Procedure for opening a Q and A session prior to a vote?

[Guest Jon D]

My questions revolve around the process to open up a question and answer period with nominees prior to voting during an annual meeting. The nominations were held at a previous meeting and elections for position is at the next. We as a membership body will not have the opportunity to pose questions to the nominees regarding their potential election before the meeting for the vote. Is it out of order to request time prior to the vote to conduct a Q and A with the candidates, and if not, what is the proper procedure?

[George Mervosh]

When the list of nominees is being read again, prior to the election, you can move to suspend the rule and enter into a Q&A with the candidates. If adopted by a 2/3 vote, or unanimous consent you can proceed to add any details regarding it.. I think it's crucial the presiding officer maintain tight controls when it comes to recognizing members to speak or ask questions and the responders, remembering that all questions/debate goes through the chair. You don't want a free-for-all.

[Guest Edgar]

We as a membership body will not have the opportunity to pose questions to the nominees regarding their potential election before the meeting for the vote.

In addition to the process suggested by Mr. Mervosh, you can always question the candidates outside the context of a formal meeting. And don't forget that, without suspending any rules, nominations are debatable.

[Guest Jon D]

Thank you for the responses. I realize that the opportunity is there outside of the meeting, however, due to assembly and time constraints, I think its most effective to do this during the meeting.