Simplicity Is The Key

Rules of order should be the essence of simplicity. 

We passed the Procedure Bylaw last night after several  lengthy discussions.The rules are part of the Bylaw.

Last evening we spent more  time discussing whether  the Bylaw should be deferred than any other item  on the agenda.

Rules of order don't  relate to  anyone or anything else in the community except councillors.

They are about  preserving  civility; ensuring every councillor has equal opportunity for input, without interruption or prohibition because of time. .

They are about respect for the office we hold. The need to deal with town business in efficient and  timely manner

They do not exist for their  sake alone.

No  more than the chairs we  use; the desk; or microphones that permit voices to be heard.

We  perform in public. Hopefully, the community attends, With cable television, the opportunity presents.

How we do it. should not distract from  decisions being made.

At the same time,  debate should not be so calm, smooth  and efficient as to be tedious, boring, stuffy, bombastic and compleat with  the importance of being earnest.

It is our role  to make decisions. Nine people  participate There are obvious risks..

Unanimous agreement is not  essential.  It's not even generally desirable.

A  majority is not necessarily the right decision. It doesn't have to be. .

Democracy is the right to be wrong.

If  consequences are to be suffered and the Good Lord Knows  we have had consequences, it's best  the majority is responsible.  .

So, last night we passed the  new rules. .

Not for the purpose of catching each other in error, poking  each other with a pointy stick,harassing or embarrassing each other .

The purpose is to work together under a set of  rules that serve.

Several clauses I think will interfere with that objective.

But they are not chiselled in stone. The book is not closed. If we experience difficulties, changes can be made.

There always comes a time when everything that could be said, has been said, for the time being