Board of Selectmen ~ Policy Adoption Procedure

5/9/2007

Except for policy actions to be taken on emergency measures, the Henniker Board of Selectmen shall adhere to the following procedure in considering and adopting policy proposals to ensure that they are well examined before final action:

1.      First reading:  The proposed policy shall be presented as a discussion item at the first meeting with an opportunity for questions of clarification and directions regarding changes to the policy. The first reading will be followed by the public announcement, publication and distribution of the proposal to interested parties. 

2.      Second reading:  The proposed policy shall be presented as a discussion item at the second meeting, There will be an opportunity offered to concerned groups or individuals to react to the policy proposal. Amendments may be proposed and acted upon at this time.

3.      Third reading:  The proposed policy shall be presented for formal consideration at the third meeting and for action at the pleasure of the Board of Selectmen.

4.      Extended reading(s):  The Board of Selectmen may direct that policies be discussed at more than three meetings, or tabled until a future time (definite or indefinite).

5.      Emergencies:  Under unusual circumstances, the Board may temporarily approve a policy to meet emergency conditions; however, the above procedure is required before the policy shall be considered permanent.

6.      Publication:  Policies and amendments adopted by the Board shall be attached to and made a part of the minutes of the meeting at which they are adopted and shall also be included in the policy manual of the Board of Selectmen marked with the date of adoption and/or amendment.

7.      Effective Date:            Policies and amendments to policies shall be effective immediately upon adoption unless a specific effective date is provided in the adopted resolution.