Moderator
Runs the annual and special town/school meeting. Should have a good sense of humor, be good at group process, and have experience following Roberts Rules of Order. 17 V.S.A. ยง2646(1)
The election of a moderator is still the first order of business for
Vermont town meetings held on the first Tuesday of March in
municipalities not using the Australian ballot system for election
of officers. Moderators are essential. Which candidate shall be
elected a selectboard member or what sums the town should vote
for highways are questions that cannot be settled by an "aye" or
"no" vote. A moderator is needed to handle the motions, the
amendments, and the process of deciding. Voters cannot do it
alone.
The job of moderator has never been easy, in large measure
because of the lack of firm rules to follow in the conduct of the
meeting. Moderators have had to punt more often than they
would prefer. Two decades ago the situation improved, in part as
a result of the 1982 legislative act making
Robert's Rules of Order
the basic rules of order for Vermont town meetings.
Learn More. View the
Moderator Guide from the State of Vermont.
Approximate Time Required for this Position:
Time Commitment: Varies with this position.
Is this an elected, appointed or a hired town position?
This is an elected position.
Is this a paid town position?
If you would like to learn more, you can view this Vermont link.
www.legislature.vermont.gov
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