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Got a question? Try Ask the MMA Are there any circumstances when a board member can take action independent of a quorum?
Q: Are there any circumstances under which a member of a city or town board can take action independent of a meeting at which there is a quorum?
A: Under state law, the power to make decisions is vested in the board itself, not in the individuals who are elected to the board. If there is no quorum present, no action can be taken. (A quorum is defined by state law [M.G.L. Ch. 39, Sec. 23a] as “a simple majority of a governmental body unless otherwise defined by constitution, charter, rule or law applicable to such governing body.”) Subcommittees also must have quorums in order to conduct business.
Got a question? Try Ask the MMA Are there any circumstances when a board member can take action independent of a quorum?
Are there any circumstances when a board member can take action independent of a quorum?
Q: Are there any circumstances under which a member of a city or town board can take action independent of a meeting at which there is a quorum?
A: Under state law, the power to make decisions is vested in the board itself, not in the individuals who are elected to the board. If there is no quorum present, no action can be taken. (A quorum is defined by state law [M.G.L. Ch. 39, Sec. 23a] as “a simple majority of a governmental body unless otherwise defined by constitution, charter, rule or law applicable to such governing body.”) Subcommittees also must have quorums in order to conduct business.
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