![]() For example, Texas is an open records state. Many states have sunshine laws that govern public access to governmental records (these laws are often referred to as open records laws, or public records laws). In some instances, Robert’s Rules may be in conflict with state laws that govern associations. As with everything, there are pros and cons to be considered when implementing Robert’s Rules of Order. When it doesn’t always make sense to implement every rule outlined in Robert’s Rules of Order, by taking the time to learn about parliamentary procedures can save you and your fellow board members time and frustration by ensuring that the process of governing your HOA remains democratic for all stakeholders. Because parliamentary rules are designed to enforce courtesy and fairness among members, everyone gets the opportunity to vote in the manner they feel best, and this leads to the majority vote being the decision-maker. However, it does protect the rights of individuals, absent members, and minorities. Adopting parliamentary procedure does not guarantee that votes go the way you, or the board, wanted. Let’s face it – there may times when votes simply don’t go the way you’d hoped. If your community is facing a problem and there seems to be no solution in sight, or perhaps too many options and one can’t be decided upon, then Robert’s Rules can provide the tools needed for HOA boards to reach solutions on complex issues by tackling problems in a hierarchal manner. Consensus moves the community forward.Rules such as not allowing members to speak twice about a motion until/unless all members have had the opportunity to speak ensures that everyone in attendance has been heard and their concerns or opinions taken seriously. By implementing Robert’s Rules of Order, you can ensure that all members are heard equally. You’ve likely heard the age-old expression, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease.” Well, not so much when you’re abiding by parliamentary procedure! When members are passionate about a subject, others may feel intimidated or unheard. A group facilitator ensures that there is one person in charge of motions and that they are handled in an efficient and concise manner. By electing one individual to maintain order during meetings, the board can ensure that responsibility is taken for creating equality, justice, and impartiality in meetings. It may feel a bit foreign to apply rules to a discussion, but it’s important to limit member-to-member talk and address all statement to the assigned chair. Discussions are directed and facilitated.To save you the time of reading entire books written on the subject, we’ll break it down here: There are four basic principles that are adhered to when using parliamentary procedure. Think of it as democracy in action! Basic Principles of Parliamentary Procedure Robert’s Rules ensure the rule of majority and protects the rights of absent and minority members. By addressing one item at a time in a procedural manner, the board is able to act with impartiality and justice while promoting a courteous environment. Parliamentary procedure enables members to conduct business in an efficient and orderly manner. As a board member, you have multiple obligations and roles to fulfill, and by implementing Robert’s Rules, you can increase efficiency when it comes to your HOA meetings while also maintaining equity and fairness for all members. Written by Civil War veteran General Henry Robert in 1876, and having stood the test of time, Robert’s Rules of Order is a popular book on parliamentary procedures that lays out the basic principles that all groups can use to streamline the decision-making process. Meant to provide governing bodies procedural rules to run meetings in an orderly fashion, Robert’s Rules of Order have been in use for over a century, and they can be an invaluable tool for conducting official HOA business. In fact, some associations require that Robert’s Rules be implemented, as stated in their governing documents. That is why it’s important to implement Robert’s Rules of Order for your HOA meetings! Have you ever attended an HOA meeting that didn’t seem to achieve the predetermined goals presented on the agenda? There’s nothing more frustrating than a board meeting that didn’t go so well! When any amount of people get together to discuss important business, there are bound to be differing opinions or some difficulty staying on task. ![]()
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