This year there are four positions and four nominees. In the bylaws the nominees for directors have to be submitted to the membership 45 days before the annual meeting. Given there are only four nominated, may the list of nominees be changed to a slate of directors to be presented to the membership for election by acclamation or is it necessary to send out a ballot to be returned in the usual way? We would not have to send ballots out under those circumstances. - Bob Odell, Aug. 18, 1999

A: I'm afraid you've got to send the ballots out. Bylaws rule.

Your organization may wish to consider an amendment to the bylaws giving an alternate procedure if this should occur again.