Village government isn’t just about passing legislation, but rather, it’s about how we can make our community stronger, together. Please take a moment to learn about how Boards and Commissions made up of Officials and Resident volunteers make life better in Timberlake for residents.
The Village of Timberlake reccomends that meetings are run by using the basic format outlined in Robert’s Rules of Order for Meetings, which provides rules and procedures that allow a deliberative assembly to make its decisions efficiently. Following the rules ensures more a fair and more achievable outcome without wasting time.
Following the Standard Order of Business
An easy way to remember the Robert’s Rules standard order of business is with the mnemonic 3R-SUN — you can see it clearly in the following list. This list is a quick reference to make it easy for you to set up a basic agenda for your meeting.
1) Reading and Approval of Minutes
2) Reports of Officers, Boards, and Standing Committees
3) Reports of Special (select and ad hoc) Committees
4) Special Orders
5) Unfinished Business and General Orders
6) New Business
Robert’s Rules of Order for Meetings Cheet Sheets
Keeping some quick reference material on hand when you prepare for or enter a meeting will ensure you have the important information you need to effectively and democratically achieve the business of the assembly.
ROBERTS RULES OF ORDER CHEAT SHEET
Focus the purpose and goals of the committee: Will they be primarily advising, implementing solutions, and how much authority does the committee have.
Make sure you are knowledgeable: Make sure to continue doing the necessary research and homework to be effective, remember to see the whole picture, and follow the law.
Engage in discussions with previous members: Aquire documents about the committee, such as what the main policies are, what meetings are scheduled, and what the committee has been doing in the past, and any decisions that were made that can be applied to future similar situations.
Preparing for a Committee Meeting
Create criteria: Look at your goals and tasks. Write out a list of skills that are needed to help fulfill those goals. What kind of talent / experience is needed.
Establish good relations with old members: If the committee is already established, it will already have members. Maintain goodwill with volunteers. Recruit new members. Establish Chairperson.