Motion Structure

A motion permits a decision to be made. Therefore, a motion must put forth some concrete action or actions to be taken that require a decision.

In order to be understandable to someone who was not present at the meeting, the motion must include sufficient information to enable a reader to understand the context of the motion.

Because a town hall meeting has no official legitimacy, its legitimacy will only derive from the wording of its motions. Therefore, a town hall meeting's motions must provide adequate information to be understood by others and must be convincing enough to be acted upon by those with official legitimacy.

Background

Every motion should have a preface that includes sufficient background information to make the motion and its context understandable to anyone who reads it.

Preamble

The preamble to the motion should contain a series “whereas” clauses that articulate the reasons why the motion is being presented.

Resolution

The motion itself should contain “be it resolved” clauses that articulate the actions to be taken to resolve the issues contained in the “whereas” clauses.

Example Motion

Every community should uphold its dignity by keeping its infrastructure in good repair.

Therefore: Motion 2014-001

Whereas; Bridge street is a main street in Denbigh;

and Whereas; the guard rails along Bridge street are not in good repair

now therefore be it Resolved; that the wires connecting the guard rails be repaired

and be it further Resolved; that the guard rail posts be painted

and be it further Resolved; that this motion be forwarded to the Addington Highlands Council for their consideration and action.

Moved by:

Seconded by:

In favour ___ Undecided ___ Opposed ___