ABSTRACT
The most accepted set of procedural rules, Robert’s Rules of Order , is used at public meetings throughout the country and beyond. The ability of each member of a local government body to fully participate in meetings is enabled, or certainly enhanced, by having a fundamental understanding of the rules of procedure used by the respective body. Rules of procedure exist for what is essentially a positive purpose – to provide order and avoid chaos. A basic familiarity can make meetings more enjoyable and efficient, and minimizes the prospect of maneuvered consequences. Each public body has a person who has been elected or appointed to serve as the presiding officer, or chair, at meetings. The precise nature of public comment will usually be influenced by the state’s open meetings sunshine law, which may establish the “right” of members of the public to address the public body at some point during the open meeting.
