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Board explains unanimity rule when members absent; applicants may request special meeting
Summary
Board members and staff explained that, because the board was not at full strength, a unanimous vote would be required for items to pass tonight; applicants were offered the option to wait for the full board or request a special meeting subject to a 10-day notice requirement.
During the meeting a staff member explained the board’s practice when a member is absent: with the membership short, items require unanimity among those present to pass. The chair repeatedly offered applicants the option to postpone or request a special meeting rather than proceed when unanimous approval would be required.
The staff member summarized: "You need a unanimous vote to prevail this evening," and added that if applicants preferred they could return when the full board is present or ask staff to schedule a special meeting subject to notice requirements. Board members and staff noted the special-meeting option could be scheduled sooner than the next regular meeting if members’ availability and the 10-day notice requirement allow it. Several applicants elected to take up the offer to table rather than proceed under a unanimity requirement.
