Governor Mikie Sherrill

NJ Geospatial Forum

Bylaws

New Jersey Geospatial Forum Bylaws

(Adopted by the New Jersey Geospatial Forum on September 21, 2026)

Purpose

The New Jersey Geospatial Forum (NJGF) exists to:

  • Stimulate and encourage the advancement of a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to the planning, design, operation, and use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related technologies that support public and private information providers, stewards, and users in New Jersey.
  • Provide a welcoming forum for communication and coordination across organizations, promoting collaboration and helping the Community make the most of limited resources.
  • Offer a structured environment for volunteers to work together on shared objectives, including active problem solving through Task Forces.
  • Support professional and educational growth by creating opportunities to exchange knowledge and experience.
  • Provide a pathway for members to discuss, review, and reach consensus on GIS policies and standards relevant to New Jersey's spatial data infrastructure.
Membership

Membership shall be open to individuals that share a common interest in geographic information and technology in New Jersey. There are no fees for membership. Members must provide current contact information.

Executive Committee (EC)

The Executive Committee serves as the leadership body of the Forum. The EC Meeting Schedule will be set annually by the EC.

Composition of the EC
  • The EC may have up to 7 members and should have no fewer than 5.
  • Vacant seats are acceptable when no suitable candidate is available.
  • Required representation:
    • The State Geographic Information Officer (GIO) holds a permanent seat.
    • One representative from State government, preferably an active participant of the State Geographic Information Council (GIC).
    • One employee from County Government.
  • Optional suggested representation includes.
    • The remaining seats may be filled by individuals from groups that are often underrepresented, including:
      • Federal agencies
      • Education
      • Licensed surveyors
      • Private sector
Selection of EC Members
  • Empty seats may be nominated by existing EC members. A nomination is made with a simple email from any EC member to the Chair and the GIO, including the nominee's name and contact information.
  • The EC appoints new members through a simple majority vote.
  • If the EC does not appoint a candidate for a vacant seat, the GIO may appoint someone to fill that seat.
Qualities of EC Members
  • Willing and able to commit to a two-year term.
  • Demonstrated engagement with the Forum, such as attending meetings, contributing to discussions, leading Task Forces, or showing relevant professional experience.
  • Existing EC members select new members based on these criteria.
EC Member Terms
  • Each EC member commits to a minimum two-year term.
  • Members may continue for additional two-year terms without any limit.
  • At the end of each term, members may choose to continue or step down.
  • EC Members may be removed from the EC by a majority vote of the EC. Conduct such as chronic nonparticipation (for example, persistent no show) or behavior that is deemed to harm the reputation of the NJGF or otherwise violate NJ State employee defined ethical standards or conduct rules shall be grounds for removal. State of NJ Uniform Ethics Code: https://nj.gov/ethics/docs/ethics/2026_uniformethicscode_january.pdf
  • The Executive Committee will devise a plan to provide a phased transition to include staggered rotation of EC members.
EC Officers
  • Chairperson: Facilitates General Meetings and leads EC meetings.
  • The Chair and GIO collaborate on the agenda for EC meetings.
  • Vice Chairperson: Serves as backup facilitator. Responsible for capturing high level meeting notes for EC meetings.
  • The GIO may also serve as backup Facilitator when needed.
Administrative Support

The NJ Office of GIS of the NJ Office of Information Technology (NJOIT-OGIS) provides administrative support, including:

  • Maintaining the NJGF website.
  • Managing email lists and communications.
  • Hosting and logistics for General and EC meetings.
  • Supporting in person and virtual meeting access.
  • Recording General Meetings.
Task Forces
  • Task Forces may be created or dissolved by majority vote of the EC.
  • They are established to accomplish specific goals aligned with the Forum's mission.
  • Each Task Force must have a clear mission with well-defined and achievable objectives.
  • Each Task Force will have a Chairperson appointed by the EC.
  • The Chairperson will lead and coordinate the efforts of the Task Force.
  • Task Forces may continue as long as needed to complete their work.
  • If a Task Force is not fulfilling its mission, the EC may dissolve it.
  • Each Task Force must also have an EC Liaison, who:
    • Is a member of the EC
    • Reports Task Force activities to the EC
    • Represents the needs and interests of the Task Force to the EC
    • Works with the Task Force Chair to set mission and objectives
Forum General Meetings
  • The Forum General Meeting schedule will be set annually by the EC.
  • The EC is responsible for planning all aspects of these meetings.
  • EC members and Task Force Chairs/Liaisons will provide reports during General Meetings.
  • All Forum meetings will be open to individuals sharing a common interest in geographic information in New Jersey.
Amendments to the Bylaws
  • Amendments may be proposed by the EC.
  • Proposed changes must be submitted in writing to the Chair of the EC, along with an explanation of why the change is being recommended.
  • Amendments may be adopted by a majority vote of the EC.