Minutes of the Governance and Policy Committee, March 12, 2001

Attending: Lee Miller, Sally Fox, Ray Mielbrecht, Nota Lucas, and Rich
Chwaszczewski.

Meeting called to order at 7:20 pm.

Discussed role of Rules and Governance Committee with respect to consideration of bylaws amendments. Determined that committee should be objective and impartial. Analysis of amendments, statements in favor of or in opposition to amendments, should be related to the procedural effects of the amendments. The committee should not take a position on the merit of an amendment. The merits of an amendment or its desirability should be a matter for debate at the general meeting.

The Committee reviewed three proposed changes to the Vashon-Maury Island Community Council Bylaws in order to prepare a report for the Executive Board. The report would also serve as a handout for the next general meeting. The proposed amendments will be voted on at the Council’s General Meeting in April 2001.

Discussed the proposal to remove the Social Services Committee as a Standing Committee. Prepared statements pro and con.

Discussed the motion to amend Article IV Section 6 of the by-laws to redefine the Robert’s Rules of Order version for the purpose of finding a version that is readily available. The Committee did not have the motion as offered. After a few phone calls, the Committee established that the Executive Board (and the maker of the motion) was asking the Committee to recommend an appropriate version in time for the April 2001 vote. Prepared statements pro and con. After a few recommendations, left selection of the version to the chair.

Discussed the motion to add the Community Diversity Committee as a Standing Committee. Prepared statements pro and con. Acknowledged that the debate on this topic would be spirited, but attempted to make objective statements about the procedural changes.

Committee elected Rich Chwaszczewski as chair.

Meeting adjourned at 9:05 pm.