that rewards those who put in the effort.

One idea: if Seattle Away tickets are the biggest motivator for driving membership, then perhaps a points system should be put in place, rewarding those who participate with priority access to the prized away match / bus tickets.

Some will love this idea, while others will hate it. If the Board wishes to encourage participation, it’s up to them to implement a plan. Just remember: with every action…reaction….blah blah blah. I’m going to the Adidas store to finish my Festivus shopping.

 

*- not really

This is an opinion piece and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the 107ist or the TA.