Brian Prestwood
Premium Member
The elections are coming!!!
Below is the latest version of the MARS bylaws that I could find. They can't be changed without a vote by the membership so I'm pretty sure they are current.
If you're planning on running for office the bylaws dictate what you can and can't do. Note that the bylaws list Roberts Rules (see summary below) as the rules for conducting the board meetings.
In addition to the bylaws and Roberts Rules there is a third document that, to a lesser degree, constrains a board member's conduct. It is the articles of incorporation for the club as registered with the CA State treasurer. I found the link once before but I'm having trouble finding it again. I'll post the link here when I find it.
All of my experiences on the MARS board (VP and Webmaster) have been thoroughly enjoyable. If you enjoy helping organizations run smoothly please consider running.
==================================
THE MARINE AQUARIST ROUNDTABLE OF SACRAMENTO
Est. 1993
BYLAWS
(Revised December 17, 2004)
Article I - Establishment Name and Purpose of the Organization
Section A - The name of the organization shall be the Marine Aquarist Roundtable of Sacramento, a non-profit educational group.
Section B - The purpose of the organization shall be to promote, create and enlarge the hobby of keeping propagating appreciating and exhibiting marine organisms; to disseminate information about the above to the membership; to engage in educational activities related to our purposes; and to acquire and own such property as may be necessary for any or all of the forgoing purposes.
Article II-Membership
Section A - Any person, or persons who have an interest in marine knowledge and husbandry shall be eligible for membership. Upon receipt of an application and fee for membership the applicant(s) shall become a member of the organization in good standing. Any member may voluntarily withdraw, and may be suspended or expelled by majority vote of the membership far violations of these Bylaws or for conduct deemed detrimental to the organization.
Section B - Membership shall not be transferable, and both membership and rights to the enjoyment of property of the organization shall cease and terminate upon death, withdrawal, expulsion or other termination of membership in the organization.
Section C - Each member shall be entitled to one vote. All voting shall be done personally by members in good standing, no proxies shall be allowed
Section D - Membership fees shall be set by the Board of Governors.
Article III -Fiscal Year
The fiscal year shall be the calendar year.
Article IV â€"œ Meetings
Section A - The meeting for receiving annual reports from the Secretary and Treasurer shall be the general membership meeting in January of each year. The meeting for the installation of Officers and Governors shall be the general membership meeting in December of the election year.
Section B - The general meetings of the membership shall be held monthly at a time and place to be determined by the Board of Directors. A change in the established date, time and location of the general membership meeting may be made upon notice to the membership of such change.
Section C - Special meetings of the membership may be called by the president of the Organization, a majority of the organization's Officers and/or Governors, or by a special request submitted to the President by at least five (5) duly qualified members. The President must set a date, time, and location of such meetings, subject to the approval of a majority of the members of the organization’s Officers and/or Governors and written notice to the membership at least three (3) days in advance of such meetings. If a majority of members are in attendance, any business normally done at any general membership meeting may be transacted. Notice of special meetings must also include a summary of de business items to be acted upon.
Section D - The members present at any general membership meeting shall constitute a quorum.
Article V - Board of Governors
Section A - The Board of Governors shall consist of the Officers and Governors of the organization who are elected every other year. In the event a Board member resigns op is removed, the remaining Officers and Governors, even if less than a quorum of the Board remains, shall fill the vacancy or vacancies for the unexpired term(s) by appointment.
Section B - Meetings of the Board of Governors shall he held prior to the general membership meeting of the organization at a time and place determined by the President. Special meetings of the Board of Governors may be called by the President, the Vice President, or by notice signed by a majority of the Governors and notice given to the board members not less than one (1) day prior to such meeting. Special meetings may be held at any time or place agreed upon by a majority of the Board.
Section C - A majority of the duly elected or appointed members of the Board of Governors shall constitute a quorum.
Article VI â€"œ Officers
Section A - The Officers of the organization shall be the president, Vice President, Treasurer; Secretary, Public Relations, Webmaster and Librarian, all elected by the members of the organization for a two year term. Nothing in this section shall preclude any Officer from serving more than one consecutive term, providing he or she is nominated by the nominating committee or from the floor.
Section B - A vacancy in any Officer position shall be filled by appointment of the President from among members of the Board for the unexpired term.
Section C â€"œ Absentees of Officers in excess of two (2) meetings per calendar year may, upon a vote of the Board of Governors, constitute a vacancy in that position and require appointment as outlined in Article VI, Section B.
