How does Sunnyside Village Cohousing organize and govern itself? — Cohousing Corner, February 2026
Every cohousing community needs a way to make decisions and resolve conflicts. When shared spaces are communally-owned and group cooperation is central to daily living, it's essential to have a system of self-governance that gives members a voice in decision-making.
The model that Sunnyside Village follows is called sociocracy.
What does sociocracy look like?
Sociocracy is a rich, comprehensive governance system featuring shared power and self-management.
Here’s how it works:
Decision-making authority is spread into teams of people that we call circles.
Most circles use rounds—the practice of talking one by one—in their meetings to ensure that everyone has a chance to share their views and be heard.
The decision-making method for circles is consent. That means a decision is made when no circle member objects to a decision. One objects when a decision negatively impacts how the circle can achieve its shared aim.
Consent does not require full agreement or preference of a group. We ask the question: “Is it within your range of tolerance?” meaning that a proposal may not be your favorite but you can live with the decision. This allows for decisions to be made more easily, allowing circles to work more effectively and satisfy the largest number of people.
Circle members may have defined roles to make sure all functions of their circle are executed.
If no one objects, a decision is adopted, and the most important ritual is celebrating the decision!
Examples of circles at Sunnyside Village are:
General Circle: Oversees the whole community and connects all other circles
Membership Circle: Organizes parties, social events like movie nights, or other fun group activities
Development Circle: Works with the professional consulting team to make decisions for the physical development of the community