City Council Standards and Bylaws

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law or where substantial reliance on the council's previous decision has occurred (for example, in the area of contracts or hiring/termination of employees). The appropriate language for making a motion to reconsider shall be substantially similar to "I move to rescind/repeal the council's previous action related to as stated in resolution number ." g. Motion to prevent reintroduction of an issue for months is not subject to debate. It may be used to limit discussion of an issue that has been raised and/or moved for reconsideration several previous times. The appropriate language for making a motion to prevent reintroduction shall be substantially similar to "I move to prevent reintroduction of this issue for months." h. Motion to suspend the rules or to consider a motion informally should be used sparingly on issues likely to be uncontroversial. Complex motions and resolutions should still be put in writing.This motion may permit informal discussion of an issue (such as a roundtable discussion, brainstorming session,visioning session, etc.)where appropriate. The appropriate language for making a motion to proceed informally shall be substantially similar to "I move that we suspend the rules and proceed informally in discussing the issue of 9. Resolutions and ordinances. Simple motions shall be used only for procedural and meeting matters. Substantive issues, such as the approval or disapproval of street improvement projects and contracts;the censure of councilmembers; zoning issues, and the adoption of city policies, rules,and ordinances shall be by resolution.An exception to this general rule may be made in instances where significant documentation of the council's decision exists, rendering an additional resolution repetitive (for example, where a written contract spells out all the terms that would be listed in the resolution). All resolutions shall be written and numbered in a manner consistent with the city's record keeping policies. The appropriate language for a motion for the adoption of a resolution shall be substantially similar to "I move to adopt the resolution numbered " 10. Robert's Rules not applicable.These model rules are designed specifically for Minnesota city councils. Further,these rules were drafted to be an appropriate level of regulation and formality for governing bodies typically seen in Minnesota cities. Robert's Rules of Order is not assumed to apply or to supplement these regulations. Where a situation arises that is not addressed by these rules,the intent of these rules, as expressed in the preamble, should be effectuated by the presiding officer, in consultation with the city attorney. IX. VOTING. • A. The votes of the city council will be taken by voice vote.The presiding officer shall announce the results of all votes of the council. Page 13