Letter: Dues over-payment issue was mishandled

Published 2:01 pm Monday, May 23, 2022

For years there has been a glitch in our Membership Statement that has now generated an unallocated over-payment in the amount of $10,000. Using the numbers the lodge claims — 700 members as an average — that is $14.29 dues credit per member.

The lodge states that a Grand Lodge and a Washington state association officer “suggested” the unallocated funds be brought up on the floor to determine what to do with them. Without full disclosure to all members, they actually voted our monies be contributed between two charities of their choice and nine of those voting had been initiated that evening.

I would like the contact information for these two reps and let them know I vote a resounding “no!” Albeit only $14.29, I require my funds to be allocated to where I paid them — my membership dues account, and credit it as such.

If they move forward, they must do it the right way and notify all members (near and far away) via 1st class mail about why they are receiving the two charity stickers (yes, we require them), and a letter of explanation.

REBECCA MORALES

Long Beach