Title
Decision Making Structure
Recommended Action
No recommendation
Report
Issue:
At the May 23 meeting Commissioners asked staff to look into the legal boundaries of how the Commission makes decisions.
Staff Contact:
Tobi Hill-Meyer, Diversity Equity Inclusion Manager, Office of Strategic Initiatives 360.753.8285
Background and Analysis:
Commissioners asked if alternative systems of decision making were an option.
The Rules of Procedure adopted by the City Council state:
3.a. Quorum
A simple majority of the committee members are required to be present at a meeting in order for the committee to conduct business and reach a decision. Meetings with less than a simple majority may be conducted; however, no official actions may be taken. If action is taken by a vote of the committee, it shall consist of a simple majority of the quorum (members present).
This means that decisions can be made by a simple majority of the quorum, but note that the majority could vote to establish an operating “rule” by which matters are decided in another manner. However, that rule would be subject to suspension by a vote of the majority.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
N/A
Options:
Decision making
• Adopt an alternative rule for decision making
• Default to decision making by majority vote and Robert’s Rules
• Table the decision
Financial Impact:
N/A
Attachments:
N/A