Root Routledge, the last-place finisher in the most recent democratically conducted election of the Durango Natural Food’s board of directors, has continued to somehow captivate the Herald letters section with repetitive and negative misinformation regarding several situations, including the previous board’s consideration of multiple opportunities to evolve DNF for the benefit of customers, employees and the community.
This includes consideration of a merger with La Montañita Co-op. Per the bylaws, any such merger would have been approved by the DNF members. To imply or accuse the previous board of improper action by investigating this option shows a complete unawareness of co-op principles and responsible business practices. This is most surprising, given that Routledge presents himself as a Ph.D and president of Alpine Analytics, touting “sound ethical decisions based on data.”
Routledge, as one of the self-identified two “disgruntled” member-owners who initiated a petition to remove the previous board, is directly responsible for costing DNF thousands of valuable dollars in legal consultation and attempted special-election costs, the lowering of employee morale, creating needless turmoil among our members and diminishing our stature in our community. That petition was deemed procedurally invalid and, in the recent regular board election, Routledge received only 57 votes – the fewest of any candidate.
As an attendee at the last board meeting, where the five newly elected board members joined the two returning two members who were unanimously elected president and vice president, I can attest to the constructive and thoughtful conversation regarding the election of Kimberly Wiggins to the board. It is a credit to the current board that they recognize Wiggins’ talents and embrace them by internally electing her to the position of treasurer.
It is obvious there is a message here for Routledge and the few followers he may still have: Democracy and accountability prevail. The DNF board and member/owners appreciate the value of the co-op in multiple ways and wish to move forward toward greater successes, leaving unnecessary baggage behind.
Your support of Durango Natural Foods is appreciated!
Craig Scott
Durango