Article VII â€"œ Election of Officers and Governors
Section A - Election of Officers and Governors shall be held every odd numbered year.
Section B Candidates for election to either an Officer, or Board of Governors position, or any person being considered for appointment to an open Board of Governors position must have been a member in good standing for a period of at least six (6) months.
Section C - The President must appoint a nominating committee at the October board meeting of an Election year, comprised of not less than three (3) members including a Chairperson of that committee. This committee shall meet and select candidates for the Officers and Governors to be presented to the membership at the November general membership meeting.
At the November general membership meeting, the chairperson shall present the candidates to the membership. The President shall call for nominations from the floor. If there are no opposing candidates from those presented by the nominating committee, a vote shall take place. If there is more than one candidate for any of the offices, voting shall take place during the December general membership meeting. Nominations from the floor, if any, shall be made by persons who have been members in good standing for a period of at least six (6) months.
Section D - Voting may be verbal, by hand, or by secret ballot, but if two or more candidates are nominated, the vote shall be made by secret ballot. The candidate with the highest number of votes shall be declared elected by the President. In the event of a tie, the President shall call for another vote (run-off) until one person is elected.
Article VIII - Duties of the Officers
President
The President shall be responsible for the overall operation of the organization. The President shall chair the monthly general membership meetings, and Board of Governors meetings, and shall appoint all select committees, with or without assistance from the other Officers.
The President shall call special meetings of the organization, committee meetings, Board of Governors meetings, and any other meetings, which may be deemed necessary but not the monthly general membership meetings.
The President shall determine the location of such meetings. In case of any questions on demeanor while in office, the President shall be further governed by Robert’s Rules of Order.
Vice-President
In the absence of the President, the Vice President shall chair the monthly general membership meeting, and the Board of Governors meeting. The Vice President shall be the Program Coordinator for the monthly general membership meeting of the organization.
Treasurer
The Treasurer shall keep the financial books of the organization, which shall include tracking all income and expenditures. The Treasurer shall provide a monthly report at each board meeting, and shall submit a budget for the coming year at the January Board of Governors meeting.
The Treasurer shall pay any pre-determined amounts as may have been authorized by the Board, and all bills presented to, and approved by majority vote at a Board of Governors meeting. The Treasurer shall prepare and submit all reports required by any governmental agency.
Secretary
The Secretary shall record the minutes of each meeting of the monthly general membership meeting, and the Board of Governors. The secretary shall process new and renewal membership applications and maintain a roster of all members of the organization.
Public Relations
Public Relations shall develop a working relationship with various retailers in the area which is mutually beneficial to both groups. Public Relations shall contact various manufacturers and offer our assistance in testing various products related to the hobby. Public Relations shall also purchase goods from a monthly budget and solicit donations on behalf of the organization for the purpose of monthly raffles.
Webmaster
The Webmaster shall create and maintain the club’s website for purposes of promoting the organization and informing the public and general membership of news, announcements and information on upcoming events.
Librarian
The Librarian shall be in charge of the organization's library, and shall make library books, booklets, magazines and videos, if any, available for the benefit of the membership at all general membership meetings. The Librarian shall develop procedures for members to check out materials, and be responsible for contacting members who have not returned borrowed materials on a timely basis.
Governors
The Governors shall work with the Officers in developing long term goals and administering the programs, and activities of the organization. Governors oversee various committees as designated by the President.
Article IX - Committees
There shall be both standing (permanent committees created by the Board) and select committees. All committees other than standing shall be created by the President as the need arises. All committee chairpersons shall keep a record of the proceedings and actions of their respective committees for historical purposes and to assist successive committee chairpersons.
Article X - Approval and Amendments to the Bylaws
These bylaws shall be approved, and may be amended, by a vote of more than 50 percent of the members present at any general meeting of the membership, provided proper notice of said meeting is given in writing as specified in these Bylaws. Proposals for amendments to the Bylaws may be instituted by either the Board of Governors, or at least ten (10) members.
Article XI - Property Rights of Members
The property of this organization shall he irrevocably dedicated to the objects and purposes of the organization as outlined in Article 1, Section B of the Bylaws. In the event of the dissolution of the organization, all properties and moneys shall not revert to the possession of the membership, but shall be donated to any educational group which has an interest in the marine hobby. No part of any net earnings or assets of the organization shall inure to the benefit of any member or individual.
Article XII -•Parliamentary Authority•
Robert's Rules of Orders (revised) shall govern all proceedings of this organization, providing they are not in conflict with the Bylaws of the organization.
