Board approves three new resolution amendments, but puts off vote on M-06

By Josh Davis, Associate Editor

(Feb. 1, 2018) The Ocean Pines Board last Saturday reviewed second readings for four proposed resolution amendments, approving three and deferring one.

Accepted was a housekeeping change to Resolution B-04, changing the wording on meeting agendas from “new business” to “unfinished business,” and a sweeping overhaul of Resolution B-01, governing how all resolutions are reviewed, adopted and stored.

Also approved were significant changes to Resolution C-07, redefining activities of the comprehensive planning committee. Rather than draft a comprehensive plan, the change charges the general manager with developing a comprehensive plan and the committee with supporting the general manager’s efforts.

The board did not approve changes to M-06, governing elections. Instead, the resolution went to the bylaws and resolutions committee for review on Monday and is slated for consideration during an upcoming board meeting.

Elections Committee Chairman Steve Tuttle, on Tuesday, confirmed the bylaws committee “unanimously support the revisions as proposed” in the amendment.

The amendment would require vote totals to be announced immediately after they are tabulated, rather than during the annual meeting one day later, as is the current practice.

Several directors, including Cheryl Jacobs and Tom Herrick, said the board considered and rejected the same premise last year. Both said they would not support it.

“What the committee is asking is basically what the community asks, and that is full transparency,” Director Slobodan Trendic said in response. “The community and the committee and the board, because we change every year, has every right to bring up the topic … in front of the board for discussion. Perhaps next time the outcome might be different.

“What the committee is asking for is really no different from national elections, state and local elections. Results are announced immediately upon being known,” Trendic added. “This is not Oscar night with Price Waterhouse coming with a sealed envelope and a briefcase.”