“Without a by-law update, a co-op cannot rely on the statutory authorization alone.”
What Changed
Ontario amended the Co-operative Corporations Act to permanently authorize electronic and hybrid member meetings, removing temporary pandemic-era provisions. The amendments also introduced advance director voting and signature motions.
Electronic and Hybrid Meetings
Co-operative corporations may now hold meetings entirely electronically or in a hybrid format — provided the co-op’s by-laws expressly permit it.
Advance Director Voting
Directors may now cast votes in advance of a meeting, reducing the administrative burden on volunteer boards.
Signature Motions
Boards may now pass resolutions by written signature without holding a meeting, streamlining routine governance decisions.
What This Means for Co-op Buyers
- By-law currency — confirm the co-op’s by-laws have been updated.
- Meeting participation rates — electronic capability often improves participation.
- Board responsiveness — signature motions enable faster board decisions.
Pellucis reviews co-op by-laws, meeting minutes, and governance documents to flag outdated governance frameworks and board responsiveness issues.