RTM Rules & Ordinances Committee Minutes for 5-19-09
Meeting began at 7:05 p.m. Present: Reps. Sterling, Sullivan, Lambert, Docknevich, Black. Absent: Reps. Bodner, Fowler. Also present: Reps. Reiners and Giardiella.
The following matters were heard:
1. To consider and, if appropriate, approve a request from the Registrars of Voters for the realignment of the voting districts and polling places.
The registrars reported as follows:
They have used up all the money for outside computer consultants. The Town’s IT office is now preparing the maps. Detailed maps have been prepared and all but the map for the 3rd is ready. That should be ready tomorrow. The registrars will leave the maps at Unk DaRos’ office for Bill Clendenen to pick up.
They have contacted the Secretary of State’s Office and Dan Duffy at the Office of Legislative Research. The State does not use written language to describe the border between the 98th and the 102nd. Instead it refers to census maps. This is an interesting idea and we will request the Atty Clendenen consider whether we may do so as well. The registrars are waiting to hear back from Dan Duffy on some issues and will let the committee know when they do.
The registrars remain uncertain what date would work to make the ordinances effective. They are attending a conference and will report back on this issue at our next meeting.
Motion to re-refer by Rep. Sullivan, seconded by Rep. Lambert. All in favor.
2. To consider RTM procedures concerning the presentation of information by the public.
Preliminary discussion of this question. Rep. Reiners and Mr. Cook both addressed the committee on these issues. The following problems/issues with current procedure were raised:
(a) May a citizen’s comments be taken under “communications” at the beginning of the call? What should the procedure be in this regard?
(b) Should there be a codified time limit for presentations by citizens?
(c) Should a distinction be made between informational presentations and statements of opinion by a citizen?
(d) what mechanisms are available to a citizen who wants a matter added to the RTM agenda or referred to committee? What, if anything, bounds the moderator’s ability to refer items to committee or decline to refer them?
These questions were raised and debated. The committee will contact CCM and see what the other towns with RTMs are doing. The Chair requested the Mr. Cook and Rep. Reiners submit written proposals outlining how they would amend the Code.
Motion to re-refer by Rep. Sullivan. Seconded by Rep. Black. All in favor.
3. Any new business to come before the committee.
No new business was presented.
Meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Alinor Sterling
Rules and Ordinances Committee Chair
May 20, 2009
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