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          As a community, we meet monthly at the General Meeting to discuss issues, events, budgets, and hear proposals from committees.  Community decisions are made by consensus.  This is a process to allow all concerns and voices to be heard, and to make a decision that all community members can live with for the “good of the community”.  Sometimes this process is swift and easy; sometimes it is arduous and long.  Usually major decisions require discussion at three General Meetings, with proposal refinement along the way. (See also Meetings).  We have opening and closing “exercises” to learn something new about each other and have fun.

   There are 14 committees that meet monthly to divide up the work and responsibilities. Most committees have a budget.  Proposed budgets from each committee are discussed annually at three General Meetings until we reach consensus. This also determines our homeowner association (HOA) dues. We are refining our budgeting process as we go along to insure that our budget fits with our vision and values and runs in the black.

    Each committee is represented at the monthly Coordinating Council to guide the next general meeting agenda and for some oversight of community issues.  (see Committees).

    On a more personal nature, the Heart Team serves to confidentially hear and facilitate resolution of issues between members, and watches over the “heart” of the community.

    Yulupa Cohousing is legally structured as a condominium complex with a homeowner’s association.  All owners are on the Board of Directors.  Other residents are welcomed to participate in meetings and decisions, exclusive of final budget decisions.