§ 2.04.080. Parliamentary rules.

A.

Motions and resolutions may be disposed of by a majority vote of the city council present without a suspension of the rules.

B.

While a subject is under consideration no motion shall be entertained, except:

1.

To adjourn;

2.

To lay on table;

3.

The previous question;

4.

To postpone to a time certain;

5.

To commit;

6.

To amend;

7.

To postpone indefinitely.

These several motions shall have precedence in the order named. A motion to lay on the table is not debatable. The previous question must be seconded by three members and cuts off debate and all pending amendments, and brings the city council to a direct vote on the main question.

C.

No motion shall be entertained while a member is speaking or while the city council is voting.

D.

Every resolution must be in writing, and every motion reduced to writing, if the mayor or any member requires it. If in writing, it shall be read by the secretary; if not it shall be distinctly stated by the mayor before being debated; and when so read or stated, shall be considered as in possession of the council, but may be withdrawn before a vote by leave of the council.

E.

No amendment beyond the second degree shall be entertained, nor shall any amendment be entertained which contains matter different or not germane to that under consideration.

F.

A substitute, if adopted, takes the place of the original, and is subject to amendment in like manner.

G.

In filling blanks, the question shall first be on the highest sum or the longest time proposed.

H.

Any member may move a division of any question when the same is susceptible of division; but the question of division must be determined by a vote of the council.

I.

No member shall vote on any question in the event or determination of which he or she has a direct personal interest.

J.

Any member who voted with the majority may move a reconsideration of the vote at the same or the next succeeding meeting, and such motion, when seconded, shall have precedence over all other motions, except the privilege motions specified hereinabove.

K.

Any matter which pertains to or affects the character, reputation or official conduct of a member is a question of privilege, and may by him or her or any other member for him or her be brought to the attention of the council at any time, without regard to the order of business.

L.

Upon all points or questions, when these rules may be silent or uncertain, reference shall be had to such digest of parliamentary law as may be the standard in the State Legislature.

M.

Any of these rules may be temporarily suspended for a particular motion or object, except one which affects the rights of a member, by a two-thirds vote; but any proposition to alter or amend them shall be made in writing, lie over one meeting, and be passed by a two-thirds vote of the entire council.

(Prior code § 2-23)