The Rising Trend of Points of Order Misuse in Brookfield Public Assemblies
BROOKFIELD — In a democratic society, the role of rules in facilitating public debate is invaluable. But concerns are mounting in Brookfield over the improper use of points of order, based on Robert’s Rules of Order, during public meetings.
Understanding Robert’s Rules of Order
Robert’s Rules of Order provide a framework for conducting democratic meetings. The guidelines dictate protocols for various actions, from initiating a motion to voting.
The Correct Use of a Point of Order
When correctly invoked, a point of order demands immediate attention from the chair. It starts with the phrase, “I rise to a point of order,” and is followed by identifying the supposed violation. An immediate ruling from the chair is required.
Criteria for Correct Invocation
Immediate Relevance: The issue must be presently occurring.
Clarity: The specific rule in question should be cited, with context given.
Floor Respect: Only interrupt a speaker with a point of order if it is pertinent to the current procedure or conduct.
How to Handle Misuse
In instances of misuse:
- The chair should declare the point “out of order.”
- If the chair fails to act, another point of order can highlight the improper usage.
Case Studies on Misuse
Board of Health: In recent meetings, the Board of Health has experienced instances where points of order were exploited to stifle opposing views and introduce irrelevant personal biases, thus lengthening meetings and compromising their efficacy.
Town Meetings Similarly, town meetings have been plagued by attendees using points of order to air personal issues, thereby causing unnecessary delays.
Select Board Meeting: A Case in Point During a recent Select Board meeting, an egregious instance came to light. A board member, while making a motion, was interrupted by a point of order from a member of the public. It was evident that the point was being raised not to correct procedure but to introduce personal opinions.
How It Was Handled The board member swiftly deemed the point “out of order” and provided reasoning. Chair Mr. Regan promptly restored order, allowing the board member to complete her motion before opening the floor to public comments.
Outcome By adhering to proper protocol, Chair Mr. Regan prevented the meeting from being derailed, allowing the board member to finish her motion, thereby preserving the meeting’s integrity.
The Impact of Misuse Improper usage has multiple repercussions:
Extended Meetings: Increased duration and reduced efficiency.
Diluted Focus: Important matters may get less attention.
Democracy Jeopardized: The misuse inhibits genuine public discourse.
Public Sentiment: Anonymous Brookfield residents have expressed frustration, stating that such misuse distracts from key issues.
Conclusion: The misuse of points of order in Brookfield’s public meetings threatens not only the efficiency but also the democratic essence of local governance. While the chair has the initial responsibility to curtail such improprieties, the onus ultimately falls on the entire community to safeguard the integrity of public discourse. With the right education and increased vigilance, Brookfield can aspire to more effective, democratic public meetings, where rules serve their intended purpose of facilitating meaningful dialogue rather than hampering it.