% Vote to Pass a Resolution

[VBenz]

I have an unusual problem.  Our AGM is coming up in 4 months, and the Executive is reviewing proposed Resolutions to be presented to the Assembly of Members.

One is problematic.  It states:

Be it resolved that any changes to the ownership of property shared with other conservation entities must be approved By a 75% vote in favor by the Assembly of Members.

Today, that is a decision of the Executive. 

Aside from other issues with this proposed resolution, I feel that if you wish to set a high standard of approval (75% vote in favor), then the same standard should be applied to the proposed resolution as well (75% vote in favor).  The originator of the resolution states that only a simple majority is required.

What is your opinion?

[Alicia Percell, PRP]

Presuming you use Robert's Rules, then at minimum this is a special rule of order, the adoption of which requires either:

a) previous notice AND a two-thirds vote; or

b) affirmative vote from a majority of the entire membership

See RONR (12th ed.) 2:22.

It is a special rule of order because it would override the default in RONR that motions normally require a majority vote (RONR 2:16).  Just calling it a resolution doesn't mean it isn't a special rule of order.  In fact RONR 2:17 indicates that special rules of order are often adopted in the form of resolutions.

[Richard Brown]

Agreeing with Mr. Percell, the proposed "rule" could also be adopted as a bylaw amendment which would almost certainly require a higher vote threshold than a majority vote.

[VBenz]

Thanks for input and the reference.