Council Procedures & Meeting Management Flashcards

Under Robert's Rules of Order, what is the purpose of a 'point of order'?

Answer: To call attention to a violation of rules or procedures

A point of order is raised to alert the presiding officer that a rule or procedure is being violated.

Which type of council meeting requires public notice but is limited to a specific announced topic?

Answer: Special meeting

Special meetings are called for a specific purpose and the agenda is limited to that announced topic.

A council member who has a financial interest in a contract being voted on should:

Answer: Abstain and recuse themselves from the vote

Council members with a conflict of interest must recuse themselves and abstain from voting to avoid ethical violations.

What does it mean to 'table' a motion in American parliamentary procedure?

Answer: To temporarily set aside the motion for later consideration

In American usage, tabling a motion temporarily suspends its consideration so the body can attend to other business.

What is the minimum notice period most states require for a regular public meeting agenda to be posted?

Answer: 48 hours

Most state open meetings laws require agenda posting at least 48 hours before a regular meeting, though requirements vary.

Which procedural motion allows the council to revisit a vote taken at the same meeting?

Answer: Motion to reconsider

A motion to reconsider allows the council to revisit a decision made at the same or immediately preceding meeting.

During a public hearing on a zoning ordinance, a council member's role is best described as:

Answer: Impartial decision-maker who listens to all testimony

Council members must act as impartial quasi-judicial decision-makers during public hearings, weighing evidence from all parties.