Review by Blair Martin
Published: Tuesday, May 3, 2011
A book recommendation. We all know about Robert's Rules of Order, but few have actually studied its dense and daunting text. In council meetings, it's still important to respect the chairman's and speakers' roles, especially if controversial issues arise and people are competing to speak. But there's a much nicer guide to help you maintain the proprieties. It's called "Democratic Rules of Order," first published in 2000 but recently updated. (The author is right here on the Island.) It's only 72 pages, and takes less than an hour to read. Look it up on Amazon to see other readers' comments, but you can buy it at the Laughing Oyster on 5th Street. I confidently recommend it.