Process for non-voting (discussions/consensus-seeking), motions?

[Guest Kelly M]

Are motions required to open discussions that don't require a vote? 

 

Or, should all action based discussions require a vote.  We often have discussions to guide general direction and further development of an agenda item---seeking consensus on the direction, without a formal vote---should this informal "consensus-seeking" be put to a vote instead?  Is there another less formal, but more appropriate process for "reaching consensus"?

[Gary Novosielski]

General Robert had a pretty low opinion of "consensus" seeking, as it often results in weak ineffectual decisions calculated to upset the smallest number, rather than express the deliberate will of the majority.

[Chris Harrison]

Are motions required to open discussions that don't require a vote? 

A motion is a proposal that the assembly take an action so if something isn't going to require action no motion is required.  That being said a meeting usually is to conduct business where each item of business is going to require some form of action so mere discussion without any sort of action being proposed doesn't belong in a meeting.  If you all want to just have a bull session (discussion without any intent to propose action) that should take place before or after the meeting or during a recess.

 

Or, should all action based discussions require a vote.  We often have discussions to guide general direction and further development of an agenda item---seeking consensus on the direction, without a formal vote---should this informal "consensus-seeking" be put to a vote instead?  Is there another less formal, but more appropriate process for "reaching consensus"?

I think Mr. Novosielski's response says it all and you can see where the General discourages the use of consensus on page I (the Roman numeral not the Arabic one).

[Guest Edgar]

Are motions required to open discussions that don't require a vote? 

 

At meetings of "small" boards or committees (where not more than about a dozen members are present), discussion can take place without a formal motion pending and a decision can be reached by "unanimous consent" (unless any member objects). But these "relaxed" rules should not be used to coerce or otherwise intimidate dissenting members into agreement.

 

See pp. 487-488.