About WATI

Bylaws of West Virginians Against
Transmission Injustice (WATI)

A 501(c)(4) Advocacy Organization

Article I: Name and Purpose
Section 1: Name
The name of this organization shall be West Virginians Against Transmission Injustice
(WATI).
Section 2: Purpose
The organization is established to oppose the approval and construction of high-voltage
powerlines across West Virginia that are intended solely to supply electricity to data centers in
Virginia. WATI will educate, advocate, and mobilize communities to prevent transmission
projects that harm West Virginian residents, landscapes, and resources.
Article II: Membership
Section 1: Eligibility
Membership in WATI shall be open to any individual or organization that supports its mission.
Section 2: Rights and Responsibilities
Members may participate in meetings, vote on key organizational decisions, serve on
committees, and contribute to advocacy efforts.
Section 3: Removal of Members
A member may be removed by a majority vote of the Board of Directors if their actions conflict
with the organization's mission or integrity.
Article III: Board of Directors
Section 1: Composition
The Board of Directors shall consist of the following officers:
 President

 Vice President
 Treasurer
 Secretary
Section 2: Duties of Officers
President – Serves as the chief executive officer, presides over meetings, and ensures the
implementation of the organization’s objectives. Vice President – Assists the President and
assumes responsibilities in their absence. Treasurer – Manages finances, maintains records, and
prepares financial reports. Secretary – Keeps minutes of meetings, maintains organizational
records, and coordinates communication.
Section 3: Terms and Elections
Each officer shall serve a two-year term and may be re-elected. Elections shall be held annually,
with nominations presented to the membership prior to voting.
Section 4: Removal and Vacancies
An officer may be removed by a two-thirds majority vote of the Board. In case of a vacancy, an
interim officer may be appointed until a formal election is held.
Article IV: Committees
The organization shall establish six standing committees to oversee specific aspects of its
operations:
1. Legal Affairs Committee – Reviews legal strategies and ensures compliance with
regulations.
2. Public Relations Committee – Manages communication efforts, media outreach, and
community engagement.
3. Government Relations Committee – Engages with policymakers and tracks legislative
developments.
4. Fundraising Committee – Develops financial resources to sustain WATI’s activities.
5. Social Media Committee – Manages WATI’s digital presence and grassroots
mobilization.
6. Research Committee – Conducts studies on the impact of transmission projects and
provides data-driven insights.
Each committee shall be chaired by a member appointed by the Board.
Article V: Meetings
Section 1: Regular Meetings

Regular meetings shall be held at least quarterly, with dates determined by the Board.
Section 2: Special Meetings
Special meetings may be called by the President or by a majority of the Board.
Section 3: Quorum
A quorum for official meetings shall consist of a majority of the Board members.
Article VI: Financial Management
Section 1: Fiscal Year
The fiscal year shall align with the calendar year.
Section 2: Financial Oversight
The Treasurer shall ensure the responsible management of funds, maintain accurate financial
records, and report financial status at each Board meeting.
Section 3: Fundraising and Expenditures
The Fundraising Committee shall oversee revenue generation, and all expenditures shall require
Board approval.
Article VII: Amendments
These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the Board, with proposed changes
presented in writing prior to voting.