Board of Directors Meeting Thursday, May 29, 2025

Thank you FYI for the very relatable link provided. The board has “instructed members” is an administrative action that is defended against the members how? Why is an administrative action against an entire corporate entity upheld and by what evidence or standard? What legal standing does an instruction hold that can deny a member’s right to speak freely, when the topic warrants additional time?
In my opinion, I find no legal standing or basis , except for an administrative action, that the board has established “instructions” to member activity.

 

So what do you suggest as an option? Would simply prefer that they eliminate the permission in the bylaws that allows Members to comment on motions? That would IMHO only seem to drive a wedge in-between the Board and the Members even deeper?

But of course there needs to be some accommodation for the Members to express their opinions and concerns, but when all is said and done, it only the Board that decides!

Not really sure where your end-point of this conversation/issue is going? What is it that you would like to see?

 

But there is no bylaw stating any provision about limiting the amount of time a member can speak at.a meeting. The provision of managing and regulating the affairs of the corporation refers to bylaws of a corporation, of which nothing of the sort is written in regards to regular meetings of the members. Limitations of the ability to speak is not inconsistent as it is not addressed in the bylaws or the ARS.

 

What I would like to accomplish is the ability to convey a complete and comprehensive message as to action plans. Actionable items such as an instructor led training class for new directors when elected. Actionable items such items that offer member benefits such as a “welcome wagon” type group established. Action item for support of a RCSC printed newspaper/newsletter delivered to every address in Sun City. If I write the entire list here on TOSC, my fingers will cramp up. We have all spent years speaking to the needs of the corporation and the members, but no action ever comes of it. I want to see these items turned into action. I want some time to discuss these items and present in a clear and concise way, not running to the back of a line, like a child at a dodgeball game. Hope that conveys my thoughts on my desire to speak about ideas that need more than three minutes..

 

I 100% agree with that statement.

I have been harping for years that they need to document many of their rules, but they have no interest in doing so.

Just as the Corporate Documents have a listing for Board Policies, that list also needs to have a listing for Special Rules of Order. And what could some of those Special Rules be?

They seem to be functioning under their own Standard Order of Business so I would suggest writing a Special Rule that includes items that are not listed in the Standard Order of Business like listing the need to actually approve the agenda ( if an agenda has not been approved, it has no effect on the meeting other than acting as a note of reference).

How about authorizing the use of a Consent Agenda? RONR will tell you that you can only use a Consent Agenda if its authorized in the bylaws or Special Rule of Order (RONR 41:32)

A Special Rule of Order could also list the use of only those specific items listed in the Procedures in Small Boards that they want to use?

Look, I think our bylaws leave a lot to be desired. I'm looking forward to seeing what the Ad Hoc Bylaw committee comes up with. I hope they make the bylaws concentrate more on how to and the rules to conduct a meeting rather many other issues that in my opinion belong as a Board Policy!

I'm about to enter the "I don't give a shit" crowd because nothing really seems to change.

 

We have spent years speaking to a wall!

 

FYI,
This is why we need action items! We need these ideas and solutions put forth in a way that produces results. Results as in the items are implemented or are being studied with a specific response date established. The board needs to pay attention to the members and seek ways to include the ideas presented. The process changes and projects suggested are valid, and have credibility and credence to their applications. The board could lighten its load if it would allow the members to step up and provide their expertise.

 

Having been on the board previously, I understand the importance of holding onto the power and position of being a director. I understand that everything I say feels like an affront to the work they do and how they do it. I think they are overwhelmed and overworked with the various roles and duties they have responsibilities for. I know if they could loosen their grip on trying to be the boss of how things are, and allow the members to interject their expertise and knowledge into some of the tasks that can be off loaded, the board members would have a better balance of work to life, and the members would love to step up to help. The ideas need to be shared and conveyed in a manner which is understandable, with supportive ideas, reasons for consideration, and benefits gained. The board is doing a phenomenal job and am most appreciative of their service to Sun City. If the whole picture isn’t offered, the point is lost. In my opinion.