are you allowed to prearrange who will second a motion in a committee meeting

[Guest Jackie]

Is it common practice to speak to board members about a motion that is being put forward and determine before the meeting that Joe will second this motion, and to say this explicity in the meeting.

[hmtcastle]

Is it common practice to speak to board members about a motion that is being put forward and determine before the meeting that Joe will second this motion, and to say this explicity in the meeting.

I doubt it's common practice but, in any event, there's no way to prevent someone from seconding the motion before Joe does. Besides, it doesn't really matter who seconds it first.

On the other hand, if you can get all the members to agree, go for it.

[jstackpo]

And besides (to make your scheming and plotting easier) seconds aren't required at all in small (<13 or so) boards and committees. P. 470 & 483

[David A Foulkes]

Is it common practice to speak to board members about a motion that is being put forward and determine before the meeting that Joe will second this motion, and to say this explicity in the meeting.

There'd be nothing wrong with pre-arranging to have a second in place, just to be sure the motion does get seconded. Often times, several members will call out "Second" at the appropriate time anyway, and all that's important in this is that at least one member does so, so that the Chair knows to continue with the consideration of the motion.

Not sure what you mean about explicitly saying this in the meeting. Don't see that it serves any purpose, so......

[Gary Novosielski]

Is it common practice to speak to board members about a motion that is being put forward and determine before the meeting that Joe will second this motion, and to say this explicity in the meeting.

There are two scenarios I can imagine--one where you're not sure anyone will second it. In that case, it's a good idea to speak to Joe and give him a heads-up that you could use a li'l help.

The other scenario is when the motion being voted on has some ceremonial or honorary importance, and there are those desirous of having the honor of moving and seconding the resolution. Perhaps the seconder might even wish to point out (briefly!) that he is particularly happy and honored to second it. There's not a whole lot wrong with prearranging who will move and second the motion in this case.

But in either case it's pretty much got to be handled informally, and in advance. There's not much point in saying anything "explicitly" about it in the meeting, that I can see.