improvement of the approved resolution to reflect the true intention of the proponent

[Guest Steven V. Agraviador]

A resolution has been approved. A few months after, another person raised a question as to the full intention of the resolution since it is not provided in the title. Can the secretary make improvement to the resolution as to reflect the true intention without rescinding or recalling the resolution?

[jstackpo]

NO!

But the assembly can use the motion to "Amend Something Previously Adopted" - p. 305 ff. - to propose changes in wording to the original motion so as to clarify the intent.

Who knows, you may be surprised...

[Chris Harrison]

No. Nothing in RONR grants him the authority to unilaterally change a motion. See RONR pp. 305-310 if you all really think that it is necessary to include the intent.

[Tim Wynn]

A resolution has been approved. A few months after, another person raised a question as to the full intention of the resolution since it is not provided in the title. Can the secretary make improvement to the resolution as to reflect the true intention without rescinding or recalling the resolution?

In general, an adopted resolution can only be improved or worsened by the body that adopted it.

However, just for completeness and to add a little confusion, the assembly can authorize the secretary or another individual or body to make technical and conforming changes to reflect the intent of the society in a particular matter, as illustrated in RONR (11th ed.), p. 599. But this only refers to changes that cannot result in a change of meaning.

[Chris Harrison]

I would also refer them to RONR pp. 106-108 regarding the use of a preamble.

[Rev Ed]

A preamble works but the assembly could also order that a statement to the same effect be entered into the Minutes. For example, "The Board decided to commence repairs to the clubhouse roof earlier than planned due to the recent heavy rainfalls which have compromised the roof." Of course the preamble is still the better place to put this.