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Robbinsdale board splits over bylaws, special-meeting rights; legal counsel role draws sharp criticism
Summary
A lengthy dispute over whether three board members may 'call' a special meeting — and who may decide its timing and agenda — dominated the Robbinsdale Public School District board meeting, prompting motions limiting reconsideration of recent budget votes and a failed attempt to suspend part of the bylaws.
The Robbinsdale Public School District Board of Education spent the bulk of its Monday meeting arguing over the board’s bylaws, when three directors may call a special meeting and what role legal counsel may play in moderating those disputes.
The disagreement started after three directors — Director Long, Director Bassett and Director Holmes — asked the board to convene a special meeting to consider budget items, newly created positions and other matters. The chair and the board’s legal counsel advised that the bylaws do not permit three directors to set the special meeting’s time or agenda without the board’s approval, triggering hours of debate about procedure, precedent and the involvement of attorneys.
Why it matters: Board members and outside stakeholders said the outcome will affect how directors raise urgent matters between regular sessions, how the district schedules and staffs additional meetings and whether community-appointed advisory…
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