Re: [registrars] Proxies at Montreal RC meeting.

[Jim Archer <jarcher@registrationtek.com>]

Hi Bob...

--On Friday, June 20, 2003 12:11 PM -0700 "Robert F. Connelly" 
<rconnell@psi-japan.com> wrote:

> Rick has pointed out that the by-laws require that votes not be taken at
> our face to face meetings.  However, we *do* take "Straw ballots" at
> meetings.

If the bylaws prohibit voting at the in person meetings, then how can we 
justify taking a "straw ballot" ??  If I understand correctly, the purpose 
of prohibiting voting at these meetings is so that registrars not in 
attendance are not disadvantaged.  In the past, at meetings I have 
attended, we have taken these "straw polls" or whatever they are called 
with the understanding that they would not have any significant meaning, 
but rather were to simply gauge the sentiment of the registrars in 
attendance at that time.   Still, the results of this straw ballot are 
recorded and end up being cited by somebody.

For example, I recall that a straw ballot was taken on WLS at a meeting. 
Later the results were used as evidence that that the resolution adopted by 
the entire constituency (after notice was given and formal voting was 
conducted) was no longer valid.

Regardless of what we choose to call it, if people are raising their hands 
and someone is counting then that's a vote.  If the bylaws prohibit it then 
we should not do it.

For the record, I will be in attendance in Montreal.  I have adopted this 
position in the past, and continue to hold it, regardless of whether or not 
I attend meetings.

Jim