TPL Board Approves Governance Changes

“These changes have been in the works for some time and they are a result of our effort of continuing to look at ourselves and how we operate, with the goal of making sure we are open and clear about our procedures,” said Will Rogers, TPL president, after the latest changes were adopted at TPL’s winter board meeting earlier this month. “In the 33 years of TPL’s existence, we have always followed the highest standards, and these changes are part of that tradition.”

One change, adopted by the board last year, was further separating the finance and audit committees and giving the audit committee increased responsibility for overseeing outside auditors. This and other changes were designed to meet new federal and California laws which tighten accounting standards and require a board of directors to more closely follow complex financial transactions. While most of those changes impact for-profit companies, some also apply to non-profit organizations. TPL elected to adopt changes beyond what was required by law to meet what it regards as best practices for nonprofits.

At its most recent meeting, the TPL board adopted a new conflict-of-interest policy, replacing earlier standards. The new rules carefully spell out circumstances which could give rise to potential conflicts of interests, and set up procedures to deal with those issues.

“TPL has always been aware of the potential of conflicts of interests and we have had good policies to deal with them. These changes are part of our regular review of these policies, with an eye toward keeping them as current as possible,” said Rogers.

The Trust for Public Land is a national nonprofit land conservation organization dedicated to preserving land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, and natural areas, ensuring livable communities for generations to come. Since its founding in 1972, TPL has protected more than 2 million acres of land in 46 states. The Trust for Public Land depends on the support and generosity of individuals, foundations, and businesses to achieve our land for people mission.