An association, after making provision for the payment of dividends on the preferred stock, and before payment of dividends on the common stock, or the distribution of any patronage refund or dividend shall set aside 10 percent of the total net earnings, annually, for a reserve fund, until the reserve fund equals at least 30 percent of the paid up capital stock. The reserve fund shall be available for such purposes as are designated and authorized by the vote of two-thirds of the members of the board of directors at a duly assembled meeting of the board, subject to the limitations and conditions provided for in the bylaws of the association.

41 Del. Laws, c. 132, § ?16; 3 Del. C. 1953, § ?8536;