==================================
Introduction to Robert's Rules of Order
What Is Parliamentary Procedure?
It is a set of rules for conduct at meetings, that allows everyone to be heard and to make decisions without confusion.
Why is Parliamentary Procedure Important?
Because it's a time tested method of conducting business at meetings and public gatherings. It can be adapted to fit the needs of any organization. Today, Robert's Rules of Order newly revised is the basic handbook of operation for most clubs, organizations and other groups. So it's important that everyone know these basic rules!
Organizations using parliamentary procedure usually follow a fixed order of business. Below is a typical example:
1. Call to order.
2. Roll call of members present.
3. Reading of minutes of last meeting.
4. Officers reports.
5. Committee reports.
6. Special orders --- Important business previously designated for consideration at this meeting.
7. Unfinished business.
8. New business.
9. Announcements.
10. Adjournment.
The method used by members to express themselves is in the form of moving motions. A motion is a proposal that the entire membership take action or a stand on an issue. Individual members can:
1. Call to order.
2. Second motions.
3. Debate motions.
4. Vote on motions.
There are four Basic Types of Motions:
1. Main Motions: The purpose of a main motion is to introduce items to the membership for their consideration. They cannot be made when any other motion is on the floor, and yield to privileged, subsidiary, and incidental motions.
2. Subsidiary Motions: Their purpose is to change or affect how a main motion is handled, and is voted on before a main motion.
3. Privileged Motions: Their purpose is to bring up items that are urgent about special or important matters unrelated to pending business.
4. Incidental Motions: Their purpose is to provide a means of questioning procedure concerning other motions and must be considered before the other motion.
How are Motions Presented?
1. Obtaining the floor
a. Wait until the last speaker has finished.
b. Rise and address the Chairman by saying, "Mr. Chairman, or Mr. President."
c. Wait until the Chairman recognizes you.
2. Make Your Motion
a. Speak in a clear and concise manner.
b. Always state a motion affirmatively. Say, "I move that we ..." rather than, "I move that we do not ...".
c. Avoid personalities and stay on your subject.
3. Wait for Someone to Second Your Motion
4. Another member will second your motion or the Chairman will call for a second.
5. If there is no second to your motion it is lost.
6. The Chairman States Your Motion
a. The Chairman will say, "it has been moved and seconded that we ..." Thus placing your motion before the membership for consideration and action.
b. The membership then either debates your motion, or may move directly to a vote.
c. Once your motion is presented to the membership by the chairman it becomes "assembly property", and cannot be changed by you without the consent of the members.
7. Expanding on Your Motion
a. The time for you to speak in favor of your motion is at this point in time, rather than at the time you present it.
b. The mover is always allowed to speak first.
c. All comments and debate must be directed to the chairman.
d. Keep to the time limit for speaking that has been established.
e. The mover may speak again only after other speakers are finished, unless called upon by the Chairman.
8. Putting the Question to the Membership
a. The Chairman asks, "Are you ready to vote on the question?"
b. If there is no more discussion, a vote is taken.
c. On a motion to move the previous question may be adapted.
Voting on a Motion:
The method of vote on any motion depends on the situation and the by-laws of policy of your organization. There are five methods used to vote by most organizations, they are:
1. By Voice -- The Chairman asks those in favor to say, "aye", those opposed to say "no". Any member may move for a exact count.
2. By Roll Call -- Each member answers "yes" or "no" as his name is called. This method is used when a record of each person's vote is required.
3. By General Consent -- When a motion is not likely to be opposed, the Chairman says, "if there is no objection ..." The membership shows agreement by their silence, however if one member says, "I object," the item must be put to a vote.
4. By Division -- This is a slight verification of a voice vote. It does not require a count unless the chairman so desires. Members raise their hands or stand.
5. By Ballot -- Members write their vote on a slip of paper, this method is used when secrecy is desired.
There are two other motions that are commonly used that relate to voting.
1. Motion to Table -- This motion is often used in the attempt to "kill" a motion. The option is always present, however, to "take from the table", for reconsideration by the membership.
2. Motion to Postpone Indefinitely -- This is often used as a means of parliamentary strategy and allows opponents of motion to test their strength without an actual vote being taken. Also, debate is once again open on the main motion.
Parliamentary Procedure is the best way to get things done at your meetings. But, it will only work if you use it properly.
