At Monday’s council meeting, alderman Bob Thomas passed around copies of what Robert’s Rules of Order decrees regarding rescinding, amending or reconsidering a motion, resolution or ordinance previously adopted. His concern arose after council voted to impose a six-month moratorium on issuing licenses for Bed & Breakfasts in all residential zones in the city. At the next meeting, alderman James DeVito clarified that the intent of the moratorium was to prevent issuance of new licenses, but council took no action.
Thomas pointed out council did not follow Robert’s Rules of Order in this instance. Mayor Butch Berry agreed that proper procedure had not been followed, but City Attorney Weaver said what council did was okay. Council, if it so desired, could still follow what the procedure calls for to add the word “new,” but the intent was already clarified.
City Clerk/Treasurer Ann Armstrong said clarification was important for the public. She urged aldermen to read meeting minutes carefully and let her know if corrections are necessary. Thomas responded he had no problem with the minutes, but with failure to abide by agreed upon procedure.
Other items
- Berry announced there had been one bid for the purchase of the White Street fire station. It had come from Dick Titus and it was for $51,500. McClung moved to accept the bid, and vote to approve was unanimous.
- Council approved Resolution 686, a 2015 budget clean-up resolution.
- Because the non-discrimination ordinance for the city of Fayetteville is being challenged, council voted for Weaver to draft a resolution showing support for Fayetteville in its effort to embrace diversity.
- Berry announced he had chosen Nick Samac to be the new Fire Chief. Samac has been serving as the Interim Fire Chief.