Legislative action of Council is undertaken by resolution or ordinance. Non-legislative action of Council is by motion.
Introduction of Legislation – Legislation may be introduced by any Council member at any regular or special meeting of Council. Prior to its introduction, the Clerk of Council distributes copies of the legislation to each Council member and the City Manager, files copies in the Office of the Clerk of Council and other public places determined by Council, and publish the title of the legislation with a meeting date notice.
Form of Legislation – Legislation can only contain one subject, clearly expressed by its title.
Public Hearings of Legislation – The procedure for public hearings of legislation is determined by the Council Rules of Order. The public hearing of any legislation takes place no less than seven days following its publication. It can be held separately or in conjunction with a regular or special Council meeting. The public hearing of a resolution is conducted at the time of its introduction. The public hearing of an ordinance is conducted at the next designated meeting following its introduction.
Voting on Legislation – Following the public hearing and discussion by Council, Council may adopt the legislation with or without amendments, reject it or table it. Every City Council member present votes or requests to be excused from voting on proposed legislation. All non-emergency legislation requires four “yes” votes to pass.
Motions – A motion is used to determine policy and procedural matters, conduct elections among and make appointments by Council members.
Resolutions – A resolution is used for any legislation of a temporary, informal or ceremonial nature where practicable. Resolutions are effective upon passage.
Ordinances – An ordinance is used for legislation of a general or permanent nature. Ordinances take effect 30 days following passage.
Emergency Ordinances – The emergency clause waives the 30-day period prior to the legislation taking effect. Emergency legislation requires five “yes” votes to pass.
Effective Dates of Legislation – Unless otherwise provided in the Revised Charter, ordinances become effective thirty days after their adoption or at a later date specified by Council.
Executive Session – An Executive Session (as provided by Ohio Revised Code) must be announced when City Council wishes to adjourn to discuss personnel, legal or land acquisition matters.