1. Allow motions that are in order.
2. Have members obtain the floor properly.
3. Speak clearly and concisely.
4. Obey the rules of debate.
5. Most importantly, BE COURTEOUS.
Below is the latest version of the MARS bylaws that I could find. They can't be changed without a vote by the membership so I'm pretty sure they are current.
If you're planning on running for office the bylaws dictate what you can and can't do. Note that the bylaws list Roberts Rules (see summary below) as the rules for conducting the board meetings.
In addition to the bylaws and Roberts Rules there is a third document that, to a lesser degree, constrains a board member's conduct. It is the articles of incorporation for the club as registered with the CA State treasurer. I found the link once before but I'm having trouble finding it again. I'll post the link here when I find it.
All of my experiences on the MARS board (VP and Webmaster) have been thoroughly enjoyable. If you enjoy helping organizations run smoothly please consider running.
==================================
THE MARINE AQUARIST ROUNDTABLE OF SACRAMENTO
Est. 1993
BYLAWS
(Revised December 17, 2004)
Article I - Establishment Name and Purpose of the Organization
Section A - The name of the organization shall be the Marine Aquarist Roundtable of Sacramento, a non-profit educational group.
Section B - The purpose of the organization shall be to promote, create and enlarge the hobby of keeping propagating appreciating and exhibiting marine organisms; to disseminate information about the above to the membership; to engage in educational activities related to our purposes; and to acquire and own such property as may be necessary for any or all of the forgoing purposes.
Article II-Membership
Section A - Any person, or persons who have an interest in marine knowledge and husbandry shall be eligible for membership. Upon receipt of an application and fee for membership the applicant(s) shall become a member of the organization in good standing. Any member may voluntarily withdraw, and may be suspended or expelled by majority vote of the membership far violations of these Bylaws or for conduct deemed detrimental to the organization.
Section B - Membership shall not be transferable, and both membership and rights to the enjoyment of property of the organization shall cease and terminate upon death, withdrawal, expulsion or other termination of membership in the organization.
Section C - Each member shall be entitled to one vote. All voting shall be done personally by members in good standing, no proxies shall be allowed
Section D - Membership fees shall be set by the Board of Governors.
Article III -Fiscal Year
The fiscal year shall be the calendar year.
Article IV â€"œ Meetings
Section A - The meeting for receiving annual reports from the Secretary and Treasurer shall be the general membership meeting in January of each year. The meeting for the installation of Officers and Governors shall be the general membership meeting in December of the election year.
Section B - The general meetings of the membership shall be held monthly at a time and place to be determined by the Board of Directors. A change in the established date, time and location of the general membership meeting may be made upon notice to the membership of such change.
Section C - Special meetings of the membership may be called by the president of the Organization, a majority of the organization's Officers and/or Governors, or by a special request submitted to the President by at least five (5) duly qualified members. The President must set a date, time, and location of such meetings, subject to the approval of a majority of the members of the organization’s Officers and/or Governors and written notice to the membership at least three (3) days in advance of such meetings. If a majority of members are in attendance, any business normally done at any general membership meeting may be transacted. Notice of special meetings must also include a summary of de business items to be acted upon.
Section D - The members present at any general membership meeting shall constitute a quorum.
Article V - Board of Governors
Section A - The Board of Governors shall consist of the Officers and Governors of the organization who are elected every other year. In the event a Board member resigns op is removed, the remaining Officers and Governors, even if less than a quorum of the Board remains, shall fill the vacancy or vacancies for the unexpired term(s) by appointment.
Section B - Meetings of the Board of Governors shall he held prior to the general membership meeting of the organization at a time and place determined by the President. Special meetings of the Board of Governors may be called by the President, the Vice President, or by notice signed by a majority of the Governors and notice given to the board members not less than one (1) day prior to such meeting. Special meetings may be held at any time or place agreed upon by a majority of the Board.
Section C - A majority of the duly elected or appointed members of the Board of Governors shall constitute a quorum.
Article VI â€"œ Officers
Section A - The Officers of the organization shall be the president, Vice President, Treasurer; Secretary, Public Relations, Webmaster and Librarian, all elected by the members of the organization for a two year term. Nothing in this section shall preclude any Officer from serving more than one consecutive term, providing he or she is nominated by the nominating committee or from the floor.
Section B - A vacancy in any Officer position shall be filled by appointment of the President from among members of the Board for the unexpired term.
Section C â€"œ Absentees of Officers in excess of two (2) meetings per calendar year may, upon a vote of the Board of Governors, constitute a vacancy in that position and require appointment as outlined in Article VI, Section B.
