elections

[Guest rigo]

BYlaws direct that elections will be held during a particular time of the year, also elections will be by ballot. There is no mention as to how an election for a position that has become vacent will be filled. Would you suspect that another election should be held using the same rule or would a simple motion from the floor suffice?

[Kim Goldsworthy]

Bylaws direct that elections will be held during a particular time of the year, also elections will be by ballot.

There is no mention as to how an election for a position that has become vacant will be filled.

Would you suspect that another election should be held using the same rule or would a simple motion from the floor suffice?

Vacancies are filled as they arise. That is, you are not to wait a whole year.

A rule for elections at a certain time is a rule for the natural election cycle or annual meeting. It isn't a rule which prohibits filling vacancies.

Exceptions? Yes. -- Some organizations only meet yearly, and cannot hold meetings any more often. They are stuck, if they have no vacancy-filling rule.

If the vacancy is for an officer position, then notice is required. -- You cannot fill a vacancy in an office spontaneously.

Since you have a rule which says that a ballot is required, then you cannot merely make a motion akin to, "That Col. Mustard fill the vacancy of Grand Poo-Bah," and vote by voice or by hands. You must use a secret ballot. Even if there is only one nominee.