Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Voting Procedure topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Solicitor says abstentions did not negate voting majority on several permit votes
Summary
After abstentions on pending-signature items, Borough Solicitor Wright told council members May 27 that the approvals carried because they were passed by a majority of members present; council proceeded to finalize event and signage approvals.
When several event and signage items drew abstentions during roll call, Council President James asked Borough Solicitor Wright whether a valid quorum remained for votes. Solicitor Wright advised that the votes stood: "[The] vote was sufficient because it was passed by the majority of members present," according to the meeting minutes.
The clarification applied specifically to items where abstentions were recorded for the Panther Prowl permits and signage approvals; the council proceeded to approve the Garden Tour signage and to record the Panther Prowl applications as pending insurance. The solicitor's statement ensured that council business could be completed despite selective abstentions.
Why it matters: Legal confirmation that a simple majority of members present constitutes a valid action removes procedural uncertainty when members abstain and helps organizers know whether permits are finalized or remain pending.