Article VII â€"œ Election of Officers and Governors
Section A - Election of Officers and Governors shall be held every odd numbered year.
Section B Candidates for election to either an Officer, or Board of Governors position, or any person being considered for appointment to an open Board of Governors position must have been a member in good standing for a period of at least six (6) months.
Section C - The President must appoint a nominating committee at the October board meeting of an Election year, comprised of not less than three (3) members including a Chairperson of that committee. This committee shall meet and select candidates for the Officers and Governors to be presented to the membership at the November general membership meeting.
At the November general membership meeting, the chairperson shall present the candidates to the membership. The President shall call for nominations from the floor. If there are no opposing candidates from those presented by the nominating committee, a vote shall take place. If there is more than one candidate for any of the offices, voting shall take place during the December general membership meeting. Nominations from the floor, if any, shall be made by persons who have been members in good standing for a period of at least six (6) months.
Section D - Voting may be verbal, by hand, or by secret ballot, but if two or more candidates are nominated, the vote shall be made by secret ballot. The candidate with the highest number of votes shall be declared elected by the President. In the event of a tie, the President shall call for another vote (run-off) until one person is elected.
Article VIII - Duties of the Officers
President
The President shall be responsible for the overall operation of the organization. The President shall chair the monthly general membership meetings, and Board of Governors meetings, and shall appoint all select committees, with or without assistance from the other Officers.
The President shall call special meetings of the organization, committee meetings, Board of Governors meetings, and any other meetings, which may be deemed necessary but not the monthly general membership meetings.
The President shall determine the location of such meetings. In case of any questions on demeanor while in office, the President shall be further governed by Robert’s Rules of Order.
Vice-President
In the absence of the President, the Vice President shall chair the monthly general membership meeting, and the Board of Governors meeting. The Vice President shall be the Program Coordinator for the monthly general membership meeting of the organization.
Treasurer
The Treasurer shall keep the financial books of the organization, which shall include tracking all income and expenditures. The Treasurer shall provide a monthly report at each board meeting, and shall submit a budget for the coming year at the January Board of Governors meeting.
The Treasurer shall pay any pre-determined amounts as may have been authorized by the Board, and all bills presented to, and approved by majority vote at a Board of Governors meeting. The Treasurer shall prepare and submit all reports required by any governmental agency.
Secretary
The Secretary shall record the minutes of each meeting of the monthly general membership meeting, and the Board of Governors. The secretary shall process new and renewal membership applications and maintain a roster of all members of the organization.
Public Relations
Public Relations shall develop a working relationship with various retailers in the area which is mutually beneficial to both groups. Public Relations shall contact various manufacturers and offer our assistance in testing various products related to the hobby. Public Relations shall also purchase goods from a monthly budget and solicit donations on behalf of the organization for the purpose of monthly raffles.
Webmaster
The Webmaster shall create and maintain the club’s website for purposes of promoting the organization and informing the public and general membership of news, announcements and information on upcoming events.
Librarian
The Librarian shall be in charge of the organization's library, and shall make library books, booklets, magazines and videos, if any, available for the benefit of the membership at all general membership meetings. The Librarian shall develop procedures for members to check out materials, and be responsible for contacting members who have not returned borrowed materials on a timely basis.
Governors
The Governors shall work with the Officers in developing long term goals and administering the programs, and activities of the organization. Governors oversee various committees as designated by the President.
Article IX - Committees
There shall be both standing (permanent committees created by the Board) and select committees. All committees other than standing shall be created by the President as the need arises. All committee chairpersons shall keep a record of the proceedings and actions of their respective committees for historical purposes and to assist successive committee chairpersons.
Article X - Approval and Amendments to the Bylaws
These bylaws shall be approved, and may be amended, by a vote of more than 50 percent of the members present at any general meeting of the membership, provided proper notice of said meeting is given in writing as specified in these Bylaws. Proposals for amendments to the Bylaws may be instituted by either the Board of Governors, or at least ten (10) members.
Article XI - Property Rights of Members
The property of this organization shall he irrevocably dedicated to the objects and purposes of the organization as outlined in Article 1, Section B of the Bylaws. In the event of the dissolution of the organization, all properties and moneys shall not revert to the possession of the membership, but shall be donated to any educational group which has an interest in the marine hobby. No part of any net earnings or assets of the organization shall inure to the benefit of any member or individual.
Article XII -•Parliamentary Authority•
Robert's Rules of Orders (revised) shall govern all proceedings of this organization, providing they are not in conflict with the Bylaws of the organization.
==================================
Introduction to Robert's Rules of Order
What Is Parliamentary Procedure?
It is a set of rules for conduct at meetings, that allows everyone to be heard and to make decisions without confusion.
Why is Parliamentary Procedure Important?
Because it's a time tested method of conducting business at meetings and public gatherings. It can be adapted to fit the needs of any organization. Today, Robert's Rules of Order newly revised is the basic handbook of operation for most clubs, organizations and other groups. So it's important that everyone know these basic rules!
Organizations using parliamentary procedure usually follow a fixed order of business. Below is a typical example:
1. Call to order.
2. Roll call of members present.
3. Reading of minutes of last meeting.
4. Officers reports.
5. Committee reports.
6. Special orders --- Important business previously designated for consideration at this meeting.
7. Unfinished business.
8. New business.
9. Announcements.
10. Adjournment.
The method used by members to express themselves is in the form of moving motions. A motion is a proposal that the entire membership take action or a stand on an issue. Individual members can:
1. Call to order.
2. Second motions.
3. Debate motions.
4. Vote on motions.
There are four Basic Types of Motions:
1. Main Motions: The purpose of a main motion is to introduce items to the membership for their consideration. They cannot be made when any other motion is on the floor, and yield to privileged, subsidiary, and incidental motions.
2. Subsidiary Motions: Their purpose is to change or affect how a main motion is handled, and is voted on before a main motion.
3. Privileged Motions: Their purpose is to bring up items that are urgent about special or important matters unrelated to pending business.
4. Incidental Motions: Their purpose is to provide a means of questioning procedure concerning other motions and must be considered before the other motion.
How are Motions Presented?
1. Obtaining the floor
a. Wait until the last speaker has finished.
b. Rise and address the Chairman by saying, "Mr. Chairman, or Mr. President."
c. Wait until the Chairman recognizes you.
2. Make Your Motion
a. Speak in a clear and concise manner.
b. Always state a motion affirmatively. Say, "I move that we ..." rather than, "I move that we do not ...".
c. Avoid personalities and stay on your subject.
3. Wait for Someone to Second Your Motion
4. Another member will second your motion or the Chairman will call for a second.
5. If there is no second to your motion it is lost.
6. The Chairman States Your Motion
a. The Chairman will say, "it has been moved and seconded that we ..." Thus placing your motion before the membership for consideration and action.
b. The membership then either debates your motion, or may move directly to a vote.
c. Once your motion is presented to the membership by the chairman it becomes "assembly property", and cannot be changed by you without the consent of the members.
7. Expanding on Your Motion
a. The time for you to speak in favor of your motion is at this point in time, rather than at the time you present it.
b. The mover is always allowed to speak first.
c. All comments and debate must be directed to the chairman.
d. Keep to the time limit for speaking that has been established.
e. The mover may speak again only after other speakers are finished, unless called upon by the Chairman.
8. Putting the Question to the Membership
a. The Chairman asks, "Are you ready to vote on the question?"
b. If there is no more discussion, a vote is taken.
c. On a motion to move the previous question may be adapted.
Voting on a Motion:
The method of vote on any motion depends on the situation and the by-laws of policy of your organization. There are five methods used to vote by most organizations, they are:
1. By Voice -- The Chairman asks those in favor to say, "aye", those opposed to say "no". Any member may move for a exact count.
2. By Roll Call -- Each member answers "yes" or "no" as his name is called. This method is used when a record of each person's vote is required.
3. By General Consent -- When a motion is not likely to be opposed, the Chairman says, "if there is no objection ..." The membership shows agreement by their silence, however if one member says, "I object," the item must be put to a vote.
4. By Division -- This is a slight verification of a voice vote. It does not require a count unless the chairman so desires. Members raise their hands or stand.
5. By Ballot -- Members write their vote on a slip of paper, this method is used when secrecy is desired.
There are two other motions that are commonly used that relate to voting.
1. Motion to Table -- This motion is often used in the attempt to "kill" a motion. The option is always present, however, to "take from the table", for reconsideration by the membership.
2. Motion to Postpone Indefinitely -- This is often used as a means of parliamentary strategy and allows opponents of motion to test their strength without an actual vote being taken. Also, debate is once again open on the main motion.
Parliamentary Procedure is the best way to get things done at your meetings. But, it will only work if you use it properly.
1. Allow motions that are in order.
2. Have members obtain the floor properly.
3. Speak clearly and concisely.
4. Obey the rules of debate.
5. Most importantly, BE COURTEOUS.